Holiday Reading

Dear friends

One of the joys of time off in our contemporary culture is being able to “unplug” from the online world where it interfaces with “work”. The instant availability, and the expectation of such by consumers and clients, add a layer of pressure to life that was unknown even twenty years ago. Sometimes, for our sanity’s sake, it is good to leave the phone at home, to shut down the computer, turn off the news and head for the hills, or the waves. Being away from it all (whatever your particular “it” may be) is important to regain a sense of perspective. Big and often intractable problems of the kind that one can do nothing about are monster stressors when viewed from close up. Taken at a distance, however, they can be better grasped for what they are. They may still be large and ugly after the holiday, but somehow are now in their place.

The gift of time that holiday provides also enables a chance for a rest, as well as a rebalancing. This too is essential for healthy perspective, not just for problem solving, but for recognising opportunities, and discerning God’s hand. “Be still and know that I am God,” says the Lord (Psalm 46:10) The verse continues “I will be exalted in all the earth.” Our cessation of the daily round gives opportunity, not just for self appraisal, but also to look up.

Worship Services for Sunday 25th August

9.30am Holy Communion at St John’s Stoke Row with Canon Kevin Davies

11am Holy Communion at St Peter and Paul, Checkendon with Canon Kevin Davies.

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

The holiday season is also a chance to try something new; and the garden is no exception. Here’s an unusual variety of mint. It is “Korean” – best kept in a pot, as it will spread. A lively mint flavour, with heady liquorice overtones. Great for culinary use, and in cocktails – whether fortified or not. The bees love it, too. If you’d like some seed at the end of the season – do get in touch! It is an easy and forgiving plant to grow.

In your prayers, please remember the many thousands of people who will be travelling to Reading for the Festival this coming weekend, for all the musicians and artists performing and the many hundreds of workers and volunteers who will be making sure the even runs smoothly and safely. Pray too for those in the Reading churches who will be on site in ministry teams, offering a listening ear and a helping hand. Music has the power to change lives, to inspire, to comfort, to challenge, and to heal.

May the Lord, the giver of all good gifts, be with you all.

Your Rector, Canon Kevin.