Newsletter - July 2025

Summer is well and truly upon us – I’m writing this during another mini heatwave. All the greenery around the church, church hall and parsonage is in full bloom. We’ve just started a sign-up sheet for those willing to help with the maintenance of the hedge and grass between the church and church hall and are grateful to those who have volunteered to help in this way. If you’re like to help, you can sign up in church.

I’m especially grateful to Phil Dilworth and Simon Curd, who have done a magnificent job taming the “Rambling Rector” rose bush by the Parsonage front door. The bush was a gift to one of my predecessors, the Revd John Scott. As you can see from the before and after photos, the bush was hanging very low making the pavement impassable. 

July sees the last session of First Steps until September and the start of the new school year. In June we had a record turnout of 18 little ones and 18 adults. We acted out the story of Jesus stilling the storm, using lengths of blue fabric for the waves and various saucepan lids from the hall kitchen to recreate the thunder. It was great to see the children so involved.

On Sunday 15th June, Abbeyfield held a friends and family afternoon with tea and cake for all who came. It was lovely to meet some of the residents’ family members and to enjoy the garden in such beautiful weather. Many of you will know Elizabeth Shroff, who turned 100 last September and has been living at Abbeyfield for a number of years. After a short spell in hospital her care needs have increased and so she has just moved to a care home. She will be much missed at Abbeyfield, but we are very pleased that she is still in Reigate, so we can continue to visit her.

Finally, do come and join the fun on our annual Gift Day – Sunday 6th July from 11am – 1pm. Join us for refreshments, stalls and games. We hope to see you there.