St Mary's Church, Dymock

Reports

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Our preparation for Easter began with our traditional 'Ash Wednesday' Service. A smaller congregation than we've often had in the past sat together in our choir stalls at the front of the church for a regular Service of Holy Communion except, in addition and after we'd heard the traditional readings, our Rector, The Rev'd Tony Lomas, applied a cross of soot to the head of each person attending as a sign of penance for our sins. (Return to top)

Again in accordance with tradition, the soot had been made earlier by burning the 'Palm Crosses' from last year and mixing the soot with olive oil to make it suitable for 'anointing'. (Return to top)

The Season of 'Lent' starts with 'Ash Wednesday' which this year was on 5th March, so for our Family Service got us thinking about what Lent means and what God might be saying to each of us this Lent. The service followed our usual 'All-Age' format for adults and young people but the sermon asked questions about why Jesus went into the wilderness - not to see if he could resist temptation but to listen for God, what he wanted Jesus to do and how he was going to do it. (Return to top)

The congregation seemed reluctant to answer when the questions were put but we learn afterwards that they weren't sure if they were supposed to be answering or if the minister was going to provide the answers himself as it's unusual for the congregation to speak during a sermon - we'll have to make that clearer next time! (Return to top)

On Saturday 7th February, our young musicians displayed impressive musical talent in support of two worthy causes. Assisted by members of St Mary's Church Choir, they performed a varied programme of solo, group and choir items to entertain an appreciative audience ranging from Kenyan choruses, through classical violin and piano solos, to excepts from musical shows. (Return to top)

During the interval Newent School teacher, Vanessa Taylor, outlined the school exchange project which is currently preparing for hosting Kenyan students here in a few weeks time and then returning their visit by some Newent students going to Kenya in the summer. Emma Dodd from Dymock will be travelling out with the group and was working hard at funding her own share of the travel costs. The enjoyable evening successfully raised £400 to be shared between the Newent Community School Kenyan link and Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust. (Return to top)