Monthly Letter from the Ministry Team
| JUNE 2026 – LETTER FROM THE MINISTRY TEAM The Revd Phil Smith writes: As I write this letter I have abiding memory in my head, that of ‘Yarnival’ – a festival of all things yarn – depicting the life of our church of St Giles and how it engages with the wider community. I am sure that of the nearly 500 who visited, none could have failed to be amazed at what they had witnessed – a taster of what was about to unfold being proudly displayed in the church porch – namely St Giles itself complete with golden cockerel perched on top of its spire. Apparently, the whole idea was born out a conversation at a social gathering – with conception to fruition being achieved in just 20 months. Clearly the idea of holding such an event was inspired by God – and you cannot but help compare this ‘miracle’ to the Parable of the Mustard Seed as found in Matthew’s Gospel – the tiny idea being the mustard seed that was destined to grow and grow to become a tree that stretched out it roots to reach out to all parts of both the church and wider community to gather them under the embrace of its branches. This of course was not a ‘one man’ show, I am told there were 9 co-ordinators, over 100 crafters contributed with vital backroom staff helping to put it together and promote it to say nothing of all those who ‘manned’ the church for eight days to ensure that all visitors were given a warm welcome and left feeling refreshed – both spiritually and with a good cup of tea inside them. I was very much reminded of our readings at Pentecost from 1 Corinthians which speaks of the gifts of the spirit and how each and everyone of us is born with a gift and a talent and how it is God’s will that we should all make the most of what we have been given and Yarnival gave so many the opportunity to demonstrate that, working both to a plan and vision with a definite deadline! The church of Christ may be a single body, which is made up different parts – all united as one body – but then we are given the freedom to ensure our part, plays its part for God’s glory. I am not going to single out any particular display – as looking at the photographs on my phone they are all worthy of special merit. I am also pleased to hear that they will not be stored away and forgotten – but used throughout the year both as a teaching aid and to add colour and interest to enhance the seasons of the church and the services it provides. The legacy of Yarnival – shall live on for many, many years to come! So, to each and every one of you who had any involvement with ‘Yarnival’ well done to you all, you have done us proud and have honoured God in the process. Every blessing, Revd Phil. |