FROM THE METHODIST MINISTER

Dear Friends,

Holidays! With the coming of summer, I expect the thoughts of most of us are turning towards our holidays, where we're going to and what we're going to do. We look forward to them, and talk about them as if they're going to give us rest and refreshment. In fact, whatever our plans, holidays usually mean a lot of energy to be expended, and lot more work, both before we go and after we come back, as well as actually on the holiday. Yet, somehow, despite all the work and despite all the other frustrations that generally accompany holidays, in fact most of us still thoroughly enjoy them, and return to our normal routine reinvigorated and refreshed. Of course, the reason is just that it does take us away from our normal pattern of living, gives us it change, that restores us to ourselves. There's nothing like a change to give us a new zest of life. If only we could accept the changes that take place in our way of life and our environment, as readily as we accept the necessity of a holiday! Most of us don't like too many changes in our way of life; we prefer the tried and familiar things, and we're tempted to resist change just because it is change, rather, than for any more worthy reason. Many changes are taking place at this very time in the Methodist Church and in the Church of England. Let us be careful that we don't resist them just because they are changes, but rather that we ask whether they are good for the church and for the world. Some changes may be as refreshing and as reinvigorating as we we all hope our summer holiday is going to be!

Yours sincerely,

DENIS GARDINER.

PARISH NOTES

Welcome

To Dr. and Mrs. Montgomerie and their daughter, who have recently come from Gillingham to live at Green Roof, opposite the Post Office; also to Mr. and Mrs. Ingle, who have come next door at Acorn Cottage, and to Mr. and Mrs. Kinslow and Jane and Diane, who have come from Greatstone to live in the third new house there, called Barley Field. Other newcomers are Mr. and Mrs. Beecham, at Russet House, in Munn's Lane, who previously lived at Otterham Quay. We offer them all a very warm welcome and hope they will soon feel part of our village community.

Quick Recovery

Has been made by Mrs. Renee Allen after her operation. We are delighted to see her home so soon, and are also to report that Mrs. Bentley is now home again after some six weeks in the Medway Hospital.

Christian Aid

Week will be reported on fully in next month's issue.

J.H.G.-W.G.