Dear Friends

I think it is now officially autumn time and I am taking a more relaxed view on the number of spiders requiring lodging in the bathroom having turfed them all out at the beginning of September as it was far too early in my opinion. Apart from ordinary church events such as the Heritage weekend and learning the church history in case anyone asked questions (they didn’t) and the impending Harvest Thanksgiving and wondering whether the last remaining flowers in my garden would still be reasonable for use as decoration (they were) not much has gone on and my attention has been more taken with the upcoming Friends’ Reunion event. Thank you to those who have already let me know they will be coming along.

The Friends’ Reunion event will take place on 18 October with the Friends joining the congregation of Southwark Cathedral for Evening Prayer at 5.30pm and then meeting together after the service until about 7.30pm in the Garry Weston Library.

True friendship is not affected by separation, which is just as well because many of you are not able for varying reasons to join the Friends’ event on 18 October but for those of you who are still thinking about coming along, please let me know immediately so you can be added to my list for catering purposes. It is important that there is a reasonably accurate number for the after-service light refreshments so no fighting breaks out over the last sausage roll or the wine running out! Just a little reminder that it is light refreshments so, if you need something more substantial either before or after the event there are numerous eateries around the Cathedral / London Bridge area.

The Honorary Secretary, Friends of the Diocese in Europe, 14 Tufton Street, London SW1P 3QZ or jeanne.french@churchofengland.org.

A small task for those not able to coming along is to remember us in your prayers – for safe travel and a joyful meeting.

Bishop David will be attending and it will be the Friends’ opportunity to say goodbye before he retires in February 2024. Bishop Antonio Ablon, a bishop in the Philippine Independent Church and now Chaplain in Stuttgart will give a brief address during the after-service get together. Bishop Antonio needs a visa to visit the UK so his attendance is subject to a successful application.

For those of you, who do not know London particularly well, Southwark Cathedral is very close (walking distance) from London Bridge rail and underground stations.

We hope to see you in October!