We are going to have to give in to the Great British obsession and talk a little about the weather. The bi-monthly edition of Chipperfield News does two things. First, we are to be twice as interesting (Hmmm). Second, we are at a double disadvantage in being unable to predict the weather we have had or talk about it. To date we have been promised a glorious summer. But I’m not going anywhere near promises because I have a sneaky feeling where it will end. We have been told that this summer will not be like last year’s, a complete wash out. However, we are not told details. When and how glorious has not been told or promised. May ended and June began in wonderful and uplifting sunshine but what will we make of July and August?
One other Great British obsession used to be God. I don’t remember that time because I am not as old as I look, but it was true that Britain led the way in living for God. I am not talking about self righteousness, ritual, church-crusades and empire. What I am talking about is help for the helpless, philanthropy and hope. We led the way in the care for those less fortunate and reaching out a hand to the hurt, the broken and the lost.
Britain believed in the sanctity of all life and importance of the human condition, that all were created in the image of God and how amazing that was. There was a very real belief in the ability of us all to give of ourselves for the service of others. Not to live solely for our own individual needs and desires,not to grab and fight for our right to have what we want.
We were a people that saw that what we had was more than we would ever need and we would forever strive to reach out to those in our society that had far less than we ever needed. This desire was fuelled by the fact that God had done so much for us in Jesus Christ, and we just couldn’t help ourselves.
Funny! I hear us talking a lot about the former but not much about the latter. Maybe next time?
Love Jason, The Man in the Manse

Baptist Church News
The weather was not sure what to do on the day of our May Fair, so it was decided to stay inside again this year. However, it was a great afternoon, well supported by many folk, and lovely to see people relaxing with their cream teas! The money raised was £630 and will help church funds. Thank you all for supporting us on the day.
Our “Little Angels” group continues and if you would like to know more, please contact Claire Gain on 01923 270664.
We are looking forward to our Flower Festival on 29th – 31st August (see advert) so please note the dates in your diaries and come along to see us.
We would be pleased to welcome anyone to our monthly lunch, usually held on the second Saturday, so if you would like to join us please contact Brenda on 01923 269574.
Please note our next Family Quiz Evening is on 19th September at 6.30pm and we’ll be pleased to see you there. Details in next issue, also a report on our June Family Beetle Evening.
We wish you all happy summer holidays from the Baptist Church.