HARTLIP PARISH MAGAZINE.

OCTOBER, 1915.

Midhurst, Sussex.

Dear Friends,

My letter last month was written rather late, having to be left till we were on our holiday: this time it is earlier, just before we return home, which will be on the same day of the month as our departure, viz., the 24th. We have had exceptionally good weather, and I trust the benefit will be lasting: for Parish Work in the 20th century is most exacting. So many people expect to be done what THEY THINK is THE THING; now, seeing that everybody thinks differently on most subjects, it is quite evident that a parish priest is often expected to do the IMPOSSIBLE, viz., to please everybody in the parish. Therefore, you see how very trying his position often is, regardless of the time and thought expended.

After due consideration of how best to obscure the lights in the Church, in accordance with the rigid official regulations, Mr. Denson and I decided that the only safe course was to cover over the windows externally, with a material which would probably withstand the rain, the wind, and the sun. We also secured a suitable material for the purpose, and had it done forthwith. Unfortunately the Church is in darkness all day, and may seem gloomy in the mornings, neccessitating a larger consumption of oil, but what is all this in comparison with safety, and being able to continue our evening Services, and so prevent any interruption in our duty and privilege of public worship! Some Vicars envy me, in being able to accomplish this, for one writes saying, "We have to shield our Church windows . . . on passing I noticed all yours were very neatly done. Will you tell me particulars, cost," etc., etc. This is not the only enquiry of the same kind. Of course, if our windows were not covered there could be no Wednesday Intercession at 7.30 nor Sunday evening Service at 6.30, and experience has proved that 3 p.m. is not a success. Personal inclination would say, "Have a 3 o'clock Service with a quiet evening to oneself." But one, of course, sacrifices this for the general good.

Mr. and Mrs. Lendrum have enjoyed their stay in the Vicarage very much, and some of you have been most kind to them. They return to their home after

a happy visit to Kent, with many pleasant recollections of Hartlip and our beautiful little Church.

My application to the Kent Education Committee for a Woodwork and Lace Class was declined on the score of economy, but may be granted next year. Indeed, they have decided to abandon for the present all classes in the subject of Lacemaking, and the number of classes for Woodwork - they inform me - is strictly limited, and only granted where there is a prospect of a successful session. This may possibly apply to the class for Poultry also.

The following have been awarded First Class Certificates for attendance at the Class and examination in Woodwork during the session 1914-15:- Albert Boakes, William Cryer, William G. Kitchingham, Richard J. Ongley, and Jack Clout. This class - not without a certain amount of persuasion and canvassing - has been a must successful one from the very beginning, and it is with great regret that I have to announce that it must be in abeyance for the coming winter season. But "war" knows no law, therefore we comply, and look forward in hope to better days.

Your faithful friend and Pastor,

J. S. McMILLAN.

OFFERTORIES IN AUGUST.
£s.d.
Aug.1-Sunday School Fund1116
"4-Belgian Food Fund0100
"8-Church Expenses113
"11-Belgian Food Fund074
"15-Sick and Poor158
"18-Belgian Food Fund0511
"22-Church Expenses0164
"25-Belgian Food Fund031
"29-Organ and Choir Fund0156
CALENDAR.
Intercession Service, Wednesday at 7.30 p.m.
Oct.18-St. Luke. Holy Communion, 10.30 a.m.
"28-SS. Simon and Jude. Holy Communion, 10.30 a.m.