As an end of year reflection have you considered what you have achieved this year, in particular in your life of faith? It is worth thinking about, not least as a basis for thanksgiving as the ‘natural year’ comes to a close. Think too about what we have achieved together as a parish church. Just to begin your thinking I shall offer a few brief thoughts below. It is not an exhaustive list, but a foundation. It is not in any particular order.

Over the course of 2025…

Prayers have been offered.

Our prayers have deepened our connection with God as we have asked for peace, good governance in the world and healing for many in distress and difficulty. The result of prayer sincerely offered is that the devil flees – his grasp on mankind is loosened by the power of the cross which we invoke.

Mass has been celebrated.

The Holy Trinity has been honoured in the offering of the ‘one true, pure, immortal sacrifice’, angels have rejoiced and sinners have received pardon. Through it the bonds of our fellowship have been deepened.

Pastoral care has been offered.

The sick and the bereaved have been visited. The lost and the wandering have been sought and the seeker has been welcomed.

Teaching has been undertaken, not least in the context of preparation of candidates for confirmation.

Relationships with those of other faiths have been strengthened and neighbours have been encouraged, all to the good of the community and the realm.

Other parishes have been supported including our sister parishes in the Society under the Patronage of St. Wilfrid and St. Hilda, other parishes through the Additional Curates Society, St. James’s, Bushey and other parishes in the deanery with their schools.

Pilgrimage has been made to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham in the company of Holy Cross, Marsh Farm and St. Martin’s, Bedford.

Funds have been collected and raised in order to support the ministry in the parish. The church, the hall, the vicarage and the parish priest have all been funded and the ministry of the wider church in the diocese has not been neglected. This is a very significant mark of commitment on the part of you all. Thank you for your generosity and support in so many ways.

Schools have received ministry.

School assemblies have introduced children to significant times in the Church’s calendar like Advent, Christmas and Easter. Visits to St. Peter’s have introduced broader Christian themes and allowed children to explore and ask questions.

Fun has been had!

The Over 60’s Club always have fun and enjoy each other’s company. Darts evenings, the Summer picnic and the Quiz Night have been great social occasions.

Looking to 2026, keep up the good work! I very much look forward to your company and continued support. The faith is proclaimed and shared and another confirmation is anticipated as people grow in faith. Above all keep up your commitment to prayer and to attendance at divine service. Through these things God is glorified and our future as a parish church is secured.

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