Upper Itchen Benefice

30th June 2022

NOTICES FOR THIS WEEK

EVENTS

Sunday 10^th July – Kilmeston Family Worship at 11am followed by celebrations to mark 250^th Anniversary of Rebuilding of the Church.

Sunday 17^th July – Holy Communion at Cheriton will be presided over by Canon Phil Collins.

Advance notice of the Rectory Open Garden on Saturday 6^th August from 2pm to 4:30pm.

4th March 2022

The War in Ukraine

As the heart-breaking news of war in Ukraine becomes more horrific every day, we rightly ask ourselves “what can I do to help”? In a seemingly hardened world, thank you for your sensitivity towards the hurt and harm of others; for laying oneself open to love another person is the first victory.

Read Scripture

Jesus said “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” John 14.27

For in [Jesus] all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross. Colossians 1.19-20

Jesus said “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you.” John 14.16-17

Pray to God

Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

O ALMIGHTY God, King of all kings, and Governor of all things, whose power no creature is able to resist, to whom it belongeth justly to punish sinners, and to be merciful to them that truly repent: Save and deliver us, we humbly beseech thee, from the hands of our enemies; abate their pride, asswage their malice, and confound their devices; that we, being armed with thy defence, may be preserved evermore from all perils, to glorify thee, who art the only giver of all victory; through the merits of thy only Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Act in Power

1. Examine your own intentions. Repent of any prejudice or selfishness that distorts your relationships with others, especially those in peril or debt. And receive God’s liberating forgiveness.
2. Intercede for the voiceless by lobbying our government. Consider writing to your MP (https://www.flickdrummond.com/).
3. Use your resources ethically. Ensure your own personal investments and business partnerships do not support warmongering nations.
4. Reach out to Eastern European citizens who may be friends, colleagues, or staff. Listen to what they want to say. Celebrate their cultures, and make them welcome.
5. Donate to the Disasters Emergency Committee Appeal for Ukraine (https://www.dec.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal)

COVID19 Risk Assessment

Every parish of the benefice has conducted a COVID19 Risk Assessment. Good ventilation via open doors and/or windows, and being sensibly careful about one another, remain at the heart of our approach. In short, singing by congregations is permitted; facemasks are not mandatory; and the common cup may be offered (reception in one kind has always been full, valid, and efficacious). Every Church building is now open every day for private prayer. For full details, please contact your Churchwardens.

Revd. Christopher (Rector)