Six Parishes of The Saxonshore Benefice in North West Norfolk


	Updated for February 2010

New Rector
The Revd. Christopher Wood has been appointed as the new Rector for our parishes

Rev'd Christopher Wood
The Rectory,
Broad Lane,
Brancaster
PE31 8AU
Tel: 01485 211180

christopherd1760@hotmail.co.uk

The United Benefice of Hunstanton St Mary with Ringstead Parva St Andrew, Holme-Next-the-Sea St Mary the Virgin and Thornham All Saints, with Brancaster St Mary the Virgin, with Burnham Deepdale St Mary and Titchwell St Mary, with Choseley”, is the official name of this Benefice, which is rather a mouthful and so the name “The Saxon Shore Benefice” was chosen for these churches on the north west Norfolk coast

February Parish Letter from Christopher Wood

Dear Friends,

Staying at Home this Winter

Have you stayed indoors, at home, much more than normal this winter? And who could blame you. It really has been a memorable Winter season. Although gallant numbers made it through the snow to Christmas Services in the Saxon Shore Benefice I am also aware of those who have not ventured out much, waiting for the Spring to come.

Even the hardy walkers and ramblers who are with us the rest of the year seem to have been defeated by the weather this season. We look forward to welcoming them back, especially to our churches. The whole idea of Pilgrimage as a basis for searching out and exploring ancient sites seems to have become established in the last few years. Our churches are proud to offer that sense of pilgrimage to the passing visitor. But at this time of year we mustn't forget that our homes are a place of prayer too. I am reminded of an ancient poem that goes:

"Pilgrim remember
For all your pain
The Master you seek abroad
You will find at home
Or walk in vain"

In our scriptures, we find Jesus constantly entering the homes of his followers, Martha and Mary, Levi the tax collector, Simon's mother-in-law and many more. There is always a sense that this was a right and comfortable setting for him to teach and eat and just be present. If our homes are quiet or noisy, He is always to be found there. Susanna Wesley, the mother of Methodism, used to put her pinafore over he head while sitting in her crowded kitchen to indicate to the children that she was spending time with God. If we are at home alone, there is no better place to be in His presence and to ask for His help. So if February finds you indoors more than usual, remember what a special place your home is too. Another poem is I know ends thus:

"How entered He, by what secret stair
I know not, knowing only He was there"

Christopher Wood, Rector.