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Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  10.00am to 2.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s usually held at Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm. Transport can be provided if needed. 

Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  10.00am to 2.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  10.00am to 2.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

All welcome to our spring coffee morning.  Come for a cuppa and company.

Faith afirming gifts will also be on sale from faith in the Unfolding.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Join us for tea and a chat every first Tuesday each month from 2.30pm in Bracon Ash Village Hall.

Join us for services around the benefice as we journey with Jesus to the cross and beyond, at Easter. Everyone welcome.

Christians believe that Jesus died at 3pm on that terrible but wonderful day 2000 years ago, the day we remember on Good Friday.  So this event commemorates his last 60 minutes as a man on Planet Earth.

We meet at the Village Sign on the north of the Common, or outside the Rectory.

We will walk with the cross past as many homes in the village as we can within two hours, coming back to the village sign, where we will erect a cross, hear some Bible readings, say some prayers and sing a song.

Hot cross buns and drinks served in Harvest House afterwards.

Anyone is welcome to join us for the whole walk, for a part of it, or meet us at about noon at the village sign for the public act of worship, or in Harvest House for a bun!

The route we will walk is shown below, so you can work out roughly when to expect us, if you want to join as we walk past your house.

Adrian leads us in a contemplative communion service to mark the day of the Last Supper itself.

Order of service available here

Join in person or via the livestream.: https:/youtu.be/iy_obSacvoQ

Adrian leads us in a contemplative communion service to mark the day of the Last Supper itself.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s usually held at Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm. Transport can be provided if needed. 

Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Come and enjoy a 'chorale' drawn from Mulbarton Community Choir singing some of their wide and growing range of songs, accompanied by the inimitable Laurie Bennett. What could be better on a chilly March Sunday afternoon than 40 minutes of music, a spacious interval with tea (coffee or chocolate) and as much home-made cake as you can eat, followed by another half-hour of music? You'll do some good as well because your ticket price will kick-off the church's charitable giving for 2024 and add to the fund we've started to repair the timberwork in the tower and bring the bell back into operation. Suggested contribution: £8.00

Tickets and more information at  https://www.tickettailor.com/events/allsaintschurchhethel/1121278

Map: Hethel Church

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Join us for tea and a chat every first Tuesday each month from 2.30pm in Bracon Ash Village Hall.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s usually held at Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm. Transport can be provided if needed. 

Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

For the last couple of years, on some Sunday afternoons visitors to Hethel Church have enjoyed tea and teacakes (or crumpets), dripping with butter, honey or jam.

Join us for an afternoon of swapping fun at our next Swap Shop  from 1pm - 3pm at Mulbarton Village Hall during the Monday Community Hub

Bring your once loved items along to give them a new life in someone else’s home. And see what new-to-you items you can take home to enjoy.

3 items per person but no Electrical Goods. Refreshments available. Donations taken.

For further info contact Sarah on sarahpmiller@googlemail.com or 01508 571167

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Ash Wednesday marks the start of the observation of Lent, a season of self-examination, penitence, self-denial, study, and preparation for Easter. Lent is often described as lasting forty days (excluding Sundays) which recalls the Biblical account of Jesus’s temptation in the wilderness (Luke 4.1-13).

Ashes are an ancient sign of penitence. From the Middle Ages onward it has been a custom to begin Lent by having the sign of the cross marked on one’s forehead in ash.

The Liturgical Year | The Church of England

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us for tea and a chat every first Tuesday each month from 2.30pm in Bracon Ash Village Hall.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

For the last couple of years, on some Sunday afternoons visitors to Hethel Church have enjoyed tea and teacakes (or crumpets), dripping with butter, honey or jam.

Upcoming dates for 2024 are 28 January, 25 February and 24 March.

We're planning the February date to be a church and charity choral afternoon with Mulbarton Community Choir around tea and cakes. Watch out for info nearer the time!

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s usually held at Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm. Transport can be provided if needed. 

Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3.00pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from  9.30am to 3pm at Mulbarton Village Hall. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Join us for a short service with simple carols, an engaging story, the nativity scene, local musical talent, and chocolate!

Still a few places left for a half day Open the Book holiday club in Mulbarton Primary School on 21st December, but hurry!

Apply for tickets (£3 per child) at   holidayclub@mulbchurch.org.uk 

Flordon Film Club will be screening THE OLD OAK in St. Michael's Community Centre Wednesday 20^th December, with free mulled wine and mince pies!  The doors open at 7.00pm and the film starts at 7.45.

This is Ken Loach’s latest film (and some would say one of his best), which has the contemporary theme of refugees.  “A lot could be said about The Old Oak’s beautiful cinematography, excellent acting, and marvellous directing, all of which make this story come to life, but what really stands out the most in the film is the humanity that shines throughout. It is a beautiful reminder of what a community is and can be, regardless of country of origin, religion, or skin colour.” (Loud and Clear Reviews)

Tickets are £5 each, and annual membership which is now due also is £5. To book or for more information about the club please contact David on 470118 or david020747@hotmail.co.uk

Please note: In 2024 meetings will be held on the second Wednesday of the month, and so the following meeting will be on Wednesday 14 February. The film has yet to be chosen.

Come join in carol singing in the community to raise funds for charity.  Meet at 6:30pm outside the phone box in Flordon.  Mulled wine and mince pies served at Flordon Church after singing round homes.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments this Monday from 09.30am to 3.00pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

In the New Year the Monday Community Hub - an initiative of Mulbarton Village Hall/Sports & Social Club - will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Everyone welcome.

Livestream here: https://www.youtu.be/mQOsQ4e-524

Sunday 17 Dec 4.00pm           MULBARTON

Sunday 17 Dec 6.30pm          MULBARTON

Sunday 24 Dec, 10.30am       HANOVER GDNS

All welcome.

YouTube livestream here: https://youtu.be/7qg7cAgJEnQ

Sunday 17 Dec 4.00pm           MULBARTON

Sunday 17 Dec 6.30pm          MULBARTON

Sunday 24 Dec, 10.30am       HANOVER GDNS

All welcome.

Christmas Party - Sat 16th Dec

Join the family fun with a special Christmas Party at Mulbarton Village Hall from 3pm til late.

Immerse yourself in the world of Arts & Crafts, where you can unleash your creativity and create beautiful holiday-themed masterpieces.  Get your dancing shoes on for our Mini Disco! Frozen Characters will make a special appearance, bringing enchantment and magic to the event. Meet your beloved characters and capture unforgettable memories. Indulge your taste buds with an array of mouthwatering delights from the pop-up kitchens. From sizzling Hog Roast to delectable Waffles, Ice Creams, Burgers, Hot Donuts, and more! Experience captivating live music throughout the day! Enjoy the soulful tunes of Barny Holmes and, later in the evening, groove to the energetic melodies of the Joe Ringer band. Something for everyone.  Don’t miss it!     Tickets from:  https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mulbarton-christmas-party-tickets-748415389577

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s usually held at the Social Club, Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm, however for this month (December) only, it will be on Tuesday 12th December from 2-4pm

Transport can be provided if needed. Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Meet to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Sunday 10 Dec 4pm                HETHEL

Sunday 10 Dec 6.30pm           FLORDON

Sunday 17 Dec 4.00pm           MULBARTON

Sunday 17 Dec 6.30pm          MULBARTON

Sunday 24 Dec, 10.30am       HANOVER GDNS

All welcome.

Sunday 10 Dec 4pm                HETHEL

Sunday 10 Dec 6.30pm           FLORDON

Sunday 17 Dec 4.00pm           MULBARTON

Sunday 17 Dec 6.30pm          MULBARTON

Sunday 24 Dec, 10.30am       HANOVER GDNS

All welcome.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Join us for tea and a chat every first Tuesday each month from 2.30pm in Bracon Ash Village Hall.

Children are invited to dress up as shepherds, angels or kings and will have an opportunity to parade around the church in costume.

Tuesday 5^th December   9.45am – 10.30am in Mulbarton Church

Join us to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Loved by children and adults alike, join us for this candle-lit celebration sponsored by the Children's Society.

Each element of a Christingle has a special meaning and helps to tell the Christian story: The orange represents the world. The red ribbon (or tape) symbolises the love and blood of Christ. The sweets and dried fruit represent all of God’s creations. The lit candle represents Jesus’s light in the world, bringing hope to people living in darkness.

Everything provided. All welcome.

Festive winter concert with Mulbarton Community Choir

Mulbarton Village Hall  Saturday 2nd December 2023 from 7.30pm

Tickets £5 per adult.  £1 per child.

Tickets available from:   https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/t-avdmdmo

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s held at the Social Club, Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm

Transport can be provided if needed. Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Join us to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome. We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern. We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Join us to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Please join us at Harvest House every Thursday from 9:15am-10:00am for Morning Prayer. All welcome.
We use very simple form of words to give us a bit of structure, chat about a Bible reading, and offer simple prayers for things of concern.
We also enjoy freshly brewed delicious coffee (other hot drinks are also available!)

Please join us to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Please join us for any of our Services of Remembrance on Sun 12th November - details below:

Sun 12th  10.00am - 11:30am      Mulbarton Church & YouTube          Remembrance Service

Sun 12th, 10:30am - 11:15am      St. Michael's, Flordon                      Remembrance

Sun 12th, 10:45am - 11:30am      St. Nicholas, Bracon Ash                 Outdoor Remembrance

            Morning Prayer & Coffee at Harvest House. All welcome.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s held at the Social Club, Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm

However, the October 2023 meeting will meet on 31st this month due to work filling the potholes on the village hall car park. 

Transport can be provided if needed. Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Join us for an afternoon of swapping fun at our next Swap Shop on Saturday 14th October 2.30pm - 4.30pm at Harvest House.  

Bring your once loved items along to give them a new life in someone else’s home. And see what new-to-you items you can take home to enjoy.

3 items per person but no Electrical Goods. Refreshments available. Donations taken.

For further info contact Sarah on sarahpmiller@googlemail.com or 01508 571167

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue to run every Monday, 11am-2:30pm, except on Bank Holidays.

Join us for a quiz & refreshments in aid of Tearfund. 

Tearfund is a charity working with local churches & organisations in more than 50 countries to tackle poverty.  It is one of Mulbarton Church's mission partners, on whom we focus every Harvest season.

We look forward to a fun-filled afternoon of quizzing, delicious afternoon tea fare, and all for a great cause!  What's not to like?!

Please let Adrian or Sarah know if you would like to come and make up a quiz table, and if you have any special dieatry requirements.  There will be a donation box in aid of Tearfund available on the afternoon.

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s held at the Social Club, Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm

Transport can be provided if needed. Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome.

            Morning Prayer & Coffee at Harvest House. All welcome.

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s held at the Social Club, Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm

Transport can be provided if needed. Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue running through the summer holidays, every Monday, 11am-2:30pm.

Hethel Church Cream Teas

Come along for cream teas on summer Sunday afternoons. Home-made scones, of course, and tea in our attractive tiny teapots (or cafetière coffee, hot chocolate or juices). Probably some special home-made cookies as well in case children (or adults!) prefer.

The churchyard is a beautiful oasis in which to sit and, if it's wet, come inside and share the gloom with us!  The convivial buzz is what people come for as much as anything.

Sundays 20 and 27 August from 2pm -  5pm

Benefice “Future Thinking” Meeting: 7:30pm, Wed 16 Aug, Harvest House

There are several things coming our way in the near future, on a deanery and benefice level, as well as a national church level, that many at our APCMs this year valued an opportunity to think together about.  If you are on an electoral roll or worship with us, please do come and contribute to the discussion with PCC members from all four parishes, as we think thoughts, hopes and fears together about our future.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue running through the summer holidays, every Monday, 11am-2:30pm.

Hethel Church Cream Teas

Come along for cream teas on summer Sunday afternoons. Home-made scones, of course, and tea in our attractive tiny teapots (or cafetière coffee, hot chocolate or juices). Probably some special home-made cookies as well in case children (or adults!) prefer.

The churchyard is a beautiful oasis in which to sit and, if it's wet, come inside and share the gloom with us!  The convivial buzz is what people come for as much as anything.

Sundays 13, 20 and 27 August from 2pm -  5pm

Leaders: Adrian

Following up from a fab holiday club week, exploring the theme of lost things being found, all welcome to hear the stories, sing the songs, and celebrate together.
 

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue running through the summer holidays, every Monday, 11am-2:30pm.

Hethel Church Cream Teas

Come along for cream teas on summer Sunday afternoons. Home-made scones, of course, and tea in our attractive tiny teapots (or cafetière coffee, hot chocolate or juices). Probably some special home-made cookies as well in case children (or adults!) prefer.

The churchyard is a beautiful oasis in which to sit and, if it's wet, come inside and share the gloom with us!  The convivial buzz is what people come for as much as anything.

Sundays 6, 13, 20 and 27 August from 2pm -  5pm

Hethel Church Cream Teas

Come along for cream teas on summer Sunday afternoons. Home-made scones, of course, and tea in our attractive tiny teapots (or cafetière coffee, hot chocolate or juices). Probably some special home-made cookies as well in case children (or adults!) prefer.

The churchyard is a beautiful oasis in which to sit and, if it's wet, come inside and share the gloom with us!  The convivial buzz is what people come for as much as anything.

Sundays 30 July,  and Sundays 6, 13, 20 and 27 August from 2pm -  5pm

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s held at the Social Club, Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm

Transport can be provided if needed. Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (01508 578068) for more information.

If you’ve always wanted to learn to dance or would like a refresher, please come and join us on Monday evenings at Mulbarton Village Hall! 

Modern Jive class from 8.30 to 9.30pm 

Unfortunately, the “Ballroom and Latin” beginner classes at 7:30pm Monday evenings will need to pause for the next couple of weeks, while some people are away, resuming on Monday 6th August at 7.30pm.  The Modern Jive class at 8:30pm will continue unaffected.  Both classes would be happy to see more participants.

Interested? Then please contact Sandra Boatman for more information and to register interest on 01508 528284 or email sandra@simplydance.net

The intention is then for Sandra to host a Tea Dance as a church fund raiser in the Autumn for both learners and more experienced dancers - more details to follow shortly.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

The Community Hub will continue running through the summer holidays, every Monday, 11am-2:30pm.

Hethel Church Cream Teas

Come along for cream teas on summer Sunday afternoons. Home-made scones, of course, and tea in our attractive tiny teapots (or cafetière coffee, hot chocolate or juices). Probably some special home-made cookies as well in case children (or adults!) prefer.

The churchyard is a beautiful oasis in which to sit and, if it's wet, come inside and share the gloom with us!  The convivial buzz is what people come for as much as anything.

Sundays 23 and 30 July,  and Sundays 6, 13, 20 and 27 August from 2pm -  5pm

Join us for an afternoon of swapping fun at our next Swap Shop on Saturday 22nd July 2.30-4.30pm at Harvest House.  

Bring your once loved items along to give them a new life in someone else’s home. And see what new-to-you items you can take home to enjoy.

3 items per person but no Electrical Goods. Refreshments available. Donations taken.

For further info contact Sarah on sarahpmiller@googlemail.com or 571167

            Morning Prayer & Coffee at Harvest House. All welcome.

If you’ve always wanted to learn to dance or would like a refresher, please come and join us on Monday evenings at Mulbarton Village Hall! 

Ballroom & Latin class from 7.30pm to 8.30pm        Modern Jive class from 8.30 to 9.30pm 

Interested? Then please contact Sandra Boatman for more information and to register interest on 01508 528284 or email sandra@simplydance.net

The intention is then for Sandra to host a Tea Dance as a church fund raiser in September for both learners and more experienced dancers - more details to follow shortly.

Come to socialise and enjoy refreshments every Monday from 11.00am to 2.30pm in Mulbarton Social Club. Childrens toys also available. Access is free, donations always welcome. 

If you have any connection with the Flordon Community Centre project you will be most welcome at their 10th anniversary celebration at the Community Centre on 15th July 2023

            Morning Prayer & Coffee at Harvest House. All welcome.

If you’ve always wanted to learn to dance or would like a refresher, you might like to join us on Mondays starting 10^th July at Mulbarton Village Hall!

Ballroom & Latin class from 7.30pm to 8.30pm; modern jive class from 8.30 to 9.30pm

Interested? Then please contact Sandra Boatman for more information on 01508 528284 or email sandra@simplydance.net

The intention is then for Sandra to host a Tea Dance as a church fund raiser in September for both learners and more experienced dancers - more details to follow shortly.

            Morning Prayer & Coffee at Harvest House. All welcome.

Please join us for tea and a chat every first Tuesday each month from 2.30pm in Bracon Ash Village Hall.

            Morning Prayer & Coffee at Harvest House. All welcome.

Mardlers is an afternoon of tea and chat and an opportunity to meet others. It’s held at the Social Club, Mulbarton Village Hall on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 2 - 4.00pm

Transport can be provided if needed. Please come, or speak to Sue Mellows (07936 703124) or Tracey Salisbury (578068) for more information.

‘Together’ is a new venture in Mulbarton.

Every fourth Sunday at 6pm there is a light supper of bread and cheese to enjoy at Harvest House. At 7pm there is a short, reflective Evening Prayer in church drawing on contemplative, Celtic, Northumbrian traditions.

Any are welcome to the supper or the service or both. Come to what would be a blessing to you.

Please let us know if you are coming to the supper by contacting Rachel on roo3471@gmail.com by the Thursday before.

Mulbarton Community Choir

Summer Concert at Mulbarton Community Centre

Doors open at 7pm Concert starts at 7:30pm

There will be tea, coffee and the bar is also available

Huge thanks to Mulbarton MOT and Repair for sponsoring this event
Tickets available here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/mulbarton-church/t-yaexekj
£5 adults, £1 children.
Raising Funds for East Anglian Air Ambulance.
Listen to some of our past singing here: https://mulbchurch.org.uk/.../Choir.../Tears_in_Heaven.mp3

            Morning Prayer & Coffee at Harvest House. All welcome.

Sarah McCrum was a treasured part of the fellowship herre in Mulbarton, and will be greatly missed.

All are welcome at Mulbarton Church this Friday to honour her memory in a special service of thanksgiving, which will follow a short ceremony at the graveside, as we lay Sarah to rest with her beloved Michael.

Donations in memory of Sarah may be made to her two favourite charities:

• Maoz: https://www.stewardship.org.uk/partners/20029299
• Shepherd’s Heart (Jeremy, Lissa and family especially): https://shepherdsheart.org/united-kingdom/

The church service order is available to download here.

A livestream is available here, for those who would like to access from a distance: https://youtube.com/live/0hSbhEgkAuo?feature=share

To celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight: A Bring and Share Fairtrade tea party!  Bring yourself and a cake or biscuits, made with Fairtrade ingredients - see links to Fairtrade baking ingredients and some recipes below .

Saturday 11th March, Harvest House, anytime between 3pm and 4.30pm. All drinks will be provided.

Do invite friends and families too????

https://www.fairtrade.org.uk/media-centre/blog/bake-a-difference-with-these-20-fairtrade-baking-ingredients/

https://www.fairtrade.org.uk/choose-the-world-you-want/foodie-tent/more-recipes/

Bring a present.  Celebrate the birth of Christ on Christmas Day.  A short service suitable for all ages.

A traditional Christmas Communion service, led by visiting padre, Rev Andrew North

A simple traditional Christmas Communion service with carols

A short traditional midnight communion service, with carols.

All welcome.

A special starry service for the young among us, to mark the sun going down on Christmas Eve.

A special gentle moment to gather in Mulbarton Church, with goodies to take away.

We are delighted to welcome Mulbarton Community Choir back to Mulbarton Church, where it all began for them.  It is three years since we were able to do this, and we cannot wait.

All welcome to join us for a Christmas delight at either 4pm or 6:30pm.  With refreshments following.

We are delighted to welcome Mulbarton Community Choir back to Mulbarton Church, where it all began for them.  It is three years since we were able to do this, and we cannot wait.

All welcome to join us for a Christmas delight at either 4pm or 6:30pm.  With refreshments following.

Traditional Carol Service in the warm and pleasant environment of Hanvoer Gardens Lounge, led by Jill, with Nick accompanying for the carols.

All welcome to our traditional carol service of 7 lesons and 7 carols.

Traditional Candlelit Christmas Carol Service, with 7 lessons and 7 carols.

All welcome to enjoy the ambience of our newly watertight church building at this special time of year.

Come and join us for a choir led and candle lit Christmas concert at St Nicholas Church, Bracon Ash. The choir has been carefully curated by classical singer Humphrey Berney and is set to be a beautiful and intimate event. Doors open at 6:30pm for refreshments. Tickets are available at £15 per person, which includes refreshments. Money will go towards the urgent repair work on the roof of this beautiful Grade 1 listed building.

Concert is now SOLD OUT!

Come and join us for the annual tradition of the Christingle service! Everything needed will be provided, including oranges, candles, ribbon, sweets, lots of fun and laughter, and a wonderful beginning to the Christmas season. Loved by children and adults alike, this candlelit celebration is a fabulous way to help bring light and hope to children living in poverty in this country, through the work of the Children’s Society. Biscuits and drinks are served afterwards.

For more details on what Christingle is all about, check out the website: www.christingle.org

A special service to mark Advent Sunday, with seasonal readings and hymns.

Simple refreshments available after the service.

Norfolk Churches Trust's Annual Bike Ride is a great way to raise money to support our county's churches, and have fun while doing so! Visit as many churches as you can during the day - on foot, on bike, on horseback, canoe, or any other way you want to. Make sure you keep a note of the churches you visit, take loads of photos, and you might win a prize! Get your friends to sponsor you and then we will share the money you raise with a church of your choice. Over the years we have raised over £2million.

John is inviting sponsorship on behalf of Mulbarton Church via his JustGiving page here:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/John-Federl2

Thanks to all those participtaing in the ride/walk/drive and also serving refreshments and welcoming people at the churches.  Let's hope it's a great day.

"Beating the Bounds" is an ancient tradition and, for us, a great opportunity to walk around our villages together, praying for our neighbours, the land, the crops, the work of local farmers and all the activities which make up our village life.

All welcome to meet on the verge outside Hethel Church at 2.30 pm to begin our walk. Dogs welcome too!

Tea and cakes on our return at 4.30 pm.

Christians believe that Jesus died at 3pm on that terrible but wonderful day 2000 years ago, the day we remember on Good Friday.  So this event commemorates his last 60 minutes as a man on Planet Earth.

NB: Updates through the 7 stages will be posted on our Facebook Page as we progress!

https://www.facebook.com/Mulbchurch

We meet at the Village Sign on the north of the Common, and will walk with the cross past almost every house in the village, coming back to the village sign, where we will erect a cross, hear some Bible readings, say some prayers and sing a song.

Covid safety allowing, we hope to serve hot cross buns in Harvest House afterwards.

Anyone is welcome to join us for the whole walk, for a part of it, or meet us at about noon at the village sign for the public act of worship, or in Harvest House for a bun!

The route we will walk is shown below, so you can work out roughly when to expect us, if you want to join as we walk past your house.

The Diocese of Norwich has recently embraced a new Vision: Transformed by Christ: Prayerful, Pastoral, Prophetic. So, to support our ‘Prayerful’ focus in the Vision’s first year, I’m offering a prayer a day during this Lenten season. Once again, because I’ve decided to include the six Sundays of Lent (and to end with Easter Day itself), that’s actually 47 (not 40) prayers!
 
How have I chosen the prayers? Well, some of my choices have been triggered by special days in the calendar or by biblical readings set for that day. Others have emerged out of what’s going on in the world around us. I’ve deliberately spread the net wide and drawn on prayers from across the globe, centuries and traditions. Each prayer will be accompanied by a reflection, an image and often by a musical setting too.

• • Sign up here.

The word "tenebrae" comes from the Latin meaning "darkness" or "shadows". The Tenebrae is an ancient Christian Holy Week service that makes use of gradually diminishing light through the extinguishing of candles to symbolize the events of that week from the triumphant Palm Sunday entry through Jesus' burial.

This increasing darkness symbolizes the approaching darkness of Jesus' death and of hopelessness in the world without God. The service concludes in darkness, with a final candle, representing Christ, carried out of the church, symbolizing the death of Jesus.

It is a simple service, with 6 candles, 8 readings, some music and some silence.  A loud noise may also sound symbolizing the closing of Jesus' tomb. The worshipers then leave in silence to ponder the events of Holy Week, the impact of Christ's death and the expectation of the coming Resurrection.    

The Diocese of Norwich has recently embraced a new Vision: Transformed by Christ: Prayerful, Pastoral, Prophetic. So, to support our ‘Prayerful’ focus in the Vision’s first year, I’m offering a prayer a day during this Lenten season. Once again, because I’ve decided to include the six Sundays of Lent (and to end with Easter Day itself), that’s actually 47 (not 40) prayers!
 
How have I chosen the prayers? Well, some of my choices have been triggered by special days in the calendar or by biblical readings set for that day. Others have emerged out of what’s going on in the world around us. I’ve deliberately spread the net wide and drawn on prayers from across the globe, centuries and traditions. Each prayer will be accompanied by a reflection, an image and often by a musical setting too.

• • Sign up here.

The Diocese of Norwich has recently embraced a new Vision: Transformed by Christ: Prayerful, Pastoral, Prophetic. So, to support our ‘Prayerful’ focus in the Vision’s first year, I’m offering a prayer a day during this Lenten season. Once again, because I’ve decided to include the six Sundays of Lent (and to end with Easter Day itself), that’s actually 47 (not 40) prayers!
 
How have I chosen the prayers? Well, some of my choices have been triggered by special days in the calendar or by biblical readings set for that day. Others have emerged out of what’s going on in the world around us. I’ve deliberately spread the net wide and drawn on prayers from across the globe, centuries and traditions. Each prayer will be accompanied by a reflection, an image and often by a musical setting too.

• • Sign up here.

Crumpets, teacakes, lashings of butter and lots of sticky sweetness, teas and coffees.

Come along any time between 2pm and 5pm for our popup Sunday afternoon cafe at Hethel Church.  All welcome!

The Diocese of Norwich has recently embraced a new Vision: Transformed by Christ: Prayerful, Pastoral, Prophetic. So, to support our ‘Prayerful’ focus in the Vision’s first year, I’m offering a prayer a day during this Lenten season. Once again, because I’ve decided to include the six Sundays of Lent (and to end with Easter Day itself), that’s actually 47 (not 40) prayers!
 
How have I chosen the prayers? Well, some of my choices have been triggered by special days in the calendar or by biblical readings set for that day. Others have emerged out of what’s going on in the world around us. I’ve deliberately spread the net wide and drawn on prayers from across the globe, centuries and traditions. Each prayer will be accompanied by a reflection, an image and often by a musical setting too.

• • Sign up here.

The Diocese of Norwich has recently embraced a new Vision: Transformed by Christ: Prayerful, Pastoral, Prophetic. So, to support our ‘Prayerful’ focus in the Vision’s first year, I’m offering a prayer a day during this Lenten season. Once again, because I’ve decided to include the six Sundays of Lent (and to end with Easter Day itself), that’s actually 47 (not 40) prayers!
 
How have I chosen the prayers? Well, some of my choices have been triggered by special days in the calendar or by biblical readings set for that day. Others have emerged out of what’s going on in the world around us. I’ve deliberately spread the net wide and drawn on prayers from across the globe, centuries and traditions. Each prayer will be accompanied by a reflection, an image and often by a musical setting too.

• • Sign up here.

The Diocese of Norwich has recently embraced a new Vision: Transformed by Christ: Prayerful, Pastoral, Prophetic. So, to support our ‘Prayerful’ focus in the Vision’s first year, I’m offering a prayer a day during this Lenten season. Once again, because I’ve decided to include the six Sundays of Lent (and to end with Easter Day itself), that’s actually 47 (not 40) prayers!
 
How have I chosen the prayers? Well, some of my choices have been triggered by special days in the calendar or by biblical readings set for that day. Others have emerged out of what’s going on in the world around us. I’ve deliberately spread the net wide and drawn on prayers from across the globe, centuries and traditions. Each prayer will be accompanied by a reflection, an image and often by a musical setting too.

• • Sign up here.

A Special service marking the beginning of Lent, in contemporary language, with traditional hymns. There will be opportunity to receive ash daubed on the forehead, and also to receive communion.

Our tea and crumpet stall is open in church! In fact, it was the toasted teacakes that flew off the shelves in January, so if you prefer, they'll be available too. Both with, of course, lashings of butter, honey, golden syrup, jam - whatever. 2pm to 5pm.

The weather looks good, so come for a pleasant afternoon stroll and break your journey with refreshments in a warm church with soothing music wafting round. You may even wish to say a prayer for world peace while you're here – the Church of England has asked all churches to make Sunday a day of prayer for peace. We'll put some resources out to make it easy for you to spend a few moments at the front in silent prayer if (and only if) you wish.

We'll also be serving on Sunday 27 March. This happens to be Mothering Sunday and there'll be some traditional simnel cake for mums of all ages.

Crumpets, teacakes, lashings of butter and lots of sticky sweetness, teas and coffees.

Come along any time between 2pm and 5pm for our popup Sunday afternoon cafe at Hethel Church.  All welcome!

Leaders: TBC

Leaders: Adrian

A chocolate bar nativity this year, with familiar children's carols.  Join in person or remotely via Zoom

https://zoom.us/j/993672961?pwd=ZENTc1VqYTUrOE9wQ094enBJV2VaZz09

Alternatively https://zoom.us/j/993672961

Meeting ID: 993 672 961  Passcode: 123 

Traditional Christmas Carols, nativity readings and prayers.

Join us for drinks and nibbles, a mardle and a chat in the newly refurbished social club.  Lifts are available.

Traditional 7 lessons and 7 carols - all welcome

Masks are required for the service with the recent changes in covid safety guidance.

Our carols by candlelight service is going ahead, despire the COVID situation having changed a bit in the last few days.

First, the Mulbarton Community Choir committee has decided that it would be unwise to sing or practice at all over the next few weeks, a decision which we completely respect. So they won't be singing for us on Sunday, or in the Mulbarton village event on the 19th.

We will follow all government guidelines for the event, which principally amounts to face coverings being required at all times except when eating and drinking (we plan to go ahead with drinks and mince pies afterwards).

If you have booked but are uneasy about coming, again, the decision is yours. If you can let me know, please do, but now that the choir en masse is no longer coming, I doubt we will be short of seats and in need of rebooking any no longer needed.

Whatever, the church has been beautifully decorated and is open for visits at any time.

Incredibly talented Clarinet-Guitar-bass trio - energy and vibrancy not to be missed

A Christmas concert with jazz and a Latin twist, featuring renowned local clarinettist Nelly Rodriguez

Tickets £10

Cheque/cash payment at the door

Refreshments with a Spanish flavour included in the ticket price!

Come and join us for the annual tradition of the Christingle service! Everything needed will be provided, including oranges, candles, ribbon, sweets, lots of fun and laughter, and a wonderful beginning to the Christmas season. Loved by children and adults alike, this candlelit celebration is a fabulous way to help bring light and hope to children living in poverty in this country, through the work of the Children’s Society. Biscuits and drinks are served afterwards.

For more details on what Christingle is all about, check out the website: www.christingle.org

A special service to mark Advent Sunday, with seasonal readings and hymns.

Join us for drinks and nibbles, a mardle and a chat in the newly refurbished social club.  Lifts are available.

Nationwide quiz in aid of Tearfund, the aim to raise 50 million people out of poverty.

This year, Tearfund hopes to bring the total raised above £1million - please join in and support this effort, while having a fun night in!
Teams of up to six, £5 per person suggested donation to be given via your local church, marked "Tearfund Quiz", or using Tearfund's own JustGiving page:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/BQN21Livestream

Zoom room opens at 7:15 for a 7:45 start.
For covid safety reasons, and because bigger venues are fully booked, we have decided not to meet in person this year, but to go ahead remotely.  Please do bring drinks and snacks to your device and join the fun!

You can sign up to join the Zoom quiz by clicking on this link.

Contact tim@mulbchurch.org.uk for more details.

This year, to keep as safe as possible with regard to covid, and especially in view of the commendable growth in the Mulbarton scouting sections, we are seeking to spread the opportunities to remember around different churches.  We are planning the following Remembrance events, to which all are welcome:

• 10am Remembrance Sunday Service at Mulbarton Church, to which Mulbarton cubs, scouts and explorers are also invited.
• 10:30am Remembrance Sunday Service at Flordon Church, to which rainbows, brownies, guides and rangers are also invited.
• 10:55am Remembrance Sunday Service at Swardeston Church, to which Mulbarton beavers are also invited.
• 10:45am Outdoor Remembrance at Bracon Ash and Hethel war memorial, outside Bracon Ash and Hethel Village Hall, all welcome

A simple act of remembrance for the fallen of Mulbarton, with a 2-minute silence at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month.

A time to pray for COP26. A framework of intercession plus silence for your own prayer.

All welcome.

Join us for a special service, as we remember those we have loved and lost.

With traditional hymns and an opportunity to light a candle in memory of a lost loved one, this is a special benefice occasion, as we continue to pray our goodbyes.  If you would like a name read out during the service, there will be someone writing down names at the door as you come in, or you can let Adrian know ahead of time.

There will be a new resource available on the night to buy at a discounted price of £12 - "Scent of Water", by Penelope Swithinbank.

When the words won’t come and perhaps God seems far away; when the grief threatens to overwhelm. There are daily devotionals to dip into, beautiful photos for reflection, meditations to ponder. And a section for those special days such as the day of the funeral, the first Christmas or the first anniversary. It’s produced as a lovely hardback book. And it’s dyslexic friendly.

It’s been described as

'A simple, non- demanding devotional, of maybe a single line from scripture and a word that spoke into my pain …. Alongside her heart cries are the gentle words of God, the reassurances, the moments of strength for the weary soul, the thankfulness. It is just so beautifully moving to read. And to return to, over and over again.'

'Your short reflections and lovely illustrations are just what I need as I recover…’ 

Refreshments will be served after the service.

We welcome Frances and Michael Holmes back to Flordon to give us another of their interesting and entertaining talks:

Admission: suggested donation of £5 includes a glass of wine and nibbles.  Please book with Janet.

In 1900 trams arrived on Norwich’s streets. They were greeted with awe as a technological wonder that not only revolutionised travel but also radically changed the City. Using a combination of images, archive material and contemporary accounts Frances & Michael Holmes will illustrate that the story of the trams is about so much more than a vehicle – It is the story of how that vehicle transformed our city. 

Harvest Thanksgiving for Hethel and Bracon Ash will be on 3 October at 11am followed by Harvest Lunch afterwards in the church.

The Jolly Farmers (Forncett St Mary) will deliver a choice of hot dishes as happened very successfully in 2018 and there will be several home-made puddings on offer. Two courses, a glass of wine, tea or coffee afterwards, with reduced prices for children.

Suggested donation shared between church funds and Tear Fund: adults £14.50; children 5—14 £7.50; 4 and under free.

Tickets on sale soon - please contact Peter to book your place at the lunch.

Come to the service and not to lunch, if you like, or lunch but not the service. Obviously we'd encourage both! Giving thanks to God for the abundant life he offers us is at the heart of all that we do here, as is homely hospitality.

The annual churchyard mow and drag-off starts soon.

It is an annual tea-and-cake-fuelled ritual that has enabled the wildflower churchyard to flourish over the past thirty years

Sundays 12, 19 and 26 September this year from about 2pm, finishing around 5pm, with refreshments served around 3:30pm.

Wymondham Nature Group lead us and provide a lot of person-power but it's important that we who benefit do our bit as well so if you can spare an afternoon, do please come. Rakes and pitchforks provided, just bring yourself, a sense of humour and a bit of energy – it doesn't have to be much.

Our first Sunday service back in Hanover Lounge since February 2020, nineteen months ago!

It is also our first Harvest service of the season, in which we receive gifts for Norwich foodbank, and any monetary donations will go to support the good work being done by our mission partner, Tearfund.

It is important that we continue to be mindful about the risk of coronavirus, and do what we can to keep as safe as possible.  To this end, we will keep the lounge as well ventilated as we can, and will arrange the seating to allow as much space between people as possible.

We ask that people do wear masks.  We are advised that mask-wearing is the most significant action we can take to mitigate the spread of the virus, when meeting indoors.

We will be serving refreshments in the lounge after the service - hot drinks and biscuits - and have thought about how to do this as safely as possible.

It will be a joy to be together again after such a long break, and we look forward to re-engaging with the simplicty, comfort, friendship and meaningful God moments we have come to expect with Church @ Hanover.

The annual churchyard mow and drag-off starts soon.

It is an annual tea-and-cake-fuelled ritual that has enabled the wildflower churchyard to flourish over the past thirty years

Sundays 12, 19 and 26 September this year from about 2pm, finishing around 5pm, with refreshments served around 3:30pm.

Wymondham Nature Group lead us and provide a lot of person-power but it's important that we who benefit do our bit as well so if you can spare an afternoon, do please come. Rakes and pitchforks provided, just bring yourself, a sense of humour and a bit of energy – it doesn't have to be much.

The annual churchyard mow and drag-off starts soon.

It is an annual tea-and-cake-fuelled ritual that has enabled the wildflower churchyard to flourish over the past thirty years

Sundays 12, 19 and 26 September this year from about 2pm, finishing around 5pm, with refreshments served around 3:30pm.

Wymondham Nature Group lead us and provide a lot of person-power but it's important that we who benefit do our bit as well so if you can spare an afternoon, do please come. Rakes and pitchforks provided, just bring yourself, a sense of humour and a bit of energy – it doesn't have to be much.

Norfolk Churches Trust's Annual Bike Ride is a great way to raise money to support our county's churches, and have fun while doing so! Visit as many churches as you can during the day - on foot, on bike, on horseback, canoe, or any other way you want to. Make sure you keep a note of the churches you visit, take loads of photos, and you might win a prize! Get your friends to sponsor you and then we will share the money you raise with a church of your choice. Over the years we have raised over £2million, and in 2020 we raised an amazing £175,000. More than in any other year. Let's see if we can beat this in 2021!

Alice is riding for Bracon Ash Church - please do sponsor her directly if you would like to do so.

John and Gavin are inviting sponsorship on behalf of Mulbarton Church via their JustGiving pages here:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/John-Federl1

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Gavin-Federl1

Thanks to all those participtaing in the ride/walk/drive and also serving refreshments and welcoming people at the churches.  Let's hope it's a great day.

Home-made scones, jam and clotted cream, plus new individual teapots or coffee made as you like it.

Every Sunday afternoon in August.

A special invitation to anybody who is grieving or has experienced a loss over lockdown.

Mulbarton Church will remain open during daylight hours throughout the summer break, and we are making a special set of resources available for people to come and pray their goodbyes.  You may have said goodbye to a loved one over lockdown, or you may be grieving a loss of another kind.  Your local church is here to provide space for you to respond to these inevitable but unwelcome goodbyes.

• Palm crosses to hang on the church railings in memory
• Candles to light inside the church in memory
• Space in the church for private prayer &/or stillness
• Printed resources available to browse in the church
• Online resources signposted to help in your grief journey

On Sunday 22 Aug, we will gather the palm crosses, which will have collected on the railings and pray over them in the morning service, inviting God to help with all the loss they represent.

Donwload Jill Wright's DIY service for use at home, along with topical readings for the summer by clicking here.

A brilliant pot of help and signposting for anyone who has experienced loss: https://www.ataloss.org/

The Church of England offers help to those bereaved: https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/funerals/after-funeral/journey-through-grief

NB: Sorry, folks, the weather forecast is terrible for Sunday morning, and indoors is not safe enough, so picnic cancelled...

Service Sheet to follow along at home available by clicking here

We are doing something special to mark the first Sunday after legal covid restrictions are lifted, and incorporating godparent Sunday and national picnic month.  Why not join in?

The Great God-Family Picnic is a perfect day for families, godparents, godchildren and the whole family of God to:

• Thank God for special peope in our lives, young and old
• Celebrate new life and new families that have formed over these last 15 months of lockdown
• Get together with godparents and godchildren
• Pray for one another
• Remember the amazing journey of faith we share

Please do come and join us:

11am, Mulbarton Church - A cheerful celebration of new life for all ages

12noon, Mulbarton Common & Harvest House - Bring your own picnic - toilet and baby changing facilities available at Harvest House

Continue the amazing journey

churchofenglandchristenings.org

All Saints, Hethel has organised a ‘Celebration of Creation’ weekend on 26-27 June, 2021 to which all in the locality are welcome.

The weekend will begin at 4.15am with a short walk to enjoy the burning sunrise followed by a leisurely wander listening for birdsong with local ornithologist Mike Harvey.

Brother Sam, past leader of the European Province of the Society of Saint Francis, will also join the weekend. Many people will have heard of St Francis of Assisi who had an extraordinary ability to commune with nature, to see its beauty and to sense the interconnectedness of all things under God. On Saturday, Brother Sam will read St Francis’ “swansong”, Canticle of the Creatures, after sunrise; he will give a keynote talk and lead a ‘Five Senses Walk’ in the afternoon as well as preaching on Sunday and repeating the walk.

On Saturday evening the building will be cleared for a ceilidh – the first ever so far as is known! – led by Suffolk band Skylarking, while Sunday also offers a walk with eminent naturalist Dr Anne Edwards BEM.

Throughout the weekend Hethel church will house an ‘exhibition of beauty’: photographs, paintings, craft objects, flower arrangements, fragrances and music.

Hethel Church is one of only two churches in the county to have achieved Silver standard in the national EcoChurch scheme. There will be a display explaining the scheme and how Hethel ticked the necessary boxes.

We pray that this weekend will be a lot of fun and will help us all to rejoice at the natural beauty that surrounds us: from Hethel Churchyard, full of wildflowers and associated prolific insect life in late June, to the exhibition and the music and dancing of the ceilidh. Having Brother Sam SSF help us explore the spiritual side of creation care is a massive bonus. Co-author of the recently published ‘Seeing Differently’, he’s a national figure who speaks widely and participates in online seminars such as St Paul’s Cathedral’s recent ‘Is Covid-19 a wake up call to us?’ We expect to be challenged as well as interested and encouraged!”

Action headlines!

• We want more entries to the exhibition of beauty. Have you taken photos of a beautiful place? A beautiful aspect of nature? Have you painted or drawn something? Love a particular piece of music for its beauty? Can create a beautiful or highly fragrant flower arrangement? Please get in touch.
• If you would like to find out more about Franciscan spirituality, come to an informal lunch with Brother Sam (12.30 Saturday 26^th) and ideally stay for his talk afterwards.
• Or you could go for a Five Senses walk with Br. Sam and learn about how the natural world connects us to God.
• In 2020, the sunrise was clear, staggeringly beautiful and quite moving. Get up at 4am and join us in hope in 2021. Brother Sam will recite what is subtitled the Canticle to Brother Sun, reminding us of our connections with nature and through it with God. Birds and breakfast follow!
• If you want to encounter some unusual and beautiful insects or flowers, join Dr Anne Edwards on Sunday 27^th
• Celebrate and give thanks through music and dance – ceilidh and pizza with us on Saturday evening, not often seen in a 12^th century Norfolk church!
• Join us for a service at 9am in Bracon Ash Church or 4.30pm on Sunday, both with Br. Sam SSF.

More information and how to book for certain events is on the church website www.acny.org.uk/hethel.

COVID-19 update: If on 21.6.21 all restrictions are not lifted as expected on the ‘roadmap’, most activities can legally go ahead with minimal change. If it proves impossible to hold the ceilidh, tickets bought will be reimbursed, or it will happen later in the year as a stand-alone event.

Brother Samuel SSF was Guardian of Hillfield Friary for many years, where he led the Hillfield Project on living in an ecologically sustainable way following St Francis’ vision of creation. It is now a mixed community of professed religious brothers and lay men and women, young, old, married and single. Br. Sam has been Minister of the European Province of the Society of Saint Francis (SSF) and in 2016 his outstanding service was recognised by Archbishop Justin through the Dunstan Award for Prayer and the Religious Life. With his Franciscan co-authors, Br. Sam’s 2021 book, Seeing Differently explores and explains how Franciscans see creation.

Dr Anne Edwards BEM is a plant scientist based at the John Innes Centre who was the first person in the UK to identify Ash Dieback disease in England. Anne also works on grass pea, one of the oldest known crops, seeking to develop a toxin-free variety that can be used as a main crop by smallholder farmers in Europe, Africa and the Indian sub-continent. In 2015 Anne was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the environment. For three decades, she has advised on and, with a team of volunteers, managed Hethel’s biodiversity-award-winning churchyard.

Mike Harvey spent many years travelling the world working for Cable and Wireless, which gave him the opportunity to specialise in the birds of the West Indies, and, later, birds in West Africa. Since retirement he has made numerous visits to see the birds of Europe. He has volunteered with Norfolk Wildlife Trust for over a decade, leading monthly wildlife walks in different places all over the county. He also grows cacti at home! It is not surprising that he can modestly claim familiarity “with the songs of most of our birds here in Norfolk”.

Eco Church is the award scheme for churches in England and Wales who want to demonstrate that the gospel is good news for God’s earth. An online survey asks probing questions about how a church looks after buildings and land; about its engagement with its local community and global campaigns; and about the personal lifestyles of the congregation.

By Sunday 23rd (all being well) up to 30 of us can legally gather out of doors.

We'll meet at church at 2.30pm, then wander the byways and boundaries of Hethel and Bracon Ash, stopping here and there to pray for the people, practices and pastimes of the place, asking God for peace and prosperity.

There will be tea and cake outside Hethel church afterwards.

Leaders: Adrian

To attend in person, please contact Tom, the churchwarden, to reserve your place. Numbers may need to be limited.

Alternatively, you can attend in the normal covid-times way, via Zoom, watch live on Facebook, or catch up on YouTube or the church website at a later date:

Zoom: Direct Link Zoom ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123

Facebook Livestream: https://www.facebook.com/Mulbchurch

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWd36jN_13ZrdtxOIg92Qsg

Leaders: Jill

No need to book. Access live via Zoom or Facebook - or catch up later via YouTube or the church website. Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/993672961?pwd=ZENTc1VqYTUrOE9wQ094enBJV2VaZz09 Zoom ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123 Facebook Livestream: https://www.facebook.com/Mulbchurch YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWd36jN_13ZrdtxOIg92Qsg

Leaders: Peter & Adrian

To attend in person, please contact Tom, the churchwarden, to reserve your place. Numbers may need to be limited.

Alternatively, you can attend in the normal covid-times way, via Zoom, watch live on Facebook, or catch up on YouTube or the church website at a later date:

Zoom: Direct Link Zoom ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123

Facebook Livestream: https://www.facebook.com/Mulbchurch

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWd36jN_13ZrdtxOIg92Qsg

To book your craft bags and/or a place in person at Mulbarton Church for this service please click here

Please note later than normal time - 11am start!

We welcome all ages to join us either in person (masks, social distancing, sanitation) - or via Zoom, for an hour of engaging interactive Easter worship.

Craft bags are available to those who would like to make “paper plate Easter gardens”.

Please click the link above to let us know how many bags you would like and whether you’ll be attending in person or remotely.

To book your place at Bracon Ash Church for this service please click here

Join us in person for the lighting of the Paschal Candle, and a traditional modern language Easter service of Holy Communion.

Please wear masks and observe social distancing and sanitation. There will be no congregational singing, but music and singing will be played.

To book your place at Hethel Church for this service please click here

Christians believe that Jesus died at 3pm on that terrible but wonderful day 2000 years ago, the day we remember on Good Friday.  So this event commemorates his last 60 minutes as a man on Planet Earth.

Cathy is leading what we are sure will be a deeply moving hour.

Join in remotely with this short service to mark the occasion.

No need to book.  Click this link to join the Zoom meeting, or use the Zoom meeting details below:

Zoom ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123

Alternatively, watch the live stream on our benefice Facebook Page, here: facebook.com/Mulbchurch

To book your place at Flordon Church for this service please click here

The word "tenebrae" comes from the Latin meaning "darkness" or "shadows". The Tenebrae is an ancient Christian Holy Week service that makes use of gradually diminishing light through the extinguishing of candles to symbolize the events of that week from the triumphant Palm Sunday entry through Jesus' burial.

This increasing darkness symbolizes the approaching darkness of Jesus' death and of hopelessness in the world without God. The service concludes in darkness, with a final candle, representing Christ, carried out of the church, symbolizing the death of Jesus.

It is a simple service, with 7 candles, 8 readings, some music and some silence.  A loud noise may also sound symbolizing the closing of Jesus' tomb. The worshipers then leave in silence to ponder the events of Holy Week, the impact of Christ's death and the expectation of the coming Resurrection.  

If you would like to join in remotely this year as part of your personal Holy Week devotions, at a time to suit you, you can watch last year's Zoom-streamed service on the benefice YouTube channel or right here:

If you would like to follow along at home with a paper copy of the service sheet, you can download one here.

Join us by Zoom on Mothering Sunday for a special interactive and creative session for all ages, celebrating motherhood, using craft, music and interactive prayers.

We will be focusing on the story of baby Moses, placed in a basket among the bulrushes and adopted into Pharoah's family.

Please get in touch with Cathy ASAP to ask for a bag with craft bits to make your Moses basket, which will be delivered to you ahead of the service.  You will need pens/pencils, sellotape and scissors, but everything else will be provided.

Children are also invited to make a Mothering Sunday card ahead of time, to be given to their mums during the session.

We do hope you can join in as a family, and look forward to seeing you there.  Zoom details:

https://zoom.us/j/993672961?pwd=ZENTc1VqYTUrOE9wQ094enBJV2VaZz09

Meeting ID: 993 672 961  Passcode: 123

Pop into Bracon Ash Church some time during the week, where you will find resources to help you and your family engage with the season.

The story will unfold week by week.

The church is open every day during daylight hours for private prayer and contemplation.

 - Short Service: 2pm on Sunday 27 December for 30 minutes. A service with some readings and Andrew North playing some Christmas music at Bracon Ash. Social distance to be kept. If anyone is on there own or in a family unit and feel they want to come along you are all welcome.     

10am Benefice Service on Zoom led by Cathy Nicholls
(Zoom Meeting ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123.  https://zoom.us/j/993672961)

10am Benefice service on Zoom led by Derrick Hill
(Zoom Meeting ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123.  https://zoom.us/j/993672961)

Contact Caroline (admin@mulbchurch) for more details

10am Benefice service on Zoom "Being expectant people" led by Bev and Sam Theobald
(Zoom Meeting ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123.  https://zoom.us/j/993672961)

Contact Caroline (admin@mulbchurch) for more details

Service of Remembrance:

'Lockdown': Armistice Sunday's outdoor services are going ahead:  Click here for Service Sheet with talk/reflections 

10.45am in Mulbarton Churchyard
An open-air service (approx. 30 mins), led by Jill Wright.
You are welcome to bring an umbrella and garden chair, if you wish.

Masks need to be worn at this service

The 11am 'Last Post' will be streamed live on Facebook (Mulbarton Community noticeboard).

Service of Remembrance

'Lockdown': Armistice Sunday's outdoor services are going ahead.

An open-air service for the villages of Bracon Ash, Hethel and Flordon, led by Peter Nicholls.

You are welcome to bring an umbrella and garden chair, if you wish.

Hethel Church will be open for any who wish to remember loved-ones who have died - candles to light, prayer cards, and a space to stop and reflect. Hosted by Cathy and Peter Nicholls.

2.30pm to 4.30pm All Saints' Church, Hethel.

10am Benefice Service on Zoom led by Derrick Hill. (Zoom Meeting ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123.  https://zoom.us/j/993672961)

Service of Remembrance
An open-air service for the villages of Bracon Ash, Hethel and Flordon, led by Peter Nicholls.

You are welcome to bring an umbrella and garden chair, if you wish.

 Please text Janet on 07747 179141 or email  admin@mulbchurch.org.uk if you wish to attend.

Service sheet download : also available at church on the day.

This Service will be recorded and available later on our website (Download the Service sheet to use with this recoding).

10am Service on Zoom led by Derrick Hill. (Zoom Meeting ID: 993 672 961 Passcode: 123.  https://zoom.us/j/993672961)

2.30pm to 4.30pm All Saints' Church, Hethel. The church will be open for any who wish to remember loved-ones who have died - candles to light, prayer cards, and a space to stop and reflect.

Join us via Zoom for a special celebration service, at which we recall how the Holy Spirit is sent from  the Father and the Son to live within us and help us.  All welcome via the Zoom link below.

Click this link to join the Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/993672961

Meeting ID: 993 672 961

Or phone in to listen live, using this phone number: 203 481 5240

Download and use some worship, devotional and craft resources, to explore Pentecost with your children, at this remarkable time of year.

These links will each open in new windows when you click on them.  Alternatively right click and select "Save Link As..." to download them for printing.

Craft Sheet

Activity Sheet

Children's Sheet

Colouring Sheet

A global wave of prayer from Ascension Day to Pentecost

For 11 days, Christians from all denominations around the world commit to spending special time in prayer for the people they know as well as the whole world as we shine a light on the darkness of this world.  This finishes on the Day of Pentecost  - the great celebration of the coming of the promised Holy Spirit.  This has been happening for a few years now but this year is a bit different – for obvious reasons!  To celebrate Christians joining in prayer this year we are combining forces, and encouraging everyone to join in with opportunities locally, in the deanery (collection of local churches, from Hingham to Cringleford) as well as the wider diocese, and national and global church.

Find out more on the dedicated website: https://www.thykingdomcome.global

We are invited to pray with Christians worldwide for God’s Spirit to empower OURSELVES to be witnesses for Jesus Christ and for OTHER PEOPLE to come to know Jesus. Each day there is a theme – pray about that theme for YOURSELF and for OTHERS (maybe 5 – friends, family, neighbours) that they may be drawn closer to Jesus. Readings are added to help you think about each theme.

Ascension Day – BELONGING   (Ephesians 1 verses 3 to 8)

Friday 22nd – GRACE  (Ephesians 2 verses 8 to 10)

Saturday 23rd – COURAGE  (Joshua 1 verses 7 to 9)

Sunday 24th – WISDOM  (Proverbs 2 verses 1 to 6)

Monday 25th – JOY  (Psalm 98)

Tuesday 26th – COMPASSION  (Luke 15 verses 11 to 24)

Wed 27th - FORGIVENESS  (Matthew 18 verses 21 to 35)

Thur 28th – HEALING  (Revelation 21 verses 3 & 4  and chapter 22 verses 1 to 5)

Fri 29th – HOPE  (Titus 3 verses 3 to 8 & Romans 15 v. 13)

Saturday 30th - PEACE  (Philippians 4 verses 6 & 7)

Pentecost Sunday – LOVE (John 13 verses 34 & 35; also 1st letter of John 4 verses 8 to 11 & 1 Corinthians 13)

So, what's actually happening?!?

Online Daily Prayer

Over the Deanery and Diocese we can offer the following to connect with:

Mulbarton Church

You can join in with Morning Prayer 9:15am-9:45am Monday to Thursday. Bring a coffee. Opportunity to connect, discuss a Bible passage and say some prayers, for half an hour each day of the week. Zoom Meeting ID: 878 150 264

Hethersett Church

Most Weekdays at 1030 a Short act of Morning Prayer can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/hethersettchurch

Hingham and High Oak

Midday Prayer at 12 noon each day can be found on https://www.facebook.com/High-Oak-Hingham-429396720821739

Diocesan Compline

Join Bishop Graham, assisted by others, at 9pm every night of this period for Compline. 

Compline will be held every evening starting on Thursday 21 May (Ascension Day) until (and including) Saturday 30 May.

Zoom meeting link: https://zoom.us/j/95501245043?pwd=eHpDOGpiTmY4TmRYME1Tb21pM0VWQT09

Meeting ID: 955 0124 5043

Password: 955067

Liturgy can be found here: https://www.dioceseofnorwich.org/app/uploads/2020/05/Compline-The-Kingdom-Come-2020.pdf

Humbleyard Deanery Day of Prayer:

As a deanery we are asking people to sign up to slots to pray.  We are concentrating this on the 12 hours between 9am and 9pm on the day before Pentecost, Sat 30 May, as we aim to wait with the disciples.  You can pray however you would like to – that might be doing a prayer walk around your area, opening up the Pentecost Story and asking God to work like that once more, sitting in silence, colouring, drawing, listening to music…however you pray – pray. 

To encourage us all, Graham in Cringleford has kindly put up a sign up sheet to try to make sure we can cover all 12 hours – more than one person can sign up for each slot!  The link is: https://www.24-7prayer.com/signup/7da813

We are then inviting people to join in with the Diocesan Compline at 9pm (see above) whenever their slot was or even if they didn’t have a slot!

Prayer and Reflection Resources

Susanna Gunner, the Diocese Director for Prayer and Spirituality is producing daily reflections for this period to guide us through and encourage us to pray.  These can be found here:

https://www.dioceseofnorwich.org/resource/ascension-to-pentecost-reflections

Cringleford Church plan to post some short interactive prayers suitable for all ages on https://www.facebook.com/STPsCringleford - these will be put up at various times during the week.

There is also a very good app which not only includes a daily Podcast by former Bishop of Durham Tom Wright but also a Family Podcast to help all the family pray.  Search for ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ on your devices App Store.  It also has daily prayers on it.

Something for the Younger Ones (Or young at heart!)

Finally there is an interactive map and VR game for mobile devices available!  This is really fun (especially enjoyable is the sheep game) but also great at helping to get people thinking about prayer.  You need to print the map off from https://www.thykingdomcome.global/resources/digital-family-prayer-adventure-map (where there is also instructions!) and download the app by searching ‘TKC MAP AR’ in your app store.

We began with an introductory session on Tuesday 21st April, with the course starting properly this week, 28th April.  Course books are required for the 28th, but not for the introductory session.

The first session tackles the topic of "The problem of emotional unhealthy spirituality".

This course is a safe and simple way to practice slowing down to be with Jesus, and to look underneath the surface of what is going on in our lives.  There is no pressure to participate in any way that would be uncomfortable - it is very much the sort of thing that you will get out what you put in, and you can engage with it on whatever level fits where you are.  The course draws from significant age-old streams of Christian thinking and insight, and offers practical insights into how we can apply that thinking to deepen our own devotional lives.

The Paperback Book on Amazon

The Course Workbook on Amazon

The 40-Day Devotional on Amazon (or for a cheaper solution, the Kindle edition of the 40-day devotional on Amazon)

Or feel free to search other book-sellers, including the Christian Eden website.

I invited people in leadership positions throughout the benefice to work through this course with me in Autumn 2019.  Seventeen people from our group of churches participated in the 8-week course.  From the feedback given, here are some of the things they found helpful:

• Good fellowship and good company - great way to connect with others
• Helpful group "rules" that made for a truly safe space to explore the nitty-gritty of our lives (but no compulsion) and to deepen understanding of how to walk with Jesus
• A range of learning materials to embed and reinforce the teaching
• Genuinely helpful input on Sabbath and daily offices
• Forty days of devotionals that gave achievable, balanced, rich times of waiting on God in 10-minute chunks
• Guilt-free rhythms of praying
• Help to be intentional and embrace the commitment needed to deepen a walk with God
• Searching material, helping both to understand oneself better and to develop better devotional habits and emotional health
• Greater peace and freedom that has lasted

Here's what one participant had to say: "I found the course very helpful in establishing a good, flexible 'routine' of quality time with God on my own, along with a mindfulness of God during my days - feeling generally closer and connected.  The EHS book, Day by Day readings and workbook were all helpful, along with the discussion times and DVD.  In the meetings I found it helpful to hear about other peoples' experiences and felt comfortable to share my own, but never felt pressured or pushed to share more than I wanted to.  I even felt free not to share at all.  I had been concerned that I might feel 'exposed' in a group setting, especially as I didn't know some of the group members very well.  I can imagine that, using the suggested format, along with the 'rules', I would be able to join any group of people without feeling at all 'threatened'. I would say to anyone contemplating doing the course to think of it as an opportunity.  It's a wonderful opportunity to discover things about ourselves - negative and positive.  I feel less anxious, fearful and more peaceful than before and I'm really pleased I took the opportunity myself."

If this is something you would like to join in with or find out more about, please do get in touch with me.  If you would like to commit to this course (and I hope many will), please order your books directly, using the links above - or if finances are an issue, please let me know.  Bursaries are available.

The course author explains what it's about here, and what resources you'll need.  Order details are above for ordering directly.

We begin with an introductory session on Tuesday 21st April, with the course starting properly the following week, 28th April.  Course books are required for the 28th, but not for the introductory session.

This course is a safe and simple way to practice slowing down to be with Jesus, and to look underneath the surface of what is going on in our lives.  There is no pressure to participate in any way that would be uncomfortable - it is very much the sort of thing that you will get out what you put in, and you can engage with it on whatever level fits where you are.  The course draws from significant age-old streams of Christian thinking and insight, and offers practical insights into how we can apply that thinking to deepen our own devotional lives.

The Paperback Book on Amazon

The Course Workbook on Amazon

The 40-Day Devotional on Amazon (or for a cheaper solution, the Kindle edition of the 40-day devotional on Amazon)

Or feel free to search other book-sellers, including the Christian Eden website.

I invited people in leadership positions throughout the benefice to work through this course with me in Autumn 2019.  Seventeen people from our group of churches participated in the 8-week course.  From the feedback given, here are some of the things they found helpful:

• Good fellowship and good company - great way to connect with others
• Helpful group "rules" that made for a truly safe space to explore the nitty-gritty of our lives (but no compulsion) and to deepen understanding of how to walk with Jesus
• A range of learning materials to embed and reinforce the teaching
• Genuinely helpful input on Sabbath and daily offices
• Forty days of devotionals that gave achievable, balanced, rich times of waiting on God in 10-minute chunks
• Guilt-free rhythms of praying
• Help to be intentional and embrace the commitment needed to deepen a walk with God
• Searching material, helping both to understand oneself better and to develop better devotional habits and emotional health
• Greater peace and freedom that has lasted

Here's what one participant had to say: "I found the course very helpful in establishing a good, flexible 'routine' of quality time with God on my own, along with a mindfulness of God during my days - feeling generally closer and connected.  The EHS book, Day by Day readings and workbook were all helpful, along with the discussion times and DVD.  In the meetings I found it helpful to hear about other peoples' experiences and felt comfortable to share my own, but never felt pressured or pushed to share more than I wanted to.  I even felt free not to share at all.  I had been concerned that I might feel 'exposed' in a group setting, especially as I didn't know some of the group members very well.  I can imagine that, using the suggested format, along with the 'rules', I would be able to join any group of people without feeling at all 'threatened'. I would say to anyone contemplating doing the course to think of it as an opportunity.  It's a wonderful opportunity to discover things about ourselves - negative and positive.  I feel less anxious, fearful and more peaceful than before and I'm really pleased I took the opportunity myself."

If this is something you would like to join in with or find out more about, please do get in touch with me.  If you would like to commit to this course (and I hope many will), please order your books directly, using the links above - or if finances are an issue, please let me know.  Bursaries are available.

The course author explains what it's about here, and what resources you'll need.  Order details are above for ordering directly.

PLEASE NOTE: Later time than normal for contemporary service this Sunday - 10:30am

A contemporary communion service for Easter Sunday, with modern worship songs.  A breakout children's room will be available for children accessing the Zoom meeting on their own devices.

Topic: Mulbarton Church 10am Zoom Stream
Time: 10:30am, Sun 12 April 2020

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/993672961

Meeting ID: 993 672 961

For resources you can use with children on Easter Sunday, please download and print off from the website here.

A traditional service of worship for Easter Sunday.  Adrian will receive communion on behalf of all.  Tune in via Zoom

https://zoom.us/j/158456441

Zoom Meeting ID: 158 456 441

For resources you can use with children on Easter Sunday, please download and print off from the website here.

An interactive online Zoom meeting, in which we encounter and respond to the 12 stations of the Cross, with artwork, Bible readings, reflections and prayers.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/954447008?pwd=SUFaMEJiUGJEUEltdnhGWEk1NGhBZz09

Meeting ID: 954 447 008
Password: 358780

Our final evening, exploring what has been a remarkably relevant and apt course for such a time as this.  We will explore what it means to make connections in the power of the Holy Spirit, following Jesus' example, by considering further the story of the lame man healed outside the Temple.

To access the meeting, please note you will need a password this time, since Zoom are requiring users to adopt tighter security now.

Topic: Paraclesis 6: Connecting - Discussion Group
Time: Apr 7, 2020 19:30 London

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/306790767?pwd=RkU0M1NaY3Y1ZUJ2aEl6MktsZEpQUT09

Meeting ID: 306 790 767
Password: 858913

Or join by telephone on 0131 460 1196, entering the meeting ID and password on your telephone keypad when prompted.

The word "tenebrae" comes from the Latin meaning "darkness" or "shadows". The Tenebrae is an ancient Christian Holy Week service that makes use of gradually diminishing light through the extinguishing of candles to symbolize the events of that week from the triumphant Palm Sunday entry through Jesus' burial.

This increasing darkness symbolizes the approaching darkness of Jesus' death and of hopelessness in the world without God. The service concludes in darkness, with a final candle, representing Christ, carried out of the church, symbolizing the death of Jesus.

It is a simple service, with 7 candles, 8 readings, some music and some silence.  A loud noise may also sound symbolizing the closing of Jesus' tomb. The worshipers then leave in silence to ponder the events of Holy Week, the impact of Christ's death and the expectation of the coming Resurrection.  

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/936868366

Meeting ID: 936 868 366

If you would like to follow along at home with a paper copy of the service sheet, you can download one here.

Click here to join the Lent course Zoom Meeting, 7:30pm on Tue 31 March 2020:

https://zoom.us/j/236542856
Meeting ID: 236 542 856

Pour yourself a coffee, fire up Zoom, using the link above, and enjoy some fellowship with others, before watching this week's video together, and then splitting into different virtual rooms to discuss the theme.

I look forward to seeing you soon.

REMEMBER: CLOCKS GO FORWARD TONIGHT!

Service tomorrow at 10am British Summer Time!

All are welcome to join me for a service of worship at 10am tomorrow morning.  We'll hear something from Ram, and encouragements in the midst of this strange time, as well as continuing our journey in the Paraclesis course, with a "Healing" theme, considering the woman in the temple, from Luke 13:10-17.

We'll begin with our video and audio turned on, so we can say hello to people as they arrive, then turn off for the service, and back on again at the end to say goodbye.  There will be no waiting room this week, so you'll go straight in.

Please do join in, with the same link as last week:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/993672961

Meeting ID: 993 672 961

Once again, service wilkl be available online afterwards.

Within the activity of our days and the restlessness of our world, we can get our bearings by listening to God's gentle call: "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him". Psalm 37.7.

Come and do just that at Quiet Time with God at Hethel Church from 7.30 pm to 8.15 pm, every other Wednesday.

An opportunity for stillness, reflection on a Bible passage and silent prayer with others.

Dates for the rest of this term: 5 and 19 February; 4 and 18 March 2020.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Within the activity of our days and the restlessness of our world, we can get our bearings by listening to God's gentle call: "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him". Psalm 37.7.

Come and do just that at Quiet Time with God at Hethel Church from 7.30 pm to 8.15 pm, every other Wednesday.

An opportunity for stillness, reflection on a Bible passage and silent prayer with others.

Dates for the rest of this term: 5 and 19 February; 4 and 18 March 2020.

We look forward to welcoming you.

A Special service marking the beginning of Lent, in contemporary language, with traditional hymns. There will be opportunity to receive ash daubed on the forehead, and also to receive communion.

Within the activity of our days and the restlessness of our world, we can get our bearings by listening to God's gentle call: "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him". Psalm 37.7.

Come and do just that at Quiet Time with God at Hethel Church from 7.30 pm to 8.15 pm, every other Wednesday.

An opportunity for stillness, reflection on a Bible passage and silent prayer with others.

Dates for the rest of this term: 5 and 19 February; 4 and 18 March 2020.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Within the activity of our days and the restlessness of our world, we can get our bearings by listening to God's gentle call: "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him". Psalm 37.7.

Come and do just that at Quiet Time with God at Hethel Church from 7.30 pm to 8.15 pm, every other Wednesday.

An opportunity for stillness, reflection on a Bible passage and silent prayer with others.

Dates for the rest of this term: 5 and 19 February; 4 and 18 March 2020.

We look forward to welcoming you.

On Sunday 26 January (the 4^th Sunday of the month) we will be gathering again for our Family Service at Hethel Church at the new time of 2.30 pm.

This service is particularly suited to younger children.

We will be singing songs, playing instruments, finding all sorts of things in our treasure box and saying a prayer together as we find out more about light and Jesus, the Light of the world.

The service will be approximately 30 minutes in length with a snack offered afterwards for those who would like to stay. Please feel free to bring a snack of your children’s choice if you prefer.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Within the activity of our days and the restlessness of our world, we can get our bearings by listening to God's gentle call: "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him". Psalm 37.7.

Come and do just that at Quiet Time with God at Hethel Church from 7.30 pm to 8.15 pm, every other Wednesday.

An opportunity for stillness, reflection on a Bible passage and silent prayer with others.

Dates for the rest of this term: 5 and 19 February; 4 and 18 March 2020.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Some of us thrive on stillness and silence in solitude;   for others the companionable quiet of a meditation group may be more helpful.  This newly formed group is an opportunity to explore together, in quietness and simplicity, how we can experience and respond to God as a part of our spiritual journey.

We will be meeting fortnightly from Wednesday 6 November at 7.30 pm for 45 minutes at Hethel Church.

During this time we will have an opening prayer, followed by a short Bible reading.  There will then be a period of approximately 20 minutes Quiet Time with God, which may take the form of silent prayer, meditation or simply sitting in quiet reflection in God’s presence.

At the end of this time, there will be an opportunity to share any thoughts, feelings or insights and a short prayer, as well as refreshment. (However if you wish to leave before that’s perfectly fine).

Dates in the autumn term 2019:

Wednesdays:  6, 20 November; 4, 18 December

MUSIC for CHRISTMAS

played by the

NORWICH CITADEL SALVATION ARMY BAND

at

FLORDON CHURCH

FRIDAY 6^th DECEMBER at 7.30pm

Admission - suggested donation £5 – includes mulled wine and mince pies

Book with Janet Negal 01508 471070 email janet.negal@outlook.com

BOOKING ESSENTIAL - Early booking recommended

All profits to the Salvation Army

Some of us thrive on stillness and silence in solitude;   for others the companionable quiet of a meditation group may be more helpful.  This newly formed group is an opportunity to explore together, in quietness and simplicity, how we can experience and respond to God as a part of our spiritual journey.

We will be meeting fortnightly from Wednesday 6 November at 7.30 pm for 45 minutes at Hethel Church.

During this time we will have an opening prayer, followed by a short Bible reading.  There will then be a period of approximately 20 minutes Quiet Time with God, which may take the form of silent prayer, meditation or simply sitting in quiet reflection in God’s presence.

At the end of this time, there will be an opportunity to share any thoughts, feelings or insights and a short prayer, as well as refreshment. (However if you wish to leave before that’s perfectly fine).

Dates in the autumn term 2019:

Wednesdays:  6, 20 November; 4, 18 December

Come and join us for the annual tradition of the Christingle service! Everything needed will be provided, including oranges, candles, ribbon, sweets, lots of fun and laughter, and a wonderful beginning to the Christmas season. Loved by children and adults alike, this candlelit celebration is a fabulous way to help bring light and hope to children living in poverty in this country, through the work of the Children’s Society. Biscuits and drinks are served afterwards.

For more details on what Christingle is all about, check out the website: www.christingle.org

Some of us thrive on stillness and silence in solitude;   for others the companionable quiet of a meditation group may be more helpful.  This newly formed group is an opportunity to explore together, in quietness and simplicity, how we can experience and respond to God as a part of our spiritual journey.

We will be meeting fortnightly from Wednesday 6 November at 7.30 pm for 45 minutes at Hethel Church.

During this time we will have an opening prayer, followed by a short Bible reading.  There will then be a period of approximately 20 minutes Quiet Time with God, which may take the form of silent prayer, meditation or simply sitting in quiet reflection in God’s presence.

At the end of this time, there will be an opportunity to share any thoughts, feelings or insights and a short prayer, as well as refreshment. (However if you wish to leave before that’s perfectly fine).

Dates in the autumn term 2019:

Wednesdays:  6, 20 November; 4, 18 December

Nationwide quiz in aid of Tearfund, the aim to raise 50 million people out of poverty.
Teams of up to six, £5 pp on the door, doors open 7:15, 7:45 Start.
Table snacks included, Bar available.

Contact tim@mulbchurch.org.uk to book your place or join a team.

Some of us thrive on stillness and silence in solitude;   for others the companionable quiet of a meditation group may be more helpful.  This newly formed group is an opportunity to explore together, in quietness and simplicity, how we can experience and respond to God as a part of our spiritual journey.

We will be meeting fortnightly from Wednesday 6 November at 7.30 pm for 45 minutes at Hethel Church.

During this time we will have an opening prayer, followed by a short Bible reading.  There will then be a period of approximately 20 minutes Quiet Time with God, which may take the form of silent prayer, meditation or simply sitting in quiet reflection in God’s presence.

At the end of this time, there will be an opportunity to share any thoughts, feelings or insights and a short prayer, as well as refreshment. (However if you wish to leave before that’s perfectly fine).

Dates in the autumn term 2019:

Wednesdays:  6, 20 November; 4, 18 December

The Church of England invests billions of pounds and, guess what, these are concerns that are shared by pension fund managers.

In the CofE's case, there has been some public concern about energy companies that continue to extract fossil fuels with no investment in renewables. To divest or not to divest, that is the question. The current position is not to divest, and use shareholder pressure to bring about change.

This coming Saturday, 19th October, Edward Carter, vicar of St Peter Mancroft, is coming to converse with us about God and Money. I say 'converse' rather than 'speak' because I know that Edward wants to make it more of a dialogue than a lecture.

Edward is a Trustee of the Church of England’s CBF Funds (which has around £2bn of church money under investment!).  He also serves on the Ethical Investment Advisory Group of the Church of England. He will help us learn more about the church and its money, and help us with the whole concept of investing our own wealth for the benefit of others as well as ourselves.

Wine and nibbles in the interval before time for lots of Q's.

£5 contribution if you can manage it, shared between the Mancroft Advice Project and Hethel Church's sound reinforcement fund.

7 for 7.30pm start

Adults £8.50, Children (aged 12 and under) £5.

A glass of wine or juice is included in the price of the ticket.

This is a popular event and places are limited, so PLEASE BOOK AS SOON AS POSSIBLE with Pam (470439) or Janet (471070) Pam needs to know numbers in good time so that she can order the meat. 

Saturday Evening Event

Brother Roger, founder of the community in 1940, said “God is love alone” and this is the heart of Taizé. Rachel Burchell will lead us in an evening to learn a bit more about the community, its work and what it means to visit. We'll learn one or two songs, have a drink and a nibble before we worship together, experiencing this love in peace, space, silence and music.
This event is for all four of our churches, together with those on the fringes who have an interest in 'spirituality'. Do come.

What is Taize?

The Taizé Community in central France is an ecumenical Christian monastic fraternity of more than one hundred multi-national brothers from a variety of traditions.  Taizé has become one of the world's most important sites of Christian pilgrimage, with a focus on youth. Over 100,000 young people from around the world make pilgrimages each year for prayer, Bible study, sharing, and communal work. Through the community's ecumenical outlook, they are encouraged to live in the spirit of kindness, simplicity and reconciliation.

Everyone welcome to help trim, clip and tidy

Normally just Flordon’s ‘faithful few’ perform this task, so do come along to support and encourage them – many hands make light work!

Tools and the famous Flordon refreshments provided.

It's the Summer holidays! and Messy Church meets again on Thursday 22 August at Mulbarton Primary School from 10 am to 12 noon. Another craft-packed, messy, fun morning. There will be crafts, drama, story, song, and prayer - all of which will help us to explore our Bible story. Refreshments available throughout the morning, soft toy area for very young children and lunch at the end. Come and enjoy and meet lots of people too. Cost £1 per person (adult and child) gratefully received to cover our costs. For more information: cathynicholls@allbelievers.org or 570557.

About Messy Church: Messy Church is a relaxed and friendly facility for all it’s local residents. Offering a place to chat, create and meet kind and caring people.
Our service offers children songs and stories to help them begin build a foundation of trust, hope, and love. Our sessions are designed to have age appropriate, engaging activities that help children to grow spiritually through simple habits that will build a strong structure of faith within their lifes.

On Thursday 30 May, during half term, Messy Church meets again at Mulbarton Primary School from 10 am to 12 noon. We will be exploring another Bible story with all sorts of creative crafts and activities and gathering it all together when we tell the story, sing a song, say a prayer and then eat a simple buffet lunch together (all provided)! Refreshments available throughout the morning. Soft toy area for young children - a great place to meet people. Donations of £1 per person (adults and children) go towards our resources. Come and enjoy! Contact: Cyndy Bowles (578510) or Cathy Nicholls (570557) cathynicholls@allbelievers.org

'Walk, Eat and Pray'  at Hethel Church on Rogation Sunday. We have three activities which we'd love you to join us for:

'Walk' - Beating the Bounds (2:30pm): This is a two-hour wander around the boundaries of the Parish, stopping here and there to pray for the people and enterprises of Hethel. Everyone is welcome (Adults, children and dogs!)

'Eat' - Tea at Church (4:30pm): Following our walk, please feel free to join us for refreshments in Hethel Church

'Pray' - Evening Prayer (5:00pm):  Our time together conlcudes with a short and simple service of Evening Prayer, including well known hymns, led by our Curate, The Revd Andrew North.

'Walk, Eat and Pray'  at Hethel Church on Rogation Sunday. Feel free to join us for all or any component of this fun and traditional activity which dates back over 350 years. A warm welcome is guaranteed!

4th Sunday @ 4 is a short (about 40 minutes) family service which we do together. There is a simple structure to the service which comprises songs, a Bible reading, various activities, a short talk and prayers followed by refreshments. We aim for as much participation as possible (!) but anyone is welcome to come and simply enjoy. There is a soft toy area for very young children. A great place to meet other families.

This month Andrew will be leading us through the account of Jesus feeding the 5,000!

Come and create an Easter Garden at Hethel Church from 10 am to 11.30 am on Saturday 20 April. 

An informal time telling the Easter story as we each create a small Easter garden of our very own.  Mums, Dads, grandparents welcome to enjoy hot drinks and hot cross buns or to join in.  All resources provided. If you can let us know you are coming that would be great!  cathynicholls@allbelievers.org or 570557.

We meet at the bottom of Catmere Herne, on Cuckoofield Road, and will walk up with the cross, to Harvest House, pausing to sing and pray at various stops along the way. There will be the opportunity to pray together at Mulbarton Church at the end of the walk, where Andrew will be arriving with his cross. Hot cross buns will be served afterwards in Harvest House.

Leaders: Adrian

We recall the last supper that Jesus shared with his closest friends. After receiving bread and wine in memory of this, we'll continue with relaxed and informal contemporary worship, and listening to God. There will be an opportunity to pray for one another.

It's the Easter holidays! and Messy Church meets again on Thursday 18 April at Mulbarton Primary School from 10 am to 12 noon. Another craft-packed, messy, fun morning with the addition of drama too for the first time this month led Carl Bradley of CB Drama. Crafts, drama, story, song, prayers all exploring the Easter Story through our theme: "Why do bad things happen to people and how can I help?" Refreshments available throughout the morning, soft toy area for very young children and lunch at the end. Come and enjoy and meet lots of people too. Cost £1 per person (adult and child) gratefully received to cover our costs. For more information: cathynicholls@allbelievers.org or 570557.
We meet again during the May half term on Thursday 30 May.

The word "tenebrae" comes from the Latin meaning "darkness" or "shadows". The Tenebrae is an ancient Christian Holy Week service that makes use of gradually diminishing light through the extinguishing of candles to symbolize the events of that week from the triumphant Palm Sunday entry through Jesus' burial.

This increasing darkness symbolizes the approaching darkness of Jesus' death and of hopelessness in the world without God. The service concludes in darkness, with a final candle, representing Christ, carried out of the church, symbolizing the death of Jesus.

It is a simple service, with 6 candles, 8 readings, some music and some silence.  A loud noise may also sound symbolizing the closing of Jesus' tomb. The worshipers then leave in silence to ponder the events of Holy Week, the impact of Christ's death and the expectation of the coming Resurrection.    

A Special service marking the beginning of Lent, in contemporary language, with traditional hymns. There will be opportunity to receive ash daubed on the forehead, and also to receive communion.

Messy Church leaps back into action in 2019 with our first gathering in February half term on Thursday 21 February.
We will meet in Mulbarton Primary School from 10 am to 12 noon. We have a lot of fun and usually get quite messy
exploring a Bible story through crafts, activities, acting out the story, song and prayer. We draw everything together
with lunch, which is provided. Do come along and join in, meet other families and find out more about how we can
follow Jesus in our everyday lives. Cost: £1 for each adult and child to cover costs.

We meet again in the school Easter holidays on Thursday 18 April and in the May half term on Thursday 30 May.

Come and join us for the annual tradition of the Christingle service! Everything needed will be provided, including oranges, candles, ribbon, sweets, lots of fun and laughter, and a wonderful beginning to the Christmas season. Loved by children and adults alike, this candlelit celebration is a fabulous way to help bring light and hope to children living in poverty in this country, through the work of the Children’s Society. Biscuits and drinks are served afterwards.

For more details on what Christingle is all about, check out the website: www.christingle.org

Mulbarton Church will be open to visitors on the evening before All Saints Day (also known as All Hallows Day).  There will be an opportunity to light a candle to remember a lost loved one, and say a quiet prayer.  There will also be sweets and a blessing card to take away, freely available.  Children and adults alike are invited to drop in for a couple of minutes any time between 5:30 and 8:30, where your local vicar, Adrian, will be present to welcome visitors.

Come and join in with Messy Church during half term on Thursday 25 October at Mulbarton Primary School between 10 am and 12 noon.
Explore "What is really important in my life?" through crafts and Jesus' story of the Prodigal Son. Introductory activities, a variety of crafts, an action packed Bible story, song and prayer time and then lunch together.  Cost £1 per person (adult and child).  Contact:  cathynicholls@allbelievers.org.  We look forward to welcoming you.

There are now specific dates we can pray for and the process has become clear! The initial large membership of the Vacancy in See Committee will be reduced to six on October 16^th who go forward to work with the national nomination committee, The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Prime Minister’s Office and the Queen’s staff. The six are elected from those already on the Committee. Please pray for clear leading and discernment and that the right people for Norfolk are chosen.

The full committee meets in Norfolk on 28^th August, 2^nd October and 16^th October.

There is a PUBLIC MEETING Consultation to be held for all Norfolk people on 3^rd October 7.30 pm at the Cathedral.  Please do come to make your voice heard, and please do pray.

We are asked to think about the kind of person we want but also what we want candidates to know about Norfolk.

You can also make your views known directly online, by following this link to the diocesan "Vacancy in See" page.  People can commit their thoughts on line directly to the Secretary of the Committee. They can also contact any of the members which are listed on the same web page.

We are also asked to pray this prayer whenever we can, to cover the whole process in God’s blessing. It may take some time as there are a  number of Bishoprics in vacancy at present. Please pray for the staff who will have to cover the work in Bishop Graham’s absence after February 2019.

Bishop Alan writes this about the vacancy and the process, and offers us a prayer to use...

What is a Bishop (Feel free to edit as appropriate)

1.Every bishop is the chief pastor of all that are within his diocese, laity as well as clergy, and their father in God; it appertains to his office to teach and to uphold sound and wholesome doctrine, and to banish and drive away all erroneous and strange opinions; and, himself an example of righteous and godly living, it is his duty to set forward and maintain quietness, love, and peace among all men.

2. Every bishop has within his diocese jurisdiction as Ordinary except in places and over persons exempt by law and custom.

3. Every bishop is, within his diocese, the principal minister, and to him belongs the right, save in places and over persons exempt by law or custom, of celebrating the rites of ordination and confirmation; of conducting, ordering, controlling, and authorising all services in churches, chapels, churchyards and consecrated burial grounds; ... of being president of his diocesan synod.

Ministry in the wider Church and Nation

The role of bishops is not confined to their own dioceses. As the statement at ordination services makes clear, the ‘special responsibility to maintain and further the unity of the Church, to uphold its discipline, and to guard its faith’ is one which bishops share with their fellow bishops, and they are to promote the mission of the Church ‘throughout the world’. They are members of the College of Bishops at the provincial and national levels and attend the Lambeth Conference of all the bishops in the Anglican Communion.

All diocesan bishops are members of the House of Bishops of the General Synod and therefore share in responsibility for the leadership of the Church of England nationally and for relationships between the Church of England and the Church in other countries. Beyond their formal synodical role, diocesan bishops tend to be the public face of the Church in the eyes of the media and therefore perform an important communications role. Most diocesan bishops carry particular national responsibilities, chairing committees or boards within the National Church Institutions, ecumenically, or in connection with religious charities.

The Archbishops of Canterbury and York and the Bishop of London are privy counsellors. They are also members of the House of Lords, as are the Bishops of Durham and Winchester and twenty-one of the other diocesan bishops in England, Bishops may also be invited to contribute their experience or expertise to the deliberations of national government or regional bodies on particular issues. Diocesan bishops will thus also be called upon sooner or later to play a leading part in national life and to represent not just their dioceses but also their regions at the national level.

It is important that all who are involved in the process for choosing diocesan bishops bear in mind not just the role of diocesan bishops in their own dioceses, but also the ministry which they are called upon to exercise nationally and, in many cases, internationally as well

Eternal God, our shepherd and guide,

in your mercy give your Church in this Diocese

a shepherd after your own heart

who will walk in your ways,

and with loving care watch over your people.

Give us a leader of vision and a teacher of truth.

So may your Church grow and be built up,

and by your grace accomplish more than we can imagine,

for the glory of your name,

through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

DOG SHOW -  2.30 pm
Classes

• Waggliest tail
• Most like it’s owner
• Best ball catcher
• Best trick
• Most obedient

plus….

• PRODUCE SHOW AT 1.00 PM
• TRADITIONAL RACES AND GAMES AT 3.15 PM
• PLANT SALE
• CAKE, ICE CREAM & FILLED ROLLS
• BEER & PIMMS TENT
• OUR ANNUAL ‘TUG OF WAR’

You’ll be barking mad to miss it!