Church Clock: The saga continues. Smith of Derby made short work of stripping down, cleaning and reassembling the clock. It now has the electric winding mechanism installed. However, the dial and hands were taken back to the works at Derby to be scoured, and it was discovered that in those parts exposed to the elements there was significant deterioration. No surprise really. Also, the spring on the bell hammer was broken, so a new one is being made. However, it is impossible to reach that area from the cherry picker which Bill and Jonquil Sabin sorted for us, so we shall also have to have a scaffolding tower. One day all will be well. Actually it is all well, just a bit more long-winded than we had hoped!

HM Queen’s 90th birthday Celebrations: On Sunday June 12th, as part of the services already arranged, there will be prayers specially for Her Majesty. On Saturday June 11th, in Sibford Church, at 6.30pm we will have the great joy of welcoming the Chapel Choir of Worcester College, Oxford, under their Director of Music, Thomas Allery MA (Oxon), MMus, FRCO. The Choir is comprised of Graduates and Undergraduates of the University, and sings regularly to a high standard, as well as touring cathedrals in this country, and abroad. Their programme will include some “regal” pieces, and will be accessible to all. £5 a ticket, or a Family (up to six) for £20. Refreshments during the interval. The concert is deliberately early so that families can attend. Do come…it will be a treat.

A  Little story: When I was a very little girl. many years ago, my parents would take me to Sibford Morning Service. This particular Sunday The Rev. Grogan was preaching on when to say Yes and when to say No. When we got home Mum asked if I wanted any lunch my reply was NO and I then spent the next 5 mins screaming the house down because I  didn't  get any. That was my first proper word. That says a lot?  Evey Boughton

But we’ve always done it this way…… I enjoy it when something a little different is offered by the church, for example the sunrise service on Easter Sunday.  My personal experience is that the following of the same written format week in week can be spiritually unfulfilling; yet how delightful it can be to work from the heart with spontaneity and connection: to experience, not just to recite.  What is that I hear? Cats meowing?  Pigeons cooing ? Villagers hands flapping as they are held up in horror?  Probably. AD