FROM THE VICAR

My dear People,

Focus is to some extent on our Church Primary School this month. Two functions are specially mentioned in the Diary, at which anyone is very welcome - the Open Day and annual Leavers' service. What about booking those dates in your diary now? The parish is very fortunate. We have an endowed school which may also be the oldest village school in the country. Our practical interest is one of the ways in which we can show our pride and gratitude. The leavers especially need our prayers and moral support as they go out to larger schools in the wider community.

If you who read this are a native of Hartlip, where is your Mary Gibbon bible? Is it hidden away, as good as new, in a drawer or is it out on the bookcase, available for immediate use and showing signs of wear? I hope it is the latter. I am sure Mary Gibbon meant it to be this way. The Bible teaches us about human nature as no other book in the world. The Bible also teaches us about God and how He works through mankind. In addition, if we are patient and prayerful, the Bible reveals God's purposes for ourselves. Without any doubt, regular reading brings a quiet wisdom and an understanding of life that are unequalled and priceless. In any case let your bible be to hand, ready to answer any query from the children and for you to read when you have a few minutes quiet and alone or when worried or unhappy.

On a personal note, it is still uncertain when I shall be moving to Sandhurst. Details of work to be done at the rectory have yet to be decided by the Diocese. The end of September seems, therefore, more likely. In the meantime I am very glad to have a little longer with you.

Your sincere friend and Vicar,

JOHN GREEN.