FROM THE VICAR

My dear People,

What a wonderful amount of berries there are this autumn, especially holly! These can be seen in several hedges along the Street and even on the self-planted tree on the Ruck Tomb possibly for the first time. When walking on Queensdown last week I came upon a most striking group of hips, haws, and blackberries against a background of beech. The sight made me stop and look. I see without any doubt whatsoever the hand of God in the order and beauty of the natural life around us. Then the next day I was standing in the yard at Sweepstakes Farm; around me the usual scene hens pecking among the bales, various boxes, machinery and, specially noticeable, two combines, silent and under cover, their work completed for another year. Another cause for deep thankfulness. I do not think any of us say thank you to God often enough.

I know from personal experience what a struggle it is to persuade children to say thank you in the course of their daily routine. It is important that we should do this. The old saying is still true that "manners maketh man". But this important social custom can go deeper, if accompanied by good teaching. From this habit can stem a deeper attitude to the whole of life one of constant thankfulness to our Creator. I am quite, sure that such an attitude always means a happier and fuller life.

Next Sunday is our Harvest Thanksgiving. We have the privilege of the Bishop of Dover spending the week-end in our parish, and celebrating the Holy Communion and preaching at Mattins. I hope you will all be present at some service to express thanks to a bountiful Creator.

Your sincere friend and Vicar,

JOHN GREEN.

HARVEST FESTIVAL

Sunday, 8th October

8.00 a.m. Holy Communion.

11.00 a.m. Mattins and Sermon (including a procession of offering of harvest gifts by children).

6.30 p.m. Evensong.