FROM THE VICARAGE STUDY

My dear People,

A temporary change of scenery and environment are a tonic for most people. Swaffham is proving no exception as far as my wife and I are concerned. Church and town have received us with the utmost friendliness and there has been much to interest us, here in this attractive market town with its fine 15th century church, and elsewhere. Like Kent, Norfolk has many fine churches, full of the history of the places they serve. Swaffham is typical; its 400 volume library in its Priests' Chamber over the vestry is unique for a parish church, a Coverdale Bible (the earliest English translation) being among its possessions. I am most grateful to clergy and lay-readers for their help with the Services, thus enabling me to go away, and especially to the Rev. Paul Richmond, who in addition kindly agreed to the pastoral care of the parish.

Looking into September, we have almost immediately our venture in the hopfields in aid of Church Funds. This idea has attracted the attention not only of the local Kent papers but also of the London Press. At least one London photographer will be visiting us. It seems even more important, therefore, that we should make a success of it. We are in more senses than one on trial. If you can spare even half a day in the first two weeks of September, please sign up in the Church porch. You will be personally contacted for detailed arrangements. Here is a further opportunity to help maintain and beautify our Parish Church.

Mention of the church, leads me in thought on through September to St. Michael and All Angels' Day, our Patronal Festival. Its falling on a Sunday gives us a special chance to observe it. The Patronal Festival is a happy occasion for the family of the church. It should above all be a day of thanksgiving - for the dedication of our church, for the many generations of faithful worshippers and for its continued presence as a centre of worship and witness. But let us not forget the challenge of a Patronal Festival - that we, too, may be faithful stewards of the rich heritage with which God has entrusted us. There can be few in the parish who are not attached to the church or who have not made use of it in one way or another. Can we not all make a special response on this day by coming to one of the Services in a spirit of thanksgiving and rededication?

Your sincere friend and Vicar,

JOHN GREEN.