Notices: Sunday 9th November

I remember when my dad died feeling utterly exhausted. Lots of well-meaning people encouraged me to pray, but to be honest, I just couldn’t. Then one very wise woman said something I’ve never forgotten: “Lean hard on God – we’ll do the praying for you.”

That simple act of kindness reminded me that we’re not meant to carry life — or loss — on our own. We lean on God, yes, but we also lean on one another. In love, in prayer, in the quiet ways we show up for each other, we share the weight and the hope of faith together.

This week we’re marking All Saints’ Day and holding our Memorial Service — two special moments that invite us to pause, remember, and give thanks.

All Saints’ Day is a celebration of all those who have shown God’s love in the world — not just the “famous” saints, but ordinary people whose kindness, courage, and care have shaped us. It reminds us that holiness grows in community — in the ways we encourage, forgive, and look out for one another.

At our Memorial Service, we’ll take time to remember loved ones who are no longer with us. There’s something deeply moving about lighting a candle, saying a name, and knowing others are doing the same. Grief and gratitude often sit side by side — and that’s okay. In community, we find strength, comfort, and the reminder that love continues to hold us all.

So whether this week finds you full of thankfulness or still aching with loss, may you know you’re not alone — surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, and upheld by the love of God and the care of one another.