News from the Pews 21 February 2026

Dear Friends

Given this morning's news reports, and with a heavy heart, I'll begin by sharing the following Diocesan Statement https://www.elydiocese.org/about/news-jobs-and-events/news-and-announcements/news/diocesan-statement-regarding-the-former-bishop-of-ely.php In addition to following the advice in the Statement, if you need or would like to be in touch with me, please don't hesitate to drop me an email or pick up the phone: 01353 725 948 

Now thinking back to last Sunday, Kimberly Packer has this message to share:

Jeremy and I are overwhelmed by the kindness, thoughtfulness, and generosity of our people at St. Andrew’s Church. To be so warmly welcomed and included in this church touched us so much. Thank you for all of your kind well wishes and cards at my baptism on Sunday.

And thinking ahead to May, there'll be a Christian Aid Week Supper on Saturday 16 May, 5.45 for 6pm. This missed the What's On leaflet, so please note it in your diaries now. More info. much nearer the time.

Back to the present, tomorrow, Sunday 22 Feb., the first Sunday of Lent, we'll have the usual 8am Communion followed by an All Age Communion at 10am. The Gospel reading at 10am will be Matthew 4: 1-11. Options for first readings that day (which we won't hear during the service but which you might like to read at home are Genesis 2: 15-17 and 3: 1-7; and Romans 5: 12-19. The set psalm is no. 32)

And finally, there'll be a simple service in the garden room at Millbrook House at 10.30am on Monday this coming week (23 Feb.), remembering loved ones who have died, whether recently or long ago. Everyone is welcome, including non-residents. 

The above notice brings me to pass on a message from Penny Oliver from Soham Baptist Church, whose dear mother, Pauline King, died recently. Pauline's funeral will take place at 2pm on Tuesday 3 March at Soham Baptist Church. Penny is keen to spread the word that everyone is welcome to attend.

All of the above merits our prayer. Perhaps see you on Sunday, and with warmest good wishes 'til then

Eleanor

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