The Vicar's Letter, February 1964

Posted on February 3, 1964

My dear People,

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 12th, and we are planning to do two things this year. First, instead of the traditional mid-week services in church it is planned to hold meetings at 7.30 p.m. each Wednesday from February 19th in the Vicarage for prayers and discussion of vital Christian topics, beginning with listening to a short programme on sound radio.

Then on Sunday evenings, beginning on February 16th, I hope to arrange a special course with material provided by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. We would begin with shortened Evensong in church at 6 p.m. and then go over to the National School for the remainder of the programme, which would include film strips, recordings and materials for discussion. The title of the course is Raise the Cross. Its principle subject is Apartheid and its results for our fellow Christians in South Africa. Its aim is to bring a fuller understanding of what is involved in committing ourselves to Jesus Christ.

Lenten resolutions ought to be such as will help us to love and serve God and our fellow men better. One of the best things to give up is the selfish use of our spare time. I suggest to all Church people that they might consider these three:-

1 and 2. To go to Holy Communion and Evensong every Sunday in Lent.
3. To attend the discussion meetings each Wednesday at 7.30 p.m.

The purpose of Lenten resolutions is not to strengthen our willpower but to deepen our communion and fellowship with Christ and to enter into His sufferings. He did so much for us. Can we not do a little more to show our love for him?

Annie Bleaney, who died in hospital on January 12th, was one who loved her Master with true loyalty and devotion. Many will miss her. But we must never regret the dying of those whose faith in Christ assures them of everlasting joy and bliss with Him the other side of death.

Even the most assured of believers is liable at times to moments of doubt and depression. But our job is to hang on faithfully and to assert: "Yea, though He slay me, yet will I put my trust in Him."

God bless you all.

Your friend and Vicar,
PETER GRAHAM.

Source: Parish Magazine, February 1964, Page 4