Eunice’s letter for July 2010
Dear Friends
There’s something quite wonderful when after a wedding, the bells ring out at St Mary’s Church. I hope the neighbours opposite are happy with the sound of our bells because the joy and happiness of a couple just married is expressed so clearly by their sound. The bells tell the villagers that a special spiritual event is completed; promises made and pledges given - and what a way to do it! The wedding season is now upon us and the bells will tell us so.
Campanology is a great hobby and a good deal of skill and commitment is needed for it. I am reminded that the blue bell-like flower, Campanula, takes its name from the art of bell-ringing. At St Mary’s Church we have eight bells and knowing just when it is time to pull each rope comes only with practice. A number of people have spoken to me about their interest in learning to ring, but so far, only one or two have begun. Our bell-ringers are a friendly bunch who will be only too ready to pass on their skill to would-be ringers, young or not so young. Why not pop along to see what happens in our tower on practice night, Mondays from 7.30 - 9.00pm? Also, have a look on our website www.frenshamchurches.org.uk and learn more about bell ringing.
The Centenary celebrations went well. On Dockenfield Day (5th June) many visitors came to see the display in the Church. I am pleased to report that the Sung Eucharist at the Good Shepherd on 6th June presided over by Bishop Ian was a wonderful occasion. On both days there were past residents of Dockenfield present - some of whom had travelled from New Zealand, Australia, USA, Canada and Norway, as well as from other parts of the UK. Mr John Chuter and members of his family had front row seats and it was such a joy to meet those who remembered so clearly the origins of the little Church of the Good Shepherd. The church was full on Sunday, the sun shone, and the picnic after the service had a great community feel to it. A big ‘thank-you’ to all those who spent so much time organising these events. Look out for further events after the summer holidays.
I wish everyone really good restful holidays, particularly those who work and travel long distances each day. May we all be kept safe on our journeys and come back refreshed.
God bless you.