September 2024 Magazine It is hard to believe that it is already September and I do hope that you have all managed to find some time for rest and recuperation during the summer months. You may or may not think it is important, but we read several times in the bible that Jesus took himself away, into a place of quietness to reflect and to pray. Not only did he take himself away, but we are also told that on some occasions he took with him those close to him, his disciples, those who would become the leaders and teachers in the community. This is something, that when the time is right, I feel will be an important part of our growth as a benefice. From September, we start a busy time in church life with Harvest services, an All Souls service to enable us to remember those we have lost and who might have had a funeral with us, Remembrance and then before we know it, we will be into the busyness of Christmas. For both Jill and I, September is going to be a month of turmoil whilst building work is happening in the rectory. We are also going away for a short break, for our time of refreshment in September, after what has been a very busy year for us with our move to the island, setting up a new home and meeting all of you. Please continue to pray for Jill and I as we settle in, for the benefice as we learn to live and worship together and for our new Anna chaplains, Mandy and Heather. God bless you all Rob