Dear Friends,

 

Isn't it good that the Battleaxes Pub is being given a face-lift! For so long it has presented a very dilapidated welcome to Wraxall village as people drive along the main road, and to venture inside was not the most uplifting experience, so the news that we shall have a new venue for lunch or an evening out in our parish is very welcome. This pub, of course, also has historic interest in its associations with Tyntesfield, being the original 'temperance pub' opened by Lady Gibbs for the estate workers of Tyntesfield; no doubt the resurrected establishment will be far removed from her original intention.

 

It is amazing how new life can come to a place. We have, of course, discovered how that can happen with the development of our Cross Tree Centre. The new building has been much admired since its dedication by the Bishop of Taunton six months ago; now we have to realise its potential and put it to good use for the sake of our local community. (Contact the parish office if you're interested in making a booking.)

 

All this about re-creation: taking something that was old and tired and breathing new life into it. And sometimes, it just takes some vision and imagination to do that. It's easy to get used to things as they are, and it takes someone who can look at a situation from a fresh perspective to see how things could be different. And what a difference that fresh perspective makes!

 

In our daily lives we get jaded and tired, and summer is the perfect time for standing back from the usual routine, taking a break, and, as we look back, taking stock, and considering  any new directions we may like to go in, even in small ways.  In the process of doing this, and catching up on rest, we are re-created to carry on again when leisurely days are over. You don't have to go away on an expensive holiday to experience this; just try to build in some 're-creation' time each day, when you can switch off from duties and relax. A little gentle exercise, or giving yourself a small treat of some kind, time to appreciate the natural world, potter in the garden,read a book, listen to a piece of music, do something you enjoy.

 

Inevitably, our bodies go on getting older and more tired, and re-creation isn't always possible this side of eternity. Even so, there may be a very precious time of 'standing back', reflecting on what life has brought, recalling memories, and trying to be more aware of the spiritual dimension of life and death, in order to prepare for what is to come. For them, re-creation will come beyond this world, in 'a new heaven and a new earth', where everything will be made new. I have been so impressed by the calm acceptance of this stage of their life's journey by a number of our parish family recently; their examples of calmness, serenity and trust, are an example to us all.

 

A favourite hymn, 'Love divine all loves excelling' speaks of the 'new creation' which is gradually being perfected, but will only be complete beyond this world. All our imperfect lives, as they change and grow are part of this process of creation. So, to, are the improvements we seek to bring about in our world, in our desire to create beauty and to leave something good behind us. In the way we develop the resources we have been given, whether in agriculture or art or industry or gardening or any other area of worthwhile development , we are co-workers with God the Creator in his unceasing work of creation.

A smart new pub is just an example of what can be done with a visionary picture of how things might be otherwise. If such a change can be brought about in a scruffy old building, how great can be the change in one human life? What potential for the world?

 

So enjoy the 're-creational' time you spend this summer, whether away on holiday, or just pottering at home. Let's hope we'll all be just a little rejuvenated when life resumes its normal pace in September.

 

With love,

 

Rosey

 

 

'RE-CREATION' OF THE CHURCHYARD AT WRAXALL

We have had two very successful 'working parties' to re-create the church-yard at Wraxall, cutting grass, pruning, clearing gutters, painting gates, treating woodwork and doing many little maintenance jobs. People of all ages have come and helped, and we are so grateful to all who have played their part.

These have been really good times: everyone working together happily – and enjoying a well-earned refreshment break with all sorts of goodies provided.

We hope that everyone has noticed the improvements! If you haven't yet been along to 'do your bit', no doubt there will be another opportunity – you'd be very welcome to join the 'Make-over Team'!