It helps, now and then, to step back and take a long view….. This is what we are about: we plant the seeds that one day will grow. We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise. We lay foundations that will need further development; we provide yeast that produces far beyond our capabilities.

We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that. This enables us to do something, and to do it very well. It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, a step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord’s grace to enter and do the rest.

We may never see the end results, but that is the difference between the master builder and the worker.

We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs. We are prophets of a future not our own. Amen.

At a recent meeting, a very senior churchman spoke to us along these same lines and I found that very liberating…..we do what we can, as best we can, and as much as we can…..and we let God do the rest.

Our Village Schools You may remember the recent fight to keep our schools in Barrington, Ilton and Shepton Beauchamp…..well I am very pleased to say that they have had an amazing year and successful year and the pupil numbers for September 2011 show that numbers are climbing steadily, and in some age groups there are very few places left. Prospective parents visiting the schools are often so impressed that they don't visit any others. Well done to all who work for and with our village schools.

Church Registers You can see on the next pages the regular section “From the Church Registers” that are little churches have had a really busy month with Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals; I think this is another healthy sign that our churches are thriving and welcoming.

I would like to say thank you to everyone who helps and supports this; its hard work sometimes, but by a team effort we are “doing good”, so I'd just like you all to know that everyone's contribution to the life of our churches is noticed and appreciated.