Dear Friends
The Old Crown reopens
The Old Crown is a beautiful building. It has therefore been good to see it brought back to life and looking great. It opened again last Thursday and we were invited to be present. My thanks to Barbara McDonald for attending on our behalf and also for the above photo which shows the chairman of the BRA about to cut the ribbon. The General Manager, Head Chef and the boss of Heartwood Inns are to his side.
Community: How can we live together in love?
This Sunday, as we continue our series of sermons from the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans, we’ll see how he urges Christians to practise generous tolerance, avoiding contempt or judgment in disputable matters. Please do take time to read Paul’s letter, in particular chapters 13 and 14 which provides the wider context for this Sunday’s sermon. If you happen to miss a Sunday in church, a recording of the sermon from the previous Sunday 10 o’clock service is available online along with the Bible readings, intercessions and any special items.
Bringing the Good News to bear in response to the needs and concerns of our community (Church Development Plan Priority 2)
The third Specific Action Point of Priority 2 of our Church Development Plan is “To develop a regular programme of activities using the church building which engage the community.” Concerning progress to date, Suzie Jenkins writes, “Our lovely reordered church building presents a fantastic opportunity to put on a range of events which appeal both to our church family and the wider community. As we look ahead to 2026, our plan is to provide comprehensive information on what those who organise an event need to know. We also have ideas about the types of events which we'd like to offer. Would you be willing to take the lead on organising one event? If so, I'd love to hear from you.”
Thank you, Lord, for Sheila
Many in our church family knew Sheila Staff. Sheila died this morning at 11.45am with Terry, as well as their daughter Cathy and granddaughter Jenny, present. Although Sheila's illness means that we may not have seen her for quite some time, she will be fondly remembered as an warm and active member of both our church and the Mothers' Union. Let's be praying for Terry and his family at this time.
Christmas is coming!
As the nights are drawing in, the thoughts of Helen and the choir are turning to their preparations for the Service of Lessons and Carols on Sunday 21 December. After the success of last year, they would like to again extend an invitation to congregation members to sing with them for this event. Whether you sang in a choir at school or simply love to sing, this is a wonderful opportunity to get involved in music-making in the church and to have some fun. All are welcome, and no long-term commitment is expected. If you would like to join, please email Helen Turner: helen.turner@stnicolasbookham.org.uk or just turn up at 7:45pm on Thursday 6 November when they will begin their rehearsals for Christmas.
Thank you from Celeste
Celeste, our former Families and Children’s Minister, has written: “We wanted to say thank you very much for your generous gift, we put it towards tickets to travel and visit my sister and nieces in the States. We haven’t seen them in two years and we miss them very much. We also miss all of you at St Nicolas and think of you often. May God continue to bless you abundantly. Love Celeste, Pablo, Abril and Mia.” Let’s continue to hold Celeste in prayer as she seeks God’s leading for her future.
An encouragement and reminder from Bishop Andrew
The Leatherhead Deanery clergy had the privilege of meeting with Bishop Andrew today. In addition, he has just written to all clergy in the diocese. Amongst the things he wished to encourage us in are to keep on including a prayer of confession and absolution as well as an authorised Creed in our services (I think we do pretty well there!), and also the need to be courteous in our dealings with each other.
Enjoy breakfast and good company this Saturday
There is not one but two opportunities to enjoy breakfast and conversation this Saturday. The monthly Barnabas Breakfast for men takes place in the Pastoral Centre 8.30-9.30am. For this month only, please let David Wall (dandswall@btopenworld.com) know if you will be attending. Meanwhile, Bloom Breakfast for women takes place 9.00-10.30am in the Church Room. Please let Ali Sangwine (ali.sangwine@stnicolasbookham.org.uk) know if you plan to be present.
Keeping up to date
Our weekly notice sheet is available online (click here) and in church. Thank you, David.
And finally…
I have enjoyed listening to a few podcasts in the Inspired series with Simon Guillebaud. From Hindu Priest to Follower of Jesus with Rahil Patel, for instance, is a fascinating account of Rahil Patel’s journey from leading Hindu priest, teacher and senior leader to Christian faith. A heart-warming reminder that God is at work in his world and of our need to walk closely with Jesus.
Wishing you much joy and peace.
Alan
Alan Jenkins
Rector
