Before I start on the churchy bits, has anyone lost a set of keys on the road between Essendine and Carlby? One looks like an old church key, which is why they came into my possession—a helpful cyclist spotted them and rang to ask if they were mine. Please let me know if they are yours. 

And now on to the mildly churchy bits. 

Carlby church’s photographic 

Competition produced some wonderful entries. Viewers were ask to choose their favourite, a difficult task, as there were so many lovely pictures to choose from. Well done to all who entered, to Pauline and Suzanne (and many nameless others) who worked so hard to make it a success. What struck me was the importance of the church and the countryside to so many people: God’s house and God’s creation. 

Ryhall’s fete was a huge success. The church is very grateful to Nick, Janine, Michelle and their many helpers for such a generous donation (£3083.98) for the day to day running of the church. The fete did so much to raise morale in the village after the Covid-restricted life we have all led and to strengthen the community in which we are privileged to live. 

Now to the more churchy bits. 

During September, the church commemorates a number of those whose example has inspired others. On 21st we celebrate St. Matthew, once a tax collector working for (and probably benefitting from) the Roman occupation of Israel, who responded to the call of Jesus to follow him. In Matthew Jesus saw potential, and that is surely an inspiration to all of us who feel we have little to offer as disciples. Jesus recognised what Matthew could become, just as he recognises what we, too can become. 

We celebrate St Michael and All Angels on 29th, remembering the Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Rafael and the band of Angels serving God in heaven, and watching over us here on earth. 

But September commemorates some unbiblical followers, too: Hildegard of Bingen, a nun who died in 1179 leaving her visions of Heaven for us to read and her music which is still sung today. 

On 27th We remember Vincent de Paul, who died in 1662 having devoted his life to serving the very poorest in society, founding the Congregation of the Mission, the Vincentians, a religious order which carries on his work today. 

Lancelot Andrewes, Bishop in succession of Chichester, Ely, and Winchester, who oversaw the translation of the King James Version of the Bible and wrote much of the order for Compline which we still use today. He died in 1626 and is commemorated on the 25th.

We are unlikely to become known in future generations as these people are but we can learn much from their example in bringing in God’s Kingdom on earth. 

And finally, contrary to rumour, no-one is removing any pews from Ryhall church, even if we could do so. Your seat is secure (if not very comfortable.) 

With best wishes 

Jo