We are pleased to announce today, Sunday 21st May 2023 that, The Reverend Jaimee Summers, presently Curate, Benefice of Epping District (All Saints) (St John the Baptist), has been appointed Vicar of St John the Evangelist, Caterham Valley, subject to completion of the necessary procedures.Further details, including the date of the Licensing service, will follow in due course.
Rogation Sunday – traditionally this is when we ask for God’s protection of the agriculture industry, livestock, and crops. The tradition involves walking the boundaries of the parish – which is called “beating the bounds” – praying and asking for God‘s blessing for the well-being of that particular community.The walkers from St John's were following a carefully planned route starting with the ascent of Church Hill, then south along the valley to Caterham School.Striking south again, the party made our way via a muddy path to the View Point where lunch was taken and supplied, very kindly, to one foolish person who was ill prepared for the journey.Heading east along the North Downs Way, a boundary marker was found and duly given a small beating. Crossing the A22 was complicated by having to give way to the runners heading in the opposite direction.Climbing back up onto the downs was a testing time, though much mutual encouragement was given. Our sixth prayer location was deep in bucolic uplands and was followed by a respectful passage through a large herd of cows (or bulls with udders).It was all downhill to the Wapses Lodge roundabout, thankfully, and after a trek along Stafford Road, it just remained to pray in front of the north entrance porch of the church.
St John's service on the 7 May 2023 felt to me like the perfect reflection of the previous day's events. An expectant congregation gathered and were not disappointed by the familiar, by the unique and by the message. The church was resplendent in red, white and blue, the refreshments were very welcome (nice bit of bubbly) and the cakes delicious.Rev Catherine Dawkins led the service magnificently and we're very grateful to her. There is an air of new beginnings around St John's.A flavour of the service is available in the video 6 minute St John's Coronation reflection service.
The Church of St John the Evangelist in Caterham Valley, is looking ‘Happy & Glorious’ in the bright sunshine; ready for the Coronation celebrations taking place at the weekend. Thank you to all the volunteers who put up the netting around the arch and the flowers in the the church grounds. Do come along and have a look.
