I do hope and pray that you are all keeping well and of good cheer during these difficult days. It is really important for us all to be in touch with each other and to stay connected as a Church. Martin and I are committed to being in regular touch with everyone and we have started to record services which will appear on our webpage.

On Mothering Sunday, 22 March, all churches have been called to observe a National Day of Prayer to remind us that our God cares for us, gives us hope and promises to hold the future.   At 7pm this Sunday we are all being asked to light a candle in the windows of our homes as a visible symbol of the light of life, Jesus Christ, our source and hope in prayer.

As we pray, let's remember one another - indeed, alongside your prayers you may like to telephone or email someone you know who is isolated, or a neighbour. Sandra will write to you shortly to explain the steps we have taken to ensure that everyone in our church community will be contacted from time to time, and to encourage all to pursue connection.

Pray also for our leaders who are having to make some extraordinarily difficult decisions at the moment; for those working in the health service and social care; and for all those who are feeling worried at his time - especially those who are vulnerable or have underlying health conditions.

Mothering Sunday is a time of thankfulness, when we remember mothers who have served us, often in very costly ways. And we remember, too, that for some it is a day of mixed emotions, pain and disappointment. It seems appropriate that we should be marking this day with prayer.

Please continue to attend to all the government health advice. Please do not hesitate to contact Martin, Sandra or myself if we can be of further help.

With kind regards and much prayer,

Jeremy

Revd Jeremy Groombridge CB

Sanderstead Parish
Onslow Gardens
Sanderstead CR2 9AB

T: 020 8668 7795

Emails: rector@sanderstead-parish.org.uk, jeremy@sanderstead-parish.org.uk, sandragroombridge@aol.com

Website: www.sanderstead-parish.org.uk