Dear Friends,

Rob and I have been completely overwhelmed by all the messages and cards wishing us well during the last month.

I was extremely angry to be told that I had a local recurrence of cancer, and even more fed up when I realized that I should need more chemotherapy. There seems to be so much to do in the parish and I am very much enjoying doing it. I am not a very patient patient – I want to get on!

However, life is not always easy and I am having to learn all over again the grace of being patient and the privilege of being looked after, cared for and ministered to. The steady stream of cards and flowers, home-baked and other goodies, garden produce and fresh eggs has been a joy. It has turned the Easter season into a huge Christmas!

The real joy, however, has been the way that the Church community has responded not only to one upset but also to two! I had just arrived home from hospital when we were telephoned and told of Enid’s accident. ‘But don’t worry,’ they said, ‘We’ve got it all sorted out’ – and so they had. It is a sign of a Church in good heart when the congregation can take charge and keep things going – and I am proud to be part of it. My thanks to all the musicians, the Churchwardens and all my colleagues who have kept up ‘service as normal’

As I write, I have just had the first of eight doses of chemo, mercifully it was not as disastrous as the first dose last time round – I feel very tired but human! I am hoping to be able to do some services when I have established a pattern, but that is for the future. In the meantime, I thank you for all your prayers and support. I know that prayer works and I feel its strength. I continue to remember you too.

Rob joins me in sending thanks and love to you all,

Jo

All who care for and minister to the sick

The world situation, especially remembering the people of Iraq

Our parish, for its continued growth.

Last month's coffee morning raised £259 towards church funds. A big thank you to Dawn Riddle for hosting the event and to everyone who helped with and supported it, in spite of the weather!

Little Lights will meet again on Monday 7^th June and Monday 5^th July both at 2:30 pm in Church. The annual swim and picnic is planned for Monday 2^nd August, 3 to 5 pm.

It is always helpful to have other adults at our services to help out with the youngsters and to support the Little Lights group in our work with the children. Please feel welcome to join us when you can. Thank you, Sarah Beecham.

Our next meeting is on Thursday 17^th June - a visit to the butterfly farm at Wilden. More details, if required, from Betty Hewett.

the Village Party on Saturday 26^th June at The Chantry House. The fun starts at 12 noon and continues until 5 pm. Barbecue, Stalls, Games, Bar etc. etc.

All proceeds to FAST.