News from Thelveton with Frenze Spring 2024
As I write, the aconites are fading and the snowdrops are coming into bloom. By the time you read this there will probably be drifts of daffodils, followed by the bluebells. The churchyard is a beautiful place. Even during the winter months there is still a sense of peace, a carpet of acorns and beechnuts on the path, conkers and fir cones galore in the grass, and the leafless trees making dramatic shapes in the sky. As spring brings the trees into leaf there are beautiful calm days when sitting in the churchyard is a delight. There are also days when a keen wind whistles across the open space and the seat in the south east corner by the porch is the only place out of the wind.
The changing seasons are always a delight outside, but inside the seasons also change. The Advent season saw a purple frontal on the altar, and the gradual emerging of the decorations to tell the story of Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem. The Carol Service in December was a joyous occasion, with everyone who wanted one taking home an angel for their own Christmas tree.
The birth of Jesus and the coming of the kings is marked with a white frontal, but we are now back in purple for a few weeks during Lent as we tell the story of Jesus’ life, his betrayal and his death. At Eastertide we will be back in white for the joy of the resurrection. Our Easter communion this year is at 11am on Easter Sunday.
Sadly at the moment the only time the church is open for people to follow the story is on Wednesdays from 10am to 4pm, and on Sunday morning for a service. We would love it to be open more often, and wonder if there is anyone close by who would be able to take a share in unlocking and locking the church? If you are willing to help perhaps you could get in touch with me on 01379 740042.
Frenze church is usually open every day of the year, and kept beautifully clean and tidy, a huge Thank You to the loyal volunteers who do a wonderful job. If you visit, please remember to sign the book as funding from the Churches Conservation Trust is reliant on the number of visitors. A small donation in the wall safe is also very welcome, and goes directly towards the upkeep of the church.
I wish you all a joyous Eastertide.
Gale