Give thanks

Dear friends,

At the beginning of this new day, imagine a barrier across the road. What is being asked of you that you may proceed? Perhaps you are thinking of a holiday in France, and need to check if your passport is in date. Or you are wondering what the new EU border arrangements will be. Fingerprints? Weight? DNA sample? Perhaps the barrier is for goods, trade, employment, or the right visa? Do you have enough money, enough credentials, enough papers to be allowed through?

No, none of the above. At the beginning of each day, the hurdle we face is to do with our bearing. As well as meaning “the direction of travel as the compass points” this can also mean “an inner disposition or attitude.” Is our “bearing” today one of gratitude and thanksgiving? You’ll find the day brighter if you are able to give thanks, even when obstacles confront.

Thank God for his love and help, and for his gifts to you. They are more than the grains of sand. Say “thank you”, and you’ll find you are waved through.

Worship Services for Sunday 18th May 2025

9.30am Informal Worship at St John’s Stoke Row with Mr Peter Ferguson

11am Family Service at St Peter and Paul, Checkendon with Canon Kevin Davies. A friendly all age service of Thanksgiving, with the music group, and refreshments.

Midweek zoom service: Wednesday Evensong at 5.00pm  410 935 129

Sunday 18th May: Church Thanksgiving Lunch in Checkendon Village Hall, from 12.30pm. Guest Speaker: Mr Joshua Townson.

Tuesday 20th May. Checkendon Church Council meeting, in church, 8pm

A Gaelic Prayer for the morning

Thanks be to God, who brought me from yesterday

To the beginning of today;

Everlasting joy to earn for my soul.

Thanks be to God, who wants my good;

Who gives me peace.

My thoughts, my words, my deeds, my desires,

I dedicate to you;

And I ask you most humbly to keep me from offence;

Shield me this day, for the sake of your wounds,

And your gift of grace.

(translated by Alex Carmichael)

Thank you all, for your love and care for your churches, and your gifts to one another, and to God.

your Rector, Canon Kevin.