Preaching at a different church

We had a busy weekend, with all the immediate family descending on Saturday (it was lovely) to attend the Paston Day put on by our local church.

The Pastons were arguably the one of most important (and wealthiest) families in Norfolk in the middle ages, and a group of people – The Paston Society – keeps their history alive today by re-enacting the times in which they lived. In church, there were all sorts of medieval crafts to try. Our five year old granddaughter had a terrific day making jewellery, paper, felt, a sword, and learning calligraphy – after a fashion! That, plus the teddy bear rides in the churchyard, and great refreshments, made a much enjoyed day out for the whole family.

In the evening I was singing (I belong to the Brundall Singers, a local choir) in a concert at Caister church, a village church about nine miles away, on the coast. The highlight was not our choir, but twin Chinese girl pianists, aged 18. They started playing at the age of six and a half, and by the time they were ten, both had passed grade eight with distinction! After that they both attended the Purcell School for Music. They were superb.

On Sunday, I took the service and preached at Ranworth church. Ranworth is a village on the Norfolk Broads, with a very beautiful medieval church which boasts the best rood screen in the country. It also has a 500 year old illustrated book, made by monks from nearby St. Benet’s Abbey. It was lovely to be there and we were made very welcome.

After the service there it was two miles down the road to the next village of South Walsham, where I took part in the service and had the privilege of baptising a small boy. Again, a great experience and we were warmly welcomed.

Youngest daughter Becki had been staying for the weekend, but left in the afternoon for Whitby, where she’s giving a lecture on medieval glass and stained glass. She’ll be back on Thursday for next weekend, then it’s a return to Belgium for her.

Tomorrow I’m talking to our local W.I. about books – and hoping to sell a few!

Yes, a busy time. Retirement is suddenly less restful…