The Octagon Parish

All of us are currently navigating uncharted waters as we stay at home, either in self-isolation or social distancing and this is no different for the Church. In response to the government’s directions public worship has been suspended and our churches have been closed. As our churches are usually open every day, most of them round the clock, this has been an enormous step for us in the Octagon. In addition, for the immediate future we will not be permitted to conduct any weddings or baptisms and any funerals will be immediate family only and conducted either at the graveside or at the crematorium with memorial services to follow later once this period has passed.

 

I will be continuing with pastoral care via the telephone.

 

Technological advances have meant that it is possible to connect with each other and to share in worship together virtually via the internet. We are working hard to find the best ways of doing this so as to reach as many people as possible.

 

The Octagon Bulletin will continue to go out at least weekly. Please click here [http://theoctagonparish.org.uk/bulletin] if you wish to subscribe to the bulletin.

 

There is an Octagon Parish Facebook Group. Please click here [http://www.facebook.com/groups/153307875868082/to find it. If you live locally you should be able to join automatically.

 

For those who do not use Facebook there is now a YouTube channel, which can be accessed via computer, smartphone or smart TVs. Click here [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYTczrwwGfQ&t=8s] to find the first video.

 

This website will be updated regularly.

 

I have been able to make a couple of videos of a short act of worship on Sunday and an assembly for our children at Compton and Up Marden School on Wednesday. I plan to lead a short act of worship on Sundays at 5:30pm which can then be accessed at any time via Facebook and YouTube.

 

During this current crisis worship on Sundays is being broadcast nationally:

 

Sunday 08.10 BBC Radio 4;

Sunday 11.30 BBC 1 TV;

The Church of England will be streaming a live service each Sunday. Click here for more details. [https://www.churchofengland.org/more/media-centre/church-online]

 

In the absence of worship in our local churches I encourage you to tune into these services.

 

Most of us are usually fortunate enough to benefit from worshipping regularly with other Christians in beautiful churches. Sadly at the moment this is not possible and we are being challenged to find a new way of being the Church here in the Octagon and across the world. Although our church buildings and the presence of others are factors that can help us grow closer to God it is also possible for us to pray and worship wherever we are, knowing that others are doing the same. These are very difficult times and the world needs our prayers especially those who are sick and those who are caring for them.

 

It is also at times like these that those of us who can, are encouraged to help those around us by being in regular contact and running necessary errands. I know there are many wonderful things going on across the parish to support those who live alone and/or may be vulnerable. Our parish councillors and administrator as well as our two shops are doing a marvellous job. Please support them. Both Compton Village Shop (023 9263 1144)

and Stansted Farm Shop (023 9241 3576) are arranging deliveries to support those staying at home at this time.

 

In my online assembly for our children this week I spoke about keeping safe and read the story of the Stilling of the Storm (Matthew 8:23-27). The world is going through stormy times and it is important that we hold onto the calming presence of Christ in our midst by joining in prayer on a regular basis. For those with access to Apps the Archbishop of Canterbury has recommended the Soultime App https://www.soultime.com and there is also a Church of England Daily Prayer website (and App) which provides a liturgy and readings for morning prayer, Evening Prayer and Night time Prayer to use every day https://www.churchofengland.org/prayer-and-worship/join-us-service-daily-prayer There is a link to this above.

 

Please pray for Edward, Maria, Will and me as we try to minister to you at this time as we will pray for you.

 

With very best wishes

 

Lindsay