High Weald Churches 28/02/2025 High Weald Churches 28/02/2025

Newsletter 02-28

Following a very busy week in the benefice, please find a very brief update on church activities below.

This week we held two memorial services at St John the Baptist, which saw over 500 pass through our doors in Penshurst, to mark the lives of Michael Collin and Michael Hill. We continue to hold their families and loved ones in our prayers.

We are also sad to share news of the passing of Lin Lee this week, we pray for James and her family as they mourn. Lin’s funeral details will be shared in due course.

This coming Wednesday will see the start of Lent, and the beginning of a very busy period for services, further details of which are below and on the website.

Finally, please remember to complete and return applications for the benefice electoral roll by 31 March, should you want to be included in the next iteration. The best way to do this is to complete the form online (Click Here) and return via email to the office, however if you don’t have access to a computer these can be obtained and returned via the churchwardens.

In this edition:

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Electoral Roll

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday March 2nd: Sunday Before Lent

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Wednesday March 5th: Ash Wednesday

0915 St Peter’s Church, Fordcombe School Service for Ash Wednesday

1900 St John’s, Penshurst: Holy Communion with the Imposition of Ashes

Sunday March 9th: Lent 1

1000 St Peter’s Fordcombe: Holy Communion

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Matins

Sunday March 16th: Lent 2

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

1600 Forest Church, Penshurst Rectory

Readings and lections for March can be found if you Click Here.

Life Events:

Ø In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Lin Lee in our prayers ahead of her upcoming funeral.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Electoral Roll:

Ø The High Weald Churches electoral roll is now open for applications ahead of the 2025 Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) – Click Here to read the full notice from the Diocese. Please note that every six years the electoral roll must undergo complete revision, which is taking place this year, therefore everyone who would like to be included should fill out and return an application form - Click Here to download. Forms can be printed, or collected from church, and returned to a churchwarden, or filled in electronically and returned via email to the office. The deadline for applications is 31 March, and the roll will be finalised by 14 April ahead of the next APCM.

Learning and growing:

Ø Don’t forget the new National Safeguarding Standards. There is a link to the new leaflet on our website, and you’ll see posters going up in our churches soon. And following the appointment of our new benefice Safeguarding Officer, Wendy Ellis, we now have a contact email established – please direct any safeguarding queries or issues to safeguarding@highwealdchurches.org.uk

Mailing:
Ø If you know anyone who would like to be added to our weekly mailing, do let us know (and similarly let us know if you’d like to come off, though we’d be sad to see you go). If you’d like to contribute to the work of the benefice, you can go to our parish giving page via the www.parishgiving.org.uk website (we’d be very grateful). Alternatively, you can always find it on our benefice website: https://www.highwealdchurches.org.uk/news

High Weald Churches 21/02/2025 High Weald Churches 21/02/2025

Newsletter - 02-21

I do hope this finds you well. For those with school aged children in their care I hope that you have enjoyed the half term break. Although a working week for me, I have been able to take things at a gentler pace.

Last Saturday, it was a joy to meet with twelve of our wedding couples for a wedding preparation event. Couples left having given thought to the Christian understanding of marriage and knowing more about how their wedding service fits together. Although each couple will be seen individually by the priest taking their service, being able to offer some general advice over service content to a collective group offers some time efficiencies later in the year. With twenty weddings this year, please do make all of our visiting couples welcome as they gather to make their qualifying connections and to get to know the church family. We already have a growing list of 2026 couples.

On Sunday more than thirty of us gathered for Forest Church in my rectory garden. Angela Ventin led this love themed service as part of her Bishop’s Certificate qualification. She did a great job! Praying that my lawn may recover soon!

This week, parishioners gathered at The Crematorium to say a fond farewell to Joyce Evans. Joyce has spent her whole 95 years living within a few miles of her birthplace in Penshurst. The service celebrated her love of creation. Next week we shall celebrate the lives of Michael Hill on Tuesday and Michael Collin on Friday. In both cases there are private family services in the morning and much bigger memorial services in St John the Baptist church in the afternoon. For those attending on Tuesday, please park in Penshurst Place and walk through church field if possible. If attending on Friday afternoon, you may wish to park at the Porcupine Pantry and walk to church from there. Both occasions are likely to be very well attended, so do allow plenty of time to park and walk.

With my Area Dean’s hat on: this Saturday morning I shall be leading the Deanery Synod at St John’s, Hildenborough. Our guest speaker is Bishop Jonathan who shall be presenting his diocesan vision for the next ten years. On Sunday, I shall be at Rochester Cathedral for the Collation, Installation & Welcome Service for the two new Archdeacons. Please pray for The Rev Preb Sandra McCalla, as she becomes The Archdeacon of Rochester and for The Rev Nicholas Cornell, who will work locally as the Archdeacon of Tonbridge.

With Easter so late this year, we have two more Sundays before Lent begins. On Ash Wednesday (5th March) there are services with the imposition of ashes at 0915 in St Peter’s (a school led service) and St John the Baptist at 1900. This is a communion service. If you want to receive communion in the daytime, you may want to join our brothers and sister at St Peter and St Paul, Edenbridge. Their service, led by Rev’d David Flagg, begins at 1030.

With every blessing for the week ahead

Lisa

In this edition:

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Electoral Roll

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday February 23rd: 2nd Sunday before Lent

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Matins

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Sunday March 2nd: Sunday Before Lent

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Wednesday March 5th: Ash Wednesday

0915 St Peter’s Church, Fordcombe School Service for Ash Wednesday

1900 St John’s, Penshurst: Holy Communion with the Imposition of Ashes

Sunday March 9th: Lent 1

1000 St Peter’s Fordcombe: Holy Communion

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Matins

Readings and lections for February can be found if you Click Here.

Life Events:

Ø In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Baptisms: We hold Andrea and her family in our prayers following her baptism in February.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved Michael Collin and Michael Hill in our prayers ahead of their upcoming funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Electoral Roll:

Learning and growing:

High Weald Churches 14/02/2025 High Weald Churches 14/02/2025

Newsletter - 02-14

Valentine’s Day Greetings to you all.

This Saturday we welcome many of our wedding couples to a marriage preparation event. During our time together we will talk all things wedding and marriage helping many of our 20+ couples who are preparing to marry in our four churches this year.

Our local schools have just finished school and college for half term. I am sure staff and pupils alike are looking forward to a week away from the pressures of school. If you are going away, we wish you safe travels. We hope that many families will join me in The Rectory Garden in Penshurst for a love themed Forest Church at 4pm on Sunday 16th. Please dress for the weather. It is likely to be muddy and slippery underfoot. Please use suitable footwear. Sunshine is forecast, but by 4pm things are likely to have cooled considerably. There will be a bonfire to keep us warm!

On Thursday afternoon many people gathered to remember with affection the life of Bob Atkins. Next Thursday morning we will say a goodbye to Joyce Evans in a service at The Kent and Sussex Crematorium. In the following week services will be held for Mike Hill (25th) and Mike Collin (28th). Both services are in St John the Baptist Church. We thank God for their lives and hold all who mourn in our prayers.

With every blessing for the week ahead

Lisa

In this edition:

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Electoral Roll

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday February 16th: 3rd Sunday before Lent

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

1600 Forest Church Penshurst Rectory

Sunday February 23rd: 2nd Sunday before Lent

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Matins

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Sunday March 2nd: Sunday Before Lent

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Wednesday March 5th: Ash Wednesday

0915 St Peter’s Church, Fordcombe School Service for Ash Wednesday

1900 St John’s, Penshurst: Holy Communion with the Imposition of Ashes

Readings and lections for February can be found if you Click Here.

Life Events:

Ø In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Baptisms: We hold Andrea and her family in our prayers following her baptism in February.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Joyce Evans, Michael Collin and Michael Hill in our prayers ahead of their upcoming funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Electoral Roll:

Learning and growing:

High Weald Churches 07/02/2025 High Weald Churches 07/02/2025

Newsletter - 02-07

Dear Parishioners

I have had a lovely week in the parish. I so enjoyed baptising Andrea at St Mary’s last Sunday. She was such a sunny infant who charmed several generations of family and friends. Wedding planning has taken up a lot of my time this week and next Saturday many of our wedding couples from across the benefice will be meeting together in Fordcombe for a wedding preparation afternoon.

A spike in the local death rate means that our local funeral directors are incredibly busy at present. We give thanks for their care to all of our families. Locally we have four Penshurst funerals planned. On Thursday 13th, we will say a final goodbye to Bob Atkins as we celebrate his life in a service at 1400 in St John the Baptist Church. On 20th February at 1130, we will celebrate the life of Joyce Evans at The Kent and Sussex Crematorium. On 25th February we will bid farewell to Mike Hill. A private cremation in the morning will be followed in the afternoon by a memorial service in church. I await confirmation of the start time, but it is likely to be around 1400. On 28th February we will celebrate the life of Mike Collin. A private morning service at Poundsbridge will be followed by a memorial service in church at 1430. We thank God for the lives of these four people and hold all of their loved ones in prayer.

This Sunday our 1000 service will be in Fordcombe and I look forward to seeing many of you there. At Chiddingstone, a Matins service will be led by Brian Buck at 1000 at St Luke’s.

With every blessing for the week ahead,

Lisa

In this edition:

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Electoral Roll

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 9 February: 4th Sunday before Lent

1000 St Peter’s Fordcombe: Holy Communion

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Holy Communion

Sunday February 16th: 3rd Sunday before Lent

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

1600 Forest Church Penshurst Rectory

Sunday February 23rd: 2nd Sunday before Lent

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Matins

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Readings and lections for February can be found if you Click Here.

Life Events:

Ø In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Baptisms: We hold Andrea and her family in our prayers following her baptism last Sunday.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Bob Atkins, Joyce Evans, Michael Collin and Michael Hill in our prayers ahead of their upcoming funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Electoral Roll:

Learning and growing:

High Weald Churches 31/01/2025 High Weald Churches 31/01/2025

Newsletter - 01-31

Warm greetings from Penshurst Rectory

A busy week in the parish is behind us and lies ahead. Funerals rather dominate my diary at present. This week we were sad to learn of the deaths of Michael Collin and Michael Hill, both long term residents of Penshurst. Their funerals will be later in the month, and we will confirm the details in next week’s mailing.

As I type the 2023-24 tax return deadline is looming at midnight. I am sure that I was not the only person hurriedly form filling this week! We are in the process of finalising our parish and benefice accounts for 2024 and preparing for our APCM. Every six years we have to revise and renew the electoral roll. The process for our parishes begins today and we ask for you to return your paperwork before the end of March. Although the APCM is not until early May, we would like to have this substantial piece of administration completed as fully as possible before Tabby, our administrator, goes on maternity leave. Tabby has supplied instructions below. Please note that all people who wish to be on the electoral roll must apply afresh using the forms provided. Given we are in the process of making big decisions about our benefice’s future, please do apply to join the roll so that your opinions can be included in any voting that takes place.

Earlier this week I met with fellow Area Deans and with the acting and soon to be Archdeacons of Tonbridge. Archdeacon Elect Nick Cornell will be writing to PCCs very soon to explain the next steps in our pastoral reorganisation consultation. Nick is in the process of leaving his Tunbridge Wells parish, moving house and starting his new job. Please pray for him as he works with us and circa 90 parishes across six deaneries. May we all prayerfully discern God’s will during our discussions in and between the parishes in the benefice.

I wish you a blessed week ahead

Lisa

In this edition:

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Electoral Roll

Ø Learning and growing

Ø Prayer

Services:

Sunday 2 February: Candlemas (The last Sunday of Christmas)

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Sunday 9 February: 4th Sunday before Lent

1000 St Peter’s Fordcombe: Holy Communion

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Holy Communion

Sunday February 16th 3rd Sunday before Lent

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

1600 Forest Church Penshurst Rectory

Readings and lections for February can be found if you Click Here.

Life Events:

Ø In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Baptisms: We hold Andrea and her family in our prayers ahead of her baptism on Sunday.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Bob Atkins, Michael Collin and Michael Hill in our prayers ahead of their upcoming funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Electoral Roll:

Learning and growing:

Prayer:

Ø While discussions are taking place about the Benefice I would like to suggest a few of us meet on the morning of Tuesday February 4th to hold it all in prayer. I’m happy to host. Please do contact me if you would like to come - I’m looking for an equal representation from each church if possible! You can contact me on Barbaramlloyd@gmail.com or 07802 537652

- Barbara Lloyd

Mailing:

Ø If you know anyone who would like to be added to our weekly mailing, do let us know (and similarly let us know if you’d like to come off, though we’d be sad to see you go). If you’d like to contribute to the work of the benefice, you can go to our parish giving page via the www.parishgiving.org.uk website (we’d be very grateful). Alternatively, you can always find it on our benefice website: https://www.highwealdchurches.org.uk/news

High Weald Churches 24/01/2025 High Weald Churches 24/01/2025

Newsletter - 01-24

I hope this e mail finds you all well and coping with the effects of Storm Eowyn. I spoke with Rev’d Lindsay this morning who was following advice and staying home as the winds blew very strongly in Dublin!

It has been a difficult week to watch the news, and my heart was especially moved by the events at the Crown Court in Liverpool. We pray especially for the families of Bebe, Elsie Dot and Alice and all those impacted by the tragedy in Southport last Summer. Such horrors encourage us to hold our own children that bit closer.

On Wednesday I led the funeral for Ada Pickering from Bough Beech and next Wednesday, in Hastings, I will lead the celebration of life for Yvonne Braiden. Many of you will gather on Saturday for a Thanksgiving Service for the life of Jenny Chettle. A truly remarkable lady whose heart for God, deep faith and care for her community was an example to us all. I thank Sally Musson for leading this service in Chiddingstone. With bellringers, choirs and many local groups paying tribute, I am so glad that Jenny will be remembered by the community that loved her so much.

Also on Saturday, I shall be at St Paul’s Cathedral as the duty chaplain. This quarterly duty affords me a day of prayerful contemplation, the chance to lead services in an iconic setting and to meet with people from all over the world. It is a real privilege. On Sunday our 1000 services will be led by Rev’d Canon David Kitley at St Luke’s and Rev’d Kevin Scully at St John the Baptist. I shall be close by, carrying out my Area Dean duties leading both services in Edenbridge.

I pray that you all know God’s love and peace surrounding you in the week ahead.

With every blessing

Lisa

In this edition:

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Ø Prayer

Services:

Sunday 26 January: Epiphany 3

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Holy Communion

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

(Note: No Fordcombe Evening service this month)

Sunday 2 February: Candlemas (The last Sunday of Christmas)

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Sunday 9 February: 4th Sunday before Lent

1000 St Peter’s Fordcombe: Holy Communion

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Holy Communion

Readings and lections for February can be found if you Click Here.

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Baptisms: We hold Louis and his family in our prayers, following his baptism at St Luke’s last week.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Jenny Chettle, Bob Atkins and Yvonne Braiden in our prayers ahead of their upcoming funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Prayer:

Barbara Lloyd

Mailing:

High Weald Churches 17/01/2025 High Weald Churches 17/01/2025

Newsletter - 01-17

Greetings from my rectory in Penshurst,

This is my first mailing of 2025. If I haven’t already said this in person, Happy New Year. Christmas seems a distant memory but I am pleased to report we had over a thousand people through the benefice church doors on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Thank you to everyone who worked to ensure the Advent and Christmas seasons ran smoothly and to all those who attended. Special thanks to Fr Stephen Mitchell and Rev Penny Stephens for leading services in Chiddingstone.

Sadly, the winter season often sees a spike in deaths and this year is no exception. It is an honour to lead the funerals of parishioners and to help families both celebrate the lives and gifts of characters of their loved ones. Thank you for the ways in which you support each other in the community as people work their way through their grief journey. On Wednesday we said a fond farewell to Elaine (Ellie) Mimms at St John the Baptist. On Friday the family of Jenny Chettle met to say goodbye to her at a private service at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium. Jenny’s life will be celebrated by her large circle of friends and family in St Mary’s Church on Saturday 25th January at 1000. My thanks to Sally Musson for leading both of Jenny’s services.

On Wednesday 22nd at 1300 Ada Pickering’s funeral takes place at The Kent and Sussex Crematorium. On Wednesday 29th Yvonne Braiden’s funeral will be held at Hastings Crematorium. Finally, on Thursday February 13th, we shall celebrate the life of Bob Atkins with a thanksgiving service at St John the Baptist in Penshurst.

We hold all bereaved families and friends in prayer.

At the other end of our age group, this Sunday at 1600 there will be a Christingle Service at St John the Baptist Church in Penshurst. Although billed as a Forest Church service, the service will be inside the church, the heating and kettle will be on and all ages are welcome. Christingle services can take any time between Advent and Candlemas and, given there were already nine children’s services before Christmas, it made sense to leave this service for the new year.

Our three benefice schools have been back for two full weeks and are very busy. I would like to offer congratulations to Mrs Haysom and all the staff, volunteers and pupils at Chiddingstone School for their recent OFSTED report. They were inspected in December and the report, published this week, described the school as Outstanding in all areas. The full report can be read here. https://www.chiddingstoneschool.co.uk/inspection-reports-3/

Next week the World Council of Churches celebrates a week of Christian Unity. This is an ecumenical celebration, which encourages different denominations to work together. I finish my mailing this week with a prayer for church unity written by for the Bose Community (An ecumenical community of Nuns and Monks from Italy)

“God our Father, accept our praise and thanksgiving for what already unites Christians in the confession of and witness to Jesus the Lord. Hasten the hour when all churches will recognise each other in the one communion you willed and for which your Son prayed to you in the power of the Holy Spirit. Hear us, you who live and reign now and forever.”

With every blessing for the week ahead

Lisa

In this edition:

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 19 January: Epiphany 2 - Week of prayer for Christian Unity

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

1600 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Forest Church Christingle Service

Sunday 26 January: Epiphany 3

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Holy Communion

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

(Note: No Fordcombe Evening service this month)

Sunday 2 February: Candlemas (The last Sunday of Christmas)

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Baptisms: We hold Louis and his family in our prayers, as they prepare for his baptism in January.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Jenny Chettle, Bob Atkins, Ada Pickering and Yvonne Braiden in our prayers ahead of their upcoming funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Mailing:

High Weald Churches 10/01/2025 High Weald Churches 10/01/2025

Newsletter - 01-10

To our benefice friends,

Please find below notice of a number of upcoming funerals and burials in the benefice, for you to be aware of.

A service will be taking place at St John the Baptist for Elaine Mimms on 15 January at 2pm.

Jenny Chettle’s memorial is to be held at St Mary’s on Saturday 25 January at 10:15. This follows a service for her family at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium on 17 January, if you’d like details to access the livestream do get in touch.

Lisa will also be conducting funerals for Ada Pickering, at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium on Wednesday 22nd January at 1pm, and Yvonne Braiden in Hastings on 29 January. Please get in touch if you’d like further details of Yvonne’s funeral.

Finally, we pray for Maggie and the loved ones of Bob Atkins, and will share his funeral details in due course.

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 12 January: Epiphany 2. The Baptism of Christ

1000 St Peter’s Fordcombe: Holy Communion

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Matins

Sunday 19 January: Epiphany 2. Week of prayer for Christian Unity

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

1600 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Forest Church Christingle Service

Sunday 26 January: Epiphany 3

1000 St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway: Holy Communion

1000 St John the Baptist, Penshurst: Holy Communion

(Note: No Fordcombe Evening service this month)

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Baptisms: We hold Louis and his family in our prayers, as they prepare for his baptism in January.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Jenny Chettle, Bob Atkins, Elaine Mimms, Ada Pickering and Yvonne Braiden in our prayers ahead of their upcoming funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Mailing:

High Weald Churches 20/12/2024 High Weald Churches 20/12/2024

Newsletter - 12-20

Greetings to you all for Penshurst Rectory. After a week of school services with much tinsel, tea towels and enthusiastic carol singing we are on the final run in for Christmas week.

I am delighted that, with Tabby’s help, we have managed to staff two services in each parish between sundown on Christmas eve and lunchtime on Christmas Day. There is a mixture of formal and informal services, which should cater or every taste.

The fun starts at St Peter’s at 1600 with family carols; continues at 1730 service at St Mary’s with carols by candlelight. Thank you to Rev’d Stephen Mitchell for leading this. Please note that ‘midnight’ Holy Communion starts earlier this year at 10pm at St John the Baptist. I very much hope that we can mark midnight in the comfort of our own homes! There will be a quiet communion service at St Peter’s at 0900 on Christmas Day. Rev’d Penny Stephen’s is leading a Holy Communion Service on Christmas Day at St Luke’s at 1030. At St John the Baptist I shall be leading a child- friendly morning service, also at 1030.

Whatever the Christmas season brings you, I hope that there will be time for peaceful contemplation as well as celebration. I am aware that for some this is not an easy time of year. For those bereaved, unwell or carrying emotional, financial or health burdens, life can feel raw and difficult. Please know that you are very much loved by God, and he never leaves your side. As we celebrate the incarnation afresh, I offer this blessing from our Common Worship liturgy:

May the joy of the angels,

the eagerness of the shepherds,

the perseverance of the wise men,

the obedience of Joseph and Mary,

and the peace of the Christ child

be yours this Christmas;

and the blessing of God almighty,

the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,

be among you and remain with you always.

Amen

Rev’d Lisa

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Ø Spirituality and Prayer

Services:

Sunday 22 December: Advent 4

1000 Said Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1800 Nine Lessons and Carols at St John the Baptist

Tuesday 24 December: Christmas Eve

1600 Family Carol Service at St Peter’s, Fordcombe

1730 Carols by Candlelight St Mary the Virgin, Chiddingstone

2200 United Benefice Christmas Night Holy Communion, St John’s
(Please note the earlier start)

Wednesday 25 December: Christmas Day

0900 Said Holy Communion at St Peter’s, Fordcombe

1030 Family Service at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1030 Holy Communion at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Sunday 29 December: First Sunday of Christmas

1000 United Benefice Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: Jack and Celia married last weekend at St Mary’s, and Rebecca and Nicholas are making their final preparations for their upcoming blessing at St John the Baptist, we hold both couples in our prayers.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Jenny Chettle in our prayers this week. For those who would like to attend her funeral, we hope to be able to share details in due course.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Mailing:

Please note that no weekly mailing is planned until the new year. Please keep an eye on our website for the latest information.

High Weald Churches 13/12/2024 High Weald Churches 13/12/2024

Newsletter - 12-13

I begin this week’s newsletter with sad news. Jenny Chettle a long-standing member of the Chiddingstone Churches family died last Friday. We pray for Jenny’s family and friends as they mourn her loss. Jenny was a truly lovely lady. She had a deep faith, lived out in service to others and in a great love for music. She supported charitable, musical and children’s work right across the benefice and was always an encouragement to others. She will be greatly missed. I am not yet aware of funeral arrangements for Jenny, but I will share them here once known.

I enjoyed a few days off at the start of the week. I am very grateful to Rev’d David Kitley for leading the 1000 service in Fordcombe last week. Dibley and I enjoyed some very bracing walks at Camber Sands. It was good to step away from home for a few days. Meanwhile on Monday, Chiddingstone School received ‘The Call’ from OFSTED and were inspected during Tuesday and Wednesday. Hot on the heels of a SIAMS inspection less than a month ago, the school rose to the challenge of the inspection with admirable professionalism. The report will be published early in the new year. Meanwhile, if you would like to read the school’s splendid SIAMS report it is at the foot of this webpage: https://www.chiddingstoneschool.co.uk/inspection-reports-3/

After two very successful Nativity Services in Chiddingstone on Wednesday, there are many school productions and services to come. I shall be at all but one of these. If attending too, I hope you enjoy every minute. See you there!

17th December 1400 Ash Class Nativity at Fordcombe School
18th Dec 1400 KS1 Nativity at St John the Baptist Church, Penshurst
18th Dec 1800 KS2 Carol service at St Mary’s Church, Chiddingstone
19th Dec 0915 KS2 Carols at St John the Baptist Church, Penshurst
19th December 1430 Elm & Oak Nativity at Fordcombe School
20th December 0915 End of Term Service at St Peter’s Church, Fordcombe

There are two meetings this coming week where the expanded PCCs of each parish will meet with Archdeacon Elect Rev’d Nick Cornell. The Chiddingstone PCC will meet at the parish room at St Luke’s on the evening of Thursday 19th December (please speak to your church wardens for details). The PCCs of Penshurst and Fordcombe will meet at 1030 at St John the Baptist Church on Friday 20th. Both meetings will offer an opportunity for Rev’d Nick to explain the pastoral consultation process planned for the benefice in early 2025.

As the Christmas festivities draw near, it may be that you or a loved one would like me to visit so that you may receive Holy Communion at home. Please drop me an email if you would like me to add you to my list of planned visits. I hope to see most people between 22nd and 24th December, but have some availability in the week to come.

I look forward to seeing many of you at the concerts, productions and services in the week ahead.

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Ø Spirituality and Prayer

Services:

Sunday 15 December: Advent 3

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1800 Nine Lessons and Carols at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Sunday 22 December: Advent 4

1000 Said Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1800 Nine Lessons and Carols at St John the Baptist

Tuesday 24 December: Christmas Eve

1600 Family Carol Service at St Peter’s, Fordcombe

1730 Carols by Candlelight St Mary the Virgin, Chiddingstone

2200 United Benefice Christmas Night Holy Communion, St John’s
(Please note the earlier start)

Wednesday 25 December: Christmas Day

0900 Said Holy Communion at St Peter’s, Fordcombe

1030 Family Service at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1030 Morning Service at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Sunday 29 December: First Sunday of Christmas

1000 United Benefice Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We hold Jack and Celia, and Rebecca and Nicholas in our prayers ahead of their weddings in December.

Funerals: We hold the family and loved ones of Jenny Chettle in our prayers this week. For those who would like to attend her funeral, we hope to be able to share details in due course.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Mailing:

Spirituality and Prayer:

Ø Over the next couple of weeks St John’s in Penshurst will host a number of very simple prayer stations to mark the start of Advent. Please do try and visit and engage with them if you can and perhaps pray that they might prove helpful to our visitors too.

High Weald Churches 06/12/2024 High Weald Churches 06/12/2024

Newsletter - 12-06

To our benefice friends,

A brief update for this edition of the newsletter. This week has been a busy one, with funerals for Roger Theobald, Hilary Allen and Sheila Potter taking place across the benefice. We continue to pray for Roger, Hilary and Sheila, along with their loved ones.

Please find upcoming services detailed below, including a breakdown of our Christmas schedule. We do hope to see many of you passing through our doors in the coming weeks as the Christmas programme continues.

Further details are available on the services page of our website.

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Ø Spirituality and Prayer

Services:

Sunday 8 December: Advent 2

1000 Holy Communion at St Peter’s, Fordcombe

1000 Matins at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Sunday 15 December: Advent 3

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1800 Nine Lessons and Carols at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Tuesday 24th Christmas Eve

16.00 Family Carol Service at St Peter’s, Fordcombe

17.30 Carols by Candlelight St Mary the Virgin, Chiddingstone

22.00 United Benefice Christmas Night Holy Communion, St John’s
(Please note the earlier start)

Wednesday 25th Christmas Day

09.00 Said Holy Communion at St Peter’s, Fordcombe

10.30 Family Service at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

10.30 Morning Service at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We hold Jack and Celia, and Rebecca and Nicholas in our prayers ahead of their weddings in December.

Funerals: We hold Hilary Allen, Roger Theobald and Sheila Potter in our prayers, following their funerals this week.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Mailing:

Spirituality and Prayer:

High Weald Churches 29/11/2024 High Weald Churches 29/11/2024

Newsletter - 11-29

Greetings from The Rector:

One of the great joys of leading our benefice is the chance to work in three excellent Church of England primary schools. There are nine school services and productions to choose from in the benefice during Advent this year. If you are watching one of these with your family and friends, I hope you experience much joy. All other things being equal I shall attend seven of the nine listed below. In case you need to put the dates in your diaries:

School services and productions until the end of term

4th Dec 0915 Christingle at St John the Baptist Church, Penshurst
11th Dec 1400 and 1730 EYFS / KS1 Nativity at St Mary’s Church, Chiddingstone
18th December 1300 Christmas Production Fordcombe School
18 Dec 1400 KS1 Nativity at St John the Baptist Church, Penshurst
18th Dec 1800 KS2 Carol service at St Mary’s Church
19th Dec 0915 KS2 Carols at St John the Baptist Church, Penshurst
19th December 1pm Christmas Production Fordcombe School
20th December 0915 End of Term Service at St Peter’s Church

Of course, our schools live out their Christian values all year and as I explained two weeks ago, all church schools are inspected by the Statutory Inspectorate of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS). We await Chiddingstone’s report, which is still being finalised, but Penshurst was able to publish the report on its recent SIAMS inspection a few days ago. Click on the link to read:

https://penshurstschool.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/SIAMS-report-Penshurst-Church-of-England-School-118720-14112024-Final.pdf

Of course, our churches serve the flock at all stages of people’s lives. Following last week’s service for Myra Morris, we have four funerals ahead in the coming days. On Friday St Mary’s Church hosted the funeral of Rhian Palmer. Thank you to the two visiting ministers Lynette and David for leading this service. On Monday 2nd December, Chiddingstone will be saying a final farewell to Roger Theobold. His service is at the Kent and Sussex Crematorium at 1130, with a celebration at the Kentish Horse to follow. I imagine both will be lively!

On Thursday 5th December Hilary Allen will be laid to rest after a service at St Mary’s at 1300. My thanks to Rev’d Mandy Carr from Weald for leading this service. Finally, on Friday 6th the family and friends of Sheila Potter who lived in Penshurst for 50 years will gather at St John the Baptist for her funeral service. Let us hold all who mourn in our prayers.

As we look forward to new stages in our church family life, those recently elected as wardens or PCC members will be hearing from our Safeguarding Lead, Wendy Ellis. All wardens and PCC members need to be DBS checked and to undergo several layers of safeguarding training. Please can I encourage you to fill in the necessary forms and book the training as soon as possible. Most training is online, but some can be booked in person. Wendy will be pleased to guide you through the booking process if you need any help.

Next week there are several performances of the Penshurst Pantomime, Robyn Hood. Matthew our Operations Manager has a major ‘baddie’ role (booooo!) and I shall be popping up in tights (and suitable other clothing) as one of Robyn’s Merrie Maids. I am having a few days annual leave from 8th December, and so next Sunday there will be no 0800 service in Penshurst and the 1000 in Fordcombe will be led by Rev’d David Kitley. Next week’s church mailing will be crafted by Tabby and I shall report back in two weeks.

Blessings all

Lisa

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Ø Spirituality and Prayer

Services:

Sunday 1 December: Advent 1

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Holy Communion at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Sunday 8 December: Advent 2

1000 Holy Communion at St Peter’s Fordcombe

1000 Matins at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Sunday 15 December: Advent 3

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1800 Nine Lessons and Carols at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We hold Jack and Celia, and Rebecca and Nicholas in our prayers ahead of their weddings in December.

Baptisms: We hold Ottilie, Elise and Ronnie in our prayers following their baptisms, and wish them and their families well as they embark on this pilgrimage of faith.

Funerals: We hold Hilary Allen, Roger Theobald and Sheila Potter in our prayers, along with their families as they prepare for their funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Mailing:

Spirituality and Prayer:

High Weald Churches 22/11/2024 High Weald Churches 22/11/2024

Newsletter - 11-22

To our benefice friends,

Regretfully, there are a number of funerals upcoming in the benefice in the coming weeks, details of which are included below.

This coming Friday the funeral for Rhian Palmer will be taking place at St Mary’s, Chiddingstone, at 11am.

Roger Theobald’s funeral will be at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium on Monday 2nd of December at 11:30am.

On Thursday 5th December St Mary’s will be holding the funeral of Hilary Allen at 1pm. And the following day, on 6th December at 11:30, we will be holding the funeral for Sheila Potter at St John the Baptist, Penshurst.

If you have any questions on these services please do contact the office.

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 24 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Matins at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

1700 All Age Service at Fordcombe Village Hall

Sunday 1 December: Advent 1

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Holy Communion at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Sunday 8 December: Advent 2

1000 Holy Communion at St Peter’s Fordcombe

1000 Matins at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We hold Jack and Celia, and Rebecca and Nicholas in our prayers ahead of their weddings in December.

Baptisms: We hold Ottilie, Elise and Ronnie in our prayers following their baptisms last weekend, and wish them and their families well as they embark on this pilgrimage of faith.

Funerals: We hold Hilary Allen, Roger Theobald, Sheila Potter and Rhian Palmer in our prayers, along with their families as they prepare for their funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Updates:

Mailing

If you know anyone who would like to be added to our weekly mailing, do let us know (and similarly let us know if you’d like to come off, though we’d be sad to see you go). If you’d like to contribute to the work of the benefice, you can go to our parish giving page via the www.parishgiving.org.uk website (we’d be very grateful). Alternatively, you can always find it on our benefice website: https://www.highwealdchurches.org.uk/news

High Weald Churches 15/11/2024 High Weald Churches 15/11/2024

Newsletter - 11-15

Dear Parishioners

I begin our newsletter with the very sad news from our Chiddingstone Church family. Hilary Allen, the wife of Church Warden Paul, died last weekend. We offer our sincere condolences to Paul, his daughters, grandchildren and wider friends and family at this sad time. I am awaiting confirmation of Hilary’s funeral details. I hope to have more information to share next week. As Rector of the parish, I thank God for Hilary’s life of service to her community, strength of character and dedication to her family. I know she will be missed by many. May she rest in peace and rise in glory.

Also in Chiddingstone, Roger Theobald’s funeral has been confirmed for 1130 on the 2nd December at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium. On Friday 22nd, the family and friends of Myra Morris will gather at Penshurst Church for her funeral. This begins at 1130.

The Fordcombe community were rocked this week by a house fire that has left two families having lost all their possessions, and extensive damage to houses and stables. The community and the schools in Fordcombe and Langton Green have closed around the families, and various fundraising events and gatherings of donations are planned. In the first instance, please speak to Ness at Fordcombe School for advice should you wish to help.

Remembrance events on Sunday and Monday were very poignant and well attended. Thank you to all of you who took the time to attend acts of worship in churches, at war memorials and in schools to remember the fallen. I am proud that as a nation and as local communities, we take time to remember that our peace and prosperity has been hard won and should never be taken for granted

Our church schools in Chiddingstone and Penshurst were inspected by SIAMS this week. Both schools were able to demonstrate the multiplicity of ways in which their Christian vision is embedded and the impacts of this on the school and wider community. From my perspective as Rector, it was fascinating to see how each school does this in their own unique and authentic way. I am also quite glad that this a five yearly process!

This Sunday, Forest Church is at 3pm in my Rectory Garden in Penshurst. We will be celebrating Christ the King. Th earlier time is to make best use of the remaining daylight. All are welcome. Outdoor footwear and coats are recommended

As the long nights draw in, and the final flurries of leaves make it to the compost bin; I wish you all every blessing for the week ahead.

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 17 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1500 Forest Church at Penshurst Rectory Garden

Sunday 24 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Matins at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

1700 All Age Service at Fordcombe Village Hall

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We continue to pray for Amelia and Liam, Ella and Jack and Niall and Lucy, who married in October.

Baptisms: We hold Ottilie, Elise and Ronnie in our prayers ahead of their baptisms in November, and wish them and their families well as they embark on this pilgrimage of faith.

Funerals: We hold Hilary Allen, Myra Morris, Roger Theobald and Rhian Palmer in our prayers, along with their families as they prepare for their funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Updates:

Mailing

High Weald Churches 08/11/2024 High Weald Churches 08/11/2024

Newsletter - 11-08

Dear Parishioners,

Our churches and schools are busy over the next few days with Remembrance events. The ‘There but not There 2024’ installation in Penshurst is in situ until Saturday lunchtime; Martin Barraud’s thought-provoking exhibition, which began life at St John the Baptist Church in November 2016, inspired a national project and new charity. You may find this link interesting: https://littleolives.co.uk/there-but-not-there-the-story-of-the-penshurst-silhouettes/

The RBL Tommys inspired by this exhibition are in place in other local churches, including the Chiddingstones, and in many civic settings. Such a moving tribute for the fallen, that speaks to us on so many levels.

With my inability to be in several places at once, I have spread the church and school Remembrance services over several days. On Sunday 10th, there will be a Holy Communion service at St John the Baptist, Penshurst at 0800. The main Remembrance services will be in the churches at Penshurst and St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway. Please be seated by 1045.

I shall also be leading an Act of Remembrance on Fordcombe Village Green, starting at 1100 on Monday 11th. Once the school have joined us for the main act of Remembrance, we shall move to the War Memorial in The St Peter’s Churchyard to remember the fallen in a further time of reflection. At 1445 on Monday afternoon, I shall be joining the Community of Chiddingstone School for their act of worship at St Mary’s. They will be laying poppies on the war memorial and remembering the fallen as part of their service. I held a Remembrance assembly at Penshurst School on Thursday 7th, and will be following up with another related act of worship next week.

Two of our three local primary schools will be inspected by SIAMS next week. Chiddingstone will be under the microscope on Wednesday and Penshurst on Thursday. The Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) is, for the Church of England and Methodists, a key element of the life in church schools in England. SIAMS explores ways in which each school’s Christian vision drives its work and enables the school to live up to its foundation as a church school. All of our local schools are wonderful communities that bring out the very best in the children in their care. Please keep the schools in your prayers this week.

On Sunday 3rd, three Special Parochial Church Meetings were held to broaden the numbers serving on local PCCs. Thank you to all those who have been nominated and were voted to serve:

In Fordcombe: Michael Gilbert, Evelyn Goldsmith and Christobel Sworder

In Penshurst: Wendy Ellis, Lindsay Frederick, Simon Frederick, Stephen Hazell-Smith, Diana Osborne, Matthew Stevens, Sarah Wickens and Larraine Wilson

In Chiddingstone: Robert Golds, John Gordon-Reid, Robert Hunt, Chris Lloyd, Claire Lockwood, Mark Streatfeild, Juliette Vestrin and Dennis Ward

Also, in Chiddingstone, three new Church Wardens came forward to support the existing office holder, Paul Allen. Thank you to Joanna Allwood, Penny Harris and Jane Streatfeild. They have also been voted to serve (in the first instance) between now and the next APCM. Their legal term of office will begin once they have been admitted by the Archdeacon.

Thank you to all who have stepped into these new roles and also to those who continue to hold office, work or volunteer in our parishes. Please know how much you are appreciated.

My thanks also go to the Archdeacon elect, Rev’d Nick Cornell, for chairing the SPCM in Chiddingstone and for his ongoing role in managing the consultations regarding the future pastoral organisation of our local churches. The Archdeaconry team will be in contact to explain and manage next steps as soon as they can.

The normal governance of the benefice continues to be under the care of The Joint Council. The board next meet on Thursday 21st November, agenda items and papers should be submitted via Tabby our administrator, as soon as possible.

With every blessing for the week ahead

Lisa

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 10 November

0800 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1045 Remembrance Service at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1045 Remembrance Service at St Luke's, Chiddingstone Causeway

1500 Remembrance Service outside at St Mary the Virgin, Chiddingstone

Monday 11 November

1100 Remembrance Service at Fordcombe village green (with school)

Sunday 17 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1500 Forest Church at Penshurst Rectory Garden

Sunday 24 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Matins at St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway

1700 All Age Service at Fordcombe Village Hall

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We continue to pray for Amelia and Liam, Ella and Jack and Niall and Lucy, who married in October.

Baptisms: We hold Ottilie, Elise and Ronnie in our prayers ahead of their baptisms in November, and wish them and their families well as they embark on this pilgrimage of faith.

Funerals: We hold Peter Hutchins and Rhian Palmer in our prayers, along with their families as they prepare for their funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Updates:

Mailing

High Weald Churches 01/11/2024 High Weald Churches 01/11/2024

Newsletter 11-01

To our benefice friends,

This Sunday we will be hosting the Annual Memorial Service for All Soul’s Day, at 6pm at St John the Baptist. This service offers an opportunity to sit with others who mourn, light candles and pray for our loved ones as we remember those that we love but see no longer.

The There But Not There installation has returned to St John the Baptist, and this year will be holding a special evening with the installation on Friday 8th November. Remembrance displays will also be in St Mary’s and St Luke’s, along with the special altar frontals made by the Chiddingstone sewing group Restore, Renew, Refashion.

On Saturday 9th November Penshurst Choral Society will be returning to St John’s for their autumn concert. Tickets are still available for those interested.

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 3 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Holy Communion at St Luke's, Chiddingstone Causeway

1800 Evening service for All Soul's Day at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

Sunday 10 November

0800 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1045 Remembrance Service at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1045 Remembrance Service at St Luke's, Chiddingstone Causeway

1500 Remembrance Service outside at St Mary the Virgin, Chiddingstone

Monday 11 November

1100 Remembrance Service at Fordcombe village green (with school)

Sunday 17 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1500 Forest Church at Penshurst Rectory Garden

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We continue to pray for Amelia and Liam, Ella and Jack and Niall and Lucy, who married in October.

Baptisms: We hold Eleanor in our prayers ahead of her baptism on Sunday and wish her and her family well as they embark on this pilgrimage of faith.

Funerals: We pray for the family and friends of Rhian Palmer, as they plan her funeral in late November.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Updates:

Mailing

High Weald Churches 25/10/2024 High Weald Churches 25/10/2024

Newsletter 10-25

To our benefice friends,

Please see below for a note from the Bishop of Rochester, for those who attended the Archdeacon’s farewell service on Sunday, thank you to all who attended and helped make the service so special.

Dear Lisa and Sal,

This is just a quick note to thank you most warmly for all your help organising the splendid farewell service for Archdeacon Sharon last Sunday.

It was both a joyful and a sad occasion, but everything you did helped it to come together as a very special time for Sharon and for everyone present.

The service was very personal, and the refreshments afterwards were absolutely delicious – a great combination all round!

Please would you pass on my sincere thanks to everyone who helped in so many ways to make it such a great occasion.

With my warmest thanks to you both and very best wishes,

Jonathan

The Rt Revd Dr J R Gibbs

Bishop of Rochester

Coming up, please also be aware of a couple of dates for your diaries. On Saturday St John’s will be hosting a piano concert with Jeffrey Straker, we hope to see many of you there.

We will also be holding an Annual Memorial Service for All Soul’s Day, at 6pm at St John the Baptist. This service offers an opportunity to sit with others who mourn, light candles and pray for our loved ones as we remember those that we love but see no longer. All are welcome. The following week Remembrance Services will be taking place across the benefice, please find further details below.

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 27 October

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1700 All Age Service in Fordcombe Village Hall

Sunday 3 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Holy Communion at St Luke's, Chiddingstone Causeway

1800 Evening service for All Soul's Day at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

Sunday 10 November

0800 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1045 Remembrance Service at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1045 Remembrance Service at St Luke's, Chiddingstone Causeway

1500 Remembrance Service outside at St Mary the Virgin, Chiddingstone

Monday 11 November

1100 Remembrance Service at Fordcombe village green (with school)

To download a full copy of the October service plan, hymns and lections click here.

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We hold Niall and Lucy in our prayers ahead of their wedding on Saturday.

We congratulate Jenny and Glynn celebrating forty years of marriage at a special service in St Mary’s, this Sunday.

Christenings: We pray for Eleanor and Cecily ahead of their upcoming baptisms, and wish them well on their pilgrimage of faith.

Funerals: We pray for the family and friends of Patricia Loring whose funeral took place on Friday; and Rhian Palmer, as they plan her funeral in late November.

We remember with affection and respect Rev’d Jean Lorimer. Her ashes will be laid to rest in St Mary’s churchyard this Saturday at noon.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Updates:

Mailing

High Weald Churches 18/10/2024 High Weald Churches 18/10/2024

Newsletter 10-18

Greetings from Penshurst Rectory

Another busy week in the parish. Last Sunday the final harvest service in the benefice was celebrated at St Peter’s in Fordcombe. Thank you to everyone who attended the six services in three locations over two weeks. Thanks to your generosity, local foodbanks are now well stocked! Also last Sunday we baptised Pippa at St Mary’s Church and later forty or so people attended Forest Church in The Rectory Garden. We thank God for all of the children on our parishes and pray for their journey of faith.

I understand that the harvest lunch held in Chiddingstone Causeway last Sunday raised funds for a local farmers charity and a group from St Luke’s met on Friday to mark their patronal festival. Thank you to Sally Musson for stepping into lead this service, which was organised at short notice. St Luke will also be celebrated in prayers used in church on Sunday.

During the week I have led worship in Penshurst and Fordcombe Schools, attended school governor events and had the opportunity to brief Brian Buck, a local lay minister who is leading the 1000 Matins service in St Luke’s this Sunday and several forthcoming services. This Sunday there will also be a 1000 Holy Communion in St John the Baptist, Penshurst. At 1630 the church is also hosting the Archdeacon of Tonbridge’s farewell service. Bishop Jonathan and many of the great and good from across the diocese will be in attendance. The music is led by a visiting organist and choir from St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Yalding and they are being joined by local voices. This is a service of Evening Prayer with presentations and drinks afterwards. Please park at Penshurst Place if you are attending.

Rev’d Jean Lorimer’s ashes will be laid to rest in the churchyard at St Mary’s at 12 noon on Saturday 26th October. Please contact John Gordon Reid for further details.

I am sad to report the recent death of Patricia Loring who died aged 80. Pat and her late husband John are well known to residents of Fordcombe and Speldhurst. Pat’s funeral service is at 1215 at the Kent and Sussex Crematorium on Friday 25th October. Mourners are invited to wear something red, which was Pat’s favourite colour. Also this week, Rhian Palmer of Chiddingstone Hoath died. We send our sincere condolences to her husband Richard and their young daughter, Rosie. Rhian’s funeral will be at St Mary’s Chiddingstone on Friday 29th November. Further details will follow once confirmed. Please hold these families in prayer as they mourn.

Next weekend Niall and Lucy will marry in St Mary’s on Saturday. The next day Jenny and Glyn will mark forty years of marriage with a special service at St Mary’s. The wedding season will then be paused until two ceremonies in December.

Lastly, please look out for an e mail and notices at each church door regarding three Special Parochial Church Meetings scheduled for Sunday November 3rd.

With blessings for the week ahead,

Lisa

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 20 October

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Matins at St Luke's, Chiddingstone

1630 Evensong service and farewell to Archdeacon Sharon Copestake

Sunday 27 October

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1700 All Age Service in Fordcombe Village Hall

Sunday 3 November

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Holy Communion at St Luke's, Chiddingstone Causeway

1800 Evening service for All Soul's Day at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

To download a full copy of the October service plan, hymns and lections click here.

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We hold Niall and Lucy in our prayers ahead of their wedding next weekend.

Christenings: We pray for Eleanor and Cecily ahead of their upcoming baptisms, and wish them well on this pilgrimage of faith.

Funerals: We pray for Patricia Loring and Rhian Palmer, along with their families, ahead of their funerals.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Updates:

Mailing

High Weald Churches 11/10/2024 High Weald Churches 11/10/2024

Newsletter - 10-11

Greetings from Penshurst Rectory,

It has been a week of harvest celebrations. Two church services last Sunday, three school services last week and this, and a final chance to celebrate God’s bountiful provision at St Peter’s Fordcombe on Sunday at 1000. Thank you for those who have given so generously for local foodbanks. I hope those invited to the Chiddingstone harvest lunch have a splendid gathering. I wish you all well with whatever you have planned.

Last week we celebrated Amelia and Liam’s wedding, and this week Eleanor and Jack will marry in St John the Baptist, Penshurst. On Sunday it will my honour to baptise Pippa at St Mary’s, Chiddingstone. We hold all those coming to church for our occasional offices in prayer.

On Sunday afternoon, Forest Church will meet at The Penshurst Rectory at 4pm. I suggest that you wear wellies or shoes that can cope with things being a bit slippery underfoot. We will be celebrating Autumn, and I hope picking the last of the crop of apples. There will be some apple bobbing and a bonfire for toasting marshmallows. This informal service is suitable for children and families but there are no upper age limits. Refreshments will be served. Please come along.

This Thursday is results day for those who have completed the Kent Test. This leaves year six parents two further weeks to submit their secondary school applications. I am not going to be at work for a lot of half term, so if you need supplementary application forms signing for church schools, please will you make an appointment to see me before the children break for half term. E mail is the best way to contact me rector@highwealdchurches.org.uk

With every blessing for the week ahead,

Lisa

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 13 October

0800 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Holy Communion (Harvest) at St Peter's, Fordcombe

1600 Forest Church at Penshurst Rectory

Sunday 20 October

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Matins at St Luke's, Chiddingstone

1630 Evensong service and farewell to Archdeacon Sharon Copestake

Sunday 27 October

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1700 All Age Service in Fordcombe Village Hall

To download a full copy of the October service plan, hymns and lections click here.

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We hold Ella and Jack, and Niall and Lucy in our prayers ahead of their weddings in October.

Christenings: We pray for Pippa and her family ahead of her baptism on Sunday, and wish them well on this pilgrimage of faith.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Updates:

Mailing

High Weald Churches 04/10/2024 High Weald Churches 04/10/2024

Newsletter - 10-04

Greetings all,

I am writing this in the feast day of St Francis of Assisi; and with his love of animals and respect for the created order this is an opportunity to invite you afresh to our various creation themed services in the next week.

Please donate harvest gifts at the morning services on Sunday in Penshurst and St Luke’s, Chiddingstone Causeway. These will be added to the items gathered by schools for local foodbanks. The Chid school community gathered for a splendid harvest service at St Mary’s on Tuesday. Some of their donated items are shown in the photograph. Items collected in the Chiddingstone services will be passed to the Foodbank in Edenbridge. Items collected this week in Penshurst and next week in Fordcombe will be donated to Nourish in Tunbridge Wells. There are two school harvest services this week in Penshurst on Thursday, and Fordcombe in Friday. Both begin at 0915.

This Sunday we will be holding our annual pet blessing service at Poundsbridge at 6pm. All well behaved owners and their pets are welcome. Please keep dogs on leads.

We wish Amelia and Liam every blessing for their wedding day this Saturday and Ella and Jack marrying next weekend. This year’s wedding season stretches right through until the end of the year. Watch this space!

I close with a prayer of blessing for the harvest season:

May God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Who is the source of all goodness and growth,

pour his blessings upon all things created,

and upon you his children,

that you may use his gifts to his glory

and the welfare of all peoples.

Amen

With every blessing for the week ahead,

Lisa

In this edition

Ø Services

Ø Life Events

Ø Learning and growing

Services:

Sunday 6 October

1000 Holy Communion (Harvest) at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Holy Communion (Harvest) at St Luke's, Chiddingstone

1800 Pet service at All Souls, Poundsbridge

Sunday 13 October

0800 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Holy Communion (Harvest) at St Peter's, Fordcombe

Sunday 20 October

1000 Holy Communion at St John the Baptist, Penshurst

1000 Matins at St Luke's, Chiddingstone

1630 Evensong service and farewell to Archdeacon Sharon Copestake

To download a full copy of the October service plan, hymns and lections click here.

Life Events:

In our prayers we hold those coming through our doors this month to mark their life events:

Weddings: We hold Amelia and Liam, and Ella and Jack in our prayers ahead of their weddings in October.

Christenings: We pray for Pippa and her family ahead of her upcoming baptism and wish them well on this pilgrimage of faith.

And we remember those whose anniversary falls at this time of year, they shall be prayed for in church on Sunday.

Learning and growing:

Updates:

Mailing

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