#482 Ice cold in Alex
Or ice cold in Wokingham would do

The fourth heatwave this year! Although possibly a relief for some after the strong winds last week.
I have spent the week trying to avoid too much sun, but also dodging the cats that seem to wander into the garden without so much as a by your leave. Today there was a pasty looking ginger cat, and before that was a cat with no tail that just seemed to want to sit on the chair under the gazebo. Albert came to my rescue by trying to stroke the cat with no tail, which shot off over the fence and seems to be keeping away since then.

Watch out for an interview with Fr Sam next week…
This Sunday

At St Paul’s we will be celebrating the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary at both the 8:00 and 9:30 service. The 9:30 Parish Mass will be led by Mthr Jane. Mthr Jane has been a huge help during the vacancy, always happy to take services in the Parish and support in any way she can. She will be taking a break now, so please come along on Sunday to thank her for everything she has given the Parish and bid her ‘au revioir’ (but hopefully not for too long). Also this Sunday Janet and David Charlton will be celebrating their Diamond Wedding Anniversary and will be providing cake and fizz after the service!
Judi will be leading the 11:00 service at St Nicks
At Woosehill Doreen Murgatroys will be leading the ‘Songs of Praise’ service at 10:00.
Music for a Summer Evening
Also this Sunday, don’t forget that we can enjoy the organ recital at St Paul’s starting at 6:15. With Chris Cipkin at the keyboard we will hear music from Bach, Reinberger, Guilmant and others. All inspired by travel and holidays away from home.

Fr Sam’s Institution and Induction, and Cara’s Licensing

The service for Fr Sam’s Institution and Induction as Rector of the Parish, and Cara’s Licensing as Associate Minister for Woosehill Church will be taking place at St Paul’s Church on Thursday 28th August at 7:30. Everyone is welcome to attend and to join us for light refreshment in the Parish Rooms after the service. The pews near the front of church will be reserved, so apologies if a mayor, or visiting clergy, or a member of Sam’s and Cara’s families have taken ‘your spot’.
Please note that we have a large number of guests attending so the car park will be very busy. There will be some additional parking available at the Masonic Hall (just down the road towards town on the left), otherwise you will have to use Holt Lane, Jubilee Avenue or the Station Car Park. Or for those who are able, it may be prudent to get a lift or walk to church.
P.S. If you don’t get a chance to talk to Fr Sam or Cara on the 28th, the service on Sunday 31st will be a joint affair for all three churches celebrating at 9:30 in St Paul’s with Fr Sam and Cara both presiding. So come along and continue the chat after that service.
Safeguarding Training
Last Saturday (9th August) a number of members of the church attended an on-site training session session in the Parish Rooms
We had a visit from Richard Woodley, who delivered the Basic Awareness and Foundation safeguarding training to our trusty St. Paul’s sides people and anyone who was looking for a refresher. Richard has tons of experiences, having worked as a police officer and then as safeguarding lead for the Diocese for many years. As most of you know, training needs to be refreshed every 3 years, and it was very interesting to have it explained by someone in the know, to be able to discuss things with others, and have some cookies and tea on the side.
For anyone alse who needs to take the Safeguarding course, In-person training is always an option – if ever you are interested in attending a session, please contact the safeguarding team.
Steffi
Meeting with God through trees

Reminders
This year’s Ride and Stride will take place on Saturday 13th September. See pews news for details.
Choir Singing Evensong at Portsmouth Cathedral Saturday, 11th October. Sign up for the coach at the back of church