St Mary the Blessed Virgin Parish Magazine March 2026
40 pages · tap a page to read its text
St Mary's Parish Magazine
No. 1374
Southwark Pastoral Auxiliary Southwark Pastoral Auxiliary Southwark Pastoral Auxiliary Director of Music
Head of Servers
Treasurer
PCC Secretary Gift Aid Secretary Safeguarding Officer
To advertise in this magazine:
1/4 page £45, 1/2 page £75, full page £140 (for 10 issues: July/Aug & Dec/Jan combined) Please telephone advertising manager Sheila Player, 020 8657 4952
Institution of Rev'd Mo/ Thought of the month..
(List of our Advertisers can be found on page 26)
For Collects, Bible Readings and Services at St Mary's please see pages 10/13
St Mary's aims are Worshipping God and Loving our Neighbour.
It is interesting and informative. There is a potted history of St Mary's, details of many of the different groups within the church, the Hall Development Fund-raising, other activities and forthcoming events.
See website https://addington.org.uk/hall-hire
Parish Office email [email protected] and 01689 842167
This month we will become increasingly aware that spring is with us. As I write this in February there are signs of new life emerging with the snowdrops popping up in the garden. But they weren't the first signs of colour; some tiny little violets beat them to it this year, along with one of our roses that grow by the patio which has begun to bloom already, and I've seen a mass of bright crocuses beside the Shirley Library.
Now, even though it is Lent, we can see in creation the signs of the renewal of life and the reminder of the eternal hope we have in resurrection.
The beautiful crisp spring mornings remind me of Psalm 65, especially in the Message bible: vv 8b-9...
"Dawn and dusk take turns calling, "Come and worship."
Oh, visit the earth, ask her to join the dance!
Deck her out in spring showers, fill the God-River with living water.
Paint the wheat fields golden.
I particularly enjoy seeing the fresh sights of spring, but as a "Countryfile" programme a few years ago reminded me, we have other senses with which to enjoy spring too.
If we can get outdoors there is plenty of birdsong we can hear. You can feel the warmth of the sun on your face at last (assuming it's not raining!) There might even be some early blossom this month to scent the air. Spring is both a time of the hope and expectation we experience in nature. It is also a time for reflection on our faith as we think of Jesus' journey to the cross so how about being attentive to how we use our senses to experience Lent and Holy Week?
Walk this Lenten period with new eyes, taste and see, feel the weight of the cross. There will be 'Stations of the Cross' with images to aid reflection. We can hear the Bible readings of the season once again. And if we catch the scent of perfume in the air it can remind us of the devotion of Mary who bathed the feet of Jesus with Nard (John 12:3). May the Lord God be with you and inform you throughout your Lenten journey.
with love Barbara
A Line from Luna...
I love going for walks with Mummy &/or Daddy especially in the spring when all the scents are fresher and much clearer. I notice people smile more when the weather is warmer and when the sun shines. The sky is bluer, the grass is greener and the local wood pigeons trot on the lawn as if saying come and chase me!
May God's creation continue to bless us all.
Much love, Luna xx
Edward's Farewell - a date for your diary
Most will know by now that Debbie's last service here will be in the morning of 26th April. That will, I'm sure, be followed by a very festive lunch and send-off at which the focus must be entirely on Debbie. But I would quite like, separately from that, to bid my own personal fond farewell to the community in gratitude for the love and support you have shown to us both throughout our time here. Predictably, my mind turns to music.
So, on the afternoon of the previous Sunday 19th April, in church, between around 2.20 and 4.30, I would like to play for you Beethoven's last three piano sonatas, interspersed with some Bach. They were not Beethoven's last works - composed between 1820 and 1822, they were followed by the Missa Solemnis, the Choral Symphony and the late string quartets but they have a mature reflective quality which I think does produce an appropriate valedictory tone.
It turns that into a busy day, because that morning after church (19th April) is our APCM. PCC and Catering Committee will decide whether that meeting ends with a shared lunch – that is often the pattern, but lunch on two consecutive Sundays might be excessive - but either way I am suggesting that I start to play at 2.20 and take a fairly leisurely approach, with opportunities to chat, and making it is possible for people to drop in and out between items. Tea and coffee will be available before, during or after, possibly even a glass of wine at the end.
Edward
It's been a while but Spring seems to have arrived as the hours of daylight lengthen and spring flowers begin to bloom, putting the recent downpours out of our minds. So here's hoping this issue will put a spring into your every day life.
In no particular order ( I learnt that from watching Strictly Come Dancing) you will find on page 25 some facts about the Month of March, and on the op- posite page to this a quiz for Mother's Day, which falls this year in the 15th of March, which incidentally is the Ides of March, a day in Roman times for settling debts.
A date for your diary is given on page 5 by Edward as he performs some piano pieces, interspersed with chat and tea.
"Well here we are again” Peter our roaming reporter, red nosed as befits his article enjoyed a fun packed day celebrating the life of Grimaldi, at a service that was both chaotic as well as being serious, but totally enjoyable. I am not sure how Peter finds the time to produce the many articles that appear in the magazine, that range from the Children's Page, to a well crafted poem in praise of Spring, tre(e)mendous piece about the Oak to, well something I had never thought about until I read the article on page 14.
It was good that a group from St. Mary's was able to attend the Institution and Induction of Rev'd Mo as Vicar of St. Francis at the Engine Room, Tottenham Hale. Personally, through my time with Mo when she was with us, I cannot think of a better person to fan the flames in the Engine Room to encourage and grow her congregation.
Following on from the February magazine, the "Streets of the Parish" are further identified in part 2, covering the letters D to K.
A merry band of bellringers took themselves off to Kent to ring at three churches with differing bells at each. They obviously love their trips, this one being on Valentine's Day.
We handle Plastic in many ways and not always in the best of ways. During March for one week in particular, households are asked to count the number of pieces of plastic they throw away which could lead to a better understanding of the scale of the plastic problem, as shown on page 29. One way of disposing of unwanted plastic was highlighted in February's issue in respect of recycling used blister packs and from the article on page 38, the response been truly amazing. Also as an aside regarding recycling/litter a recent St. Mary Litter Pick Day col- lected and bagged 30 sacks of thoughtlessly discarded litter of which plastic packaging was quite prevalent.
If that has depressed you or made you unhappy perhaps some amusing church signs on page 27 will cheer you up. Eddy Torr
As Mother's Day falls of 15th March I thought what better than a quiz to celebrate that special day. Don't tell anyone else your answers Remember, mum's the word. Good luck. PB
1.What day of the week does Mother's Day always fall on?
2. What is Mother's Day also known as in Britain?
3. Who is Liza Minnelli's famous mother?
4. Mothering Sunday was originally about another kind of 'mother.' Was it? (a) Our mother country (b) Our mother earth (c) Our mother church 5. The word mother derives from which Latin word?
(a) mamma (b) mater (c) motar (d) mehter
6. What type of cake is traditionally made for Mothering Sunday?
(a) Victoria sponge (b) Madeira cake (c) Chocolate cake (d) Simnel cake
7. Who wrote a song called 'Your Mother Should Know??
(a) Paul McCartney (b) Elton John (c) Billy Joel (d) Gilbert O'Sullivan 8. Who was the mother of Mary Tudor, also known as Mary I, queen of England? (a) Anne Boleyn (b) Catherine Seymour (c) Catherine of Aragon
9. Which animal has the longest gestation period of 20 to 22 months? (a) giraffe (b) African elephant (c) blue whale (d) giant tortoise
10. Mothering Sunday falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent. What is the Latin name for this day?
Gaudete (b) Jubilate
(c) Laetare
II. Who is recognised as the 'Mother of Modern Physics??
12. What are the traditional flowers given on Mother's Day?
(a) red roses (b) red carnations (c) red tulips (d) red camellias
13. Which cartoon mother has blue hair?
(a) Marge Simpson (b) Wilma Flintstone (c) Betty Rubble (d) Jane Jetson 14. Which nursery rhyme character opened her cupboard to find it was bare? 15. What is the largest number of babies born live at one time?
(a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 8 (d) 9
16. Who is Aladdin's mother in the pantomime?
17. 'Mother's not quite herself today!' is a line from which horror film?
18. Who played Saffron's mother, Edina, in the TV series 'Absolutely Fabulous'? (a) Joanna Lumley (b) Dawn French (c) Jennifer Saunders (d) June Whitfield 19. Buzz Aldrin's mother's maiden name was Moon. TRUE or FALSE 20. Ma Larkin featured in which TV series starring David Jason?
Anwers on page 28 quiz compiled by Peter Bourne
If you would like your birthday included in the magazine please let me know. Phil Davison, Editor
+ We commend to God's loving care +
+ May they rest in Peace and rise in Glory +
In the absence of the weekly “Pews news”, a prayer list has been created and you are kindly asked to hold the following in your Thoughts and Prayers.
May God grant healing, wholeness and comfort to all who suffer, and give strength and compassion to all who care for them.
We commend to the loving mercy of God, and pray for those who mourn them.
Joyce Anderson
Silence and stillness, times for reflection and meditation, and a moment within each day to offer our prayers and concerns to God for ourselves, our community and our world are vital if we are to sustain our busy and active lives. Try to find space at the same time each day to be with God by yourself, just for five or ten minutes. You might like to follow this simple
PRAYERS
• Anything that has struck you from the reading
BIBLE READINGS
• Look up one or both Bible readings. • Silence and quietness
• For your own family and friends and It is good sometimes to know that your own concerns
For our neighbourhood and world • From the lists within these pages
Prayer of week
March Sunday Prayers when you pray, especially if you are on your own, others in the parish are praying with you. If you pray at 8.30am, 5pm or 8pm then others will almost certainly be praying too.
Sunday 1 March - The Second Sunday of Lent
Almighty God, who seest that we have no power of ourselves to help ourselves; Keep us both outwardly in our bodies, and inwardly in our souls; that we may be defended from all adversities which may happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts which may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Sunday 8 March - The Third Sunday of Lent
We beseech thee, Almighty God, look upon the hearty desires of thy humble servants and stretch forth the right hand of thy Majesty to be our defence against all our enemies; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Grant, we beseech thee, Almighty God, that we, who for our evil deeds do worthily deserve to be punished, by the comfort of thy grace may mercifully be relieved; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Sunday 22 March -The Fifth Sunday of Lent
We beseech thee, Almighty God, mercifully to look upon thy people; that by thy great goodness they may be governed and preserved evermore, both in body and soul; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Almighty and everlasting God, who, of thy tender love towards mankind, hast sent thy Son our Saviour Jesus Christ, to take upon him our flesh, and to suffer death upon the cross, that all mankind should follow the example of his great humility; Mercifully grant, that we may both follow the example of his patience, and also be made partakers of his resurrection; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord.
Readings are now taken from the Common Worship Lectionary and are the same readings used by the clergy in their Daily Prayer. Please look at the Weekly Notices for any updates.
Sun 1 The Second Sunday before Lent
Psalm 121 John 3.1-17
Genesis 12.1-4a Romans 4.1-5, 13-17
Psalms 26, 32 (or) 80, 82 Genesis 43.16-end Psalm 50 (or) 87, 89.1-18 Genesis 44.1-17 Psalm 35 (or) 119.105-128 Genesis 44.18-end Hebrews 2.10-end
Psalms 40, 41 (or) 88, (95) Genesis 45.16-end
Hebrews 3.7-end
Psalms 3, 25 or 96-97, 100 Genesis 46.1-7, 28-end Hebrews 4.1-13
The Third Sunday of Lent
Psalm 95
Psalms 5, 7 (or) 98, 99, 101 Genesis 47.1-27 Hebrews 4.14 - 5.10 Psalms 6, 9 or 106 or 103 Genesis 47.28 – 48 Hebrews 5.11 – 6.12 Psalm 38 (or) 110-112 Genesis 49.1-32 Hebrews 6.13-end Psalms 56,57 or 113, 115 Genesis 49.33 – 50 Hebrews 7.1-10
Thu 12 Fri 13 Sat 14 Sun 15
Exodus 2.1-10 or Psalm 22 (or) 139 Exodus 1.1-14 Hebrews 7.11-end Psalm 31 or 120-122 Exodus 1.22 - 2.10 Hebrews 8
Psalm 34.11-20 or Psalm 127.1-4
| Samuel 1.20-end
2 Corinthians 1.3-7 or Colossians 3.12-17 Luke 2.33-35 or John 19.25-27
Mon 16
Psalms 70, 77 or 123-126 Exodus 2.11-22 Hebrews 9.1-14 Psalms 54, 79 or 132-133 Exodus 2.23 - 3.20 Hebrews 9.15-end Psalms 63, 90 (or) 119.153-end Exodus 4.1-23 Hebrews 10.1-18 Joseph of Nazareth
Psalm 102 or 142, 144 Exodus 6.2-13
Psalms 73, 121 (or) 1, 2, 3
Exodus 8.1-19
Hebrews II.17-31
Psalms 35, 123 (or) 5, 6, (8)
Exodus 8.20-end
Hebrews 1.32 - 12.2
Wed 25 The Annunciation of Our Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary
Psalms 40, 125 or 14-16 Exodus 9.13-end Hebrews 12.14-end Psalms 22, 126 or 17, 19 Exodus 10 Hebrews 13.1-16
Psalms 23, 127 or 20, 21, 23 Exodus || Hebrews 13.17-end
Mon 30 Monday of Holy Week or Philippians 2.5-||
Matthew 27.11-54
Isaiah 42.1-9 Psalm 36.5-11 Hebrews 9.11-15 John 12.1-11
Have you ever thought how much teenagers can be like cats? Staying with my nephews over the Christmas holiday got me thinking: Neither teenagers nor cats turn their heads when you call them. No matter what you do for them, it's never enough. Both expect you to wait on them hand and foot.
You rarely see a cat walking outside with an adult. Likewise, teenagers wouldn't want to be seen in public with their parents. Cats and teenagers can lie on the settee for hours on end without moving... and barely breathing.
They both eat some very odd things at very odd hours!
Cats and teenagers yawn in exactly the same manner, communicating that ultimate ecstasy...a sense of complete and utter boredom.
Neither cats nor teenagers will improve the state of your furniture. Cats have nine lives; teenagers act as if they did.
Remember, above all else, put out their food and don't make any sudden moves in their direction. Both cats and teenagers will decide to come and eat it when they feel like it.
When they make up their minds cats and teenagers will come to you for some comfort and affection. This will be a triumphant moment for all concerned.
Peter Bourne
020 80 50 60 03 www.gouldsltd.co.uk | [email protected]
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The Institution and Induction of the Reverend Mo Amos Budd by Dr Christopher J. Parker as Vicar of Saint Francis at The Engine Room, Tottenham Hale, Wednesday, 4th February 2026
Debbie and I were delighted to be among those able to attend the Institution and Induction of Rev'd Mo as they began their incumbency at Saint Francis at The Engine Room. As the newest church in the Diocese of London—completed in October 2017―St Francis was the first new Anglican church in London for over 40 years. And in Saint Francis, I genuinely believe God has found the ideal priest to minister in his name: the match between priest and parish feels so perfect it's as though Mo were preordained to be there.
Set in the heart of the award-winning Hale Village, the church is a lively and welcoming place of worship, just three minutes from Tottenham Hale rail, tube and bus stations. It combines a modern church, a community centre, a café and a nursery all under one roof—a proper hub of local life.
Our journey began with a coach from St Mary's, carrying clergy, reader, members of the congregation, and a contingent from our Warm Space— one of Mo's most significant contributions to St Mary's during their curacy. The journey wasn't without incident: somewhere between West Wickham and Hayes we hit a police road closure, causing a sizeable traffic jam. I'll admit I began to doubt we'd make it on time. But once we were free of the hold-up, we whizzed through South East London, past my mum's nursing home in Grove Park, under the Thames via the relatively new Silvertown Tunnel, and on towards Tottenham Hale.
On arrival, we were greeted by the most modern of churches, dominated by a striking contemporary altarpiece (reredos) entitled The Eternal Engine
by sculptor Graeme Mortimer Evelyn.
There's no definitive published interpretation, but the hand-carved, painted relief—about 5 metres by 3 metres-speaks powerfully. To me, it feels on one level like a cosmic machine: breath, timber, fire, community, sacramental rhythm. On another level, it's multiple eyes-an entire theology of perception, belonging, divine gaze and communal seeing.
On the south wall is an equally remarkable Stations of the Cross- garish in places, disturbing in others, but undeniably arresting. Inside, the church was a hive of activity: bishop, clergy and laity darting about in a last-minute flurry. But by the time the service began, all was calm. The Right Reverend Dr Anderson Jeremiah, Bishop of Edmonton, presided. The procession entered to He Has Made Me Glad, and after the bishop's welcome we settled into a familiar Church of England Eucharist. The Gloria was sung to the Clapping Gloria, which certainly woke everyone up.
The first reading was Ephesians 4:1-13-curiously, the very reading I had made at my Confirmation many years ago in Liverpool. It speaks of the Church growing into unity and maturity in Christ, each member receiving grace and gifts so the whole Body may be built up in love. The Gospel was John 15:9-17, about abiding in Christ's love, keeping his command to love one another, and discovering that true friendship with God is revealed in self-giving love that bears lasting fruit.
Rev'd Mo was then presented by the Area Dean and Churchwardens to the Bishop, who introduced the Declaration and oaths. Mo recited the Declaration of Assent, the Oath of Allegiance to King Charles III, and the Oath of Canonical Obedience. The bishop then instituted Mo as Vicar- formal recognition that this priest is now the shepherd of this flock. The cure of souls is shared between bishop and priest but exercised locally by the priest. This is the moment the priest becomes, in law, the incumbent― but not yet in possession of the temporalities.
The Archdeacon then inducted Mo into the parish, leading them to the church door at quite a brisk pace, symbolising that the priest is physically placed in the benefice. Induction is the incarnational counterpart to institution: institution gives the spiritual cure; induction gives the earthly stewardship. It is the moment the priest is literally and legally "put inpossession" of the parish. The Archdeacon then placed Mo in their stall.
As tradition dictates, the new incumbent then led their new parish in the intercessions.
After the Peace, we sang This Is Amazing Grace, and the bishop led us into the Eucharistic Prayer. Communion was shared while a beautiful rendition of the Taizé Bless the Lord, My Soul was sung by a soloist, gently and harmoniously supported by the congregation.
A formal welcome from the Churchwardens followed, accompanied by a well-earned round of applause. Other dignitaries from the parish, deanery and wider community also greeted Mo. After the final blessing, a rousing Shine, Jesus, Shine brought the service to a joyful close.
Nibbles and conversation followed, and then we boarded the coach home this time via the Blackwall Tunnel. Once again we had to navigate the still-blocked road between West Wickham and Hayes, but the final stretch down the "mad mile", usually a crawl, was taken at the full speed limit. We dismounted the coach, weary but content, walking home with the sure knowledge that God's ministry in Tottenham Hale is in very safe hands indeed.
Thought for the Month
Kindness is free, yet is the most valuable gift you can give to someone.
In Latin I am Quercus. I am the mighty oak, the king of the woodland, a pillar of hard timber and deep reaching roots. My bark is a thick rugged skin of greyish brown, deeply furrowed with age for I can live for 300 or more years. My wood is hard and durable. My seed is the small acorn which sits in its own cup. Humans have a saying: 'From tiny acorns mighty oaks grow.' How true.
I am home to hundreds of animal species from tiny beetles and caterpillars to squirrels and birds, like the jay who bury my acorns for their winter foodstore. Humans have long revered me. They call me a symbol of strength and endurance. They tell tales of their ancestors. The ancient Druids held sacred gatherings under my spreading green canopy in which they conducted strange rituals. They sought wisdom from the white mistletoe berries that grow high up in my branches.
Many of my relatives form an oak woodland known as Sherwood Forest where, it is said, Robin Hood and his merrie men hid from their enemies in their green-leaved branches. The oak trees of Sherwood Forest are over 500 years old and the Major Oak is twice that age. They are so old that their memories cannot be relied on to be historically accurate, so this story may be true, maybe not or it could be partly true. I'll leave it to you, dear reader, to make your own mind up.
We oaks also have royal connections. Another relative of mine, whose memory can be relied upon, saved King Charles II who also hid from his enemies in its green boughs. This historical event is remembered each year by people who wear a sprig of oak leaves in their lapels. If you don't know the shape of my leaves then take a look at the National Trust logo for it is formed of oak leaves.
Looking down from my great height, for I can grow to 130 feet, I see humans rushing around like tiny ants while I remain steadfast. I am part of their history. In Medieval England they crushed galls from oaks, made by tiny wasps, to make ink to record their history. They cut my ancestors down to make planks and beams to build their homes. The ships in the English navy were originally built from English oak trees and, to this day, the official March of the Royal Navy is called 'Heart of Oak'.
It is believed that my acorns are carried by people as good luck charms to protect them from illness and from being struck by lightning. In Celtic mythology we are supposed to be the favourite dwelling place for fairies.
Peter Bourne
The service honours the legacy of Joseph Grimaldi, the father of modern clowning. Since 1946 clowns from all over the world have attended this service to celebrate Grimaldi's life and the artistry of clowning. Born in 1788 Grimaldi popularised the role of the white-faced clown in British pantomime as well as their energetic slapstick routines. He came up with many catch-phrases on stage, such as 'Here we are again!' and the mischievous ‘Shall I?' prompting the audience to reply with an enthusiastic 'YES!' (In that respect he was the Bruce Forsyth of his day.) He also made a pun of his surname telling the audience, 'I'm grim all day, but I make you laugh at night.' (Get it? Grim-al-di was 'grim all day' because of the joint pains he suffered from performing acrobatics on stage.) Today, many clowns are called 'Joey' in his honour.'
The congregation was made up of all ages, with many children and adults still wishing to show their inner-child. Some people put on full 'slap' (the term Joseph Grimaldi clowns use for their painted faces). I wore my red jumper and a red nose which I kept from a past Red Nose Day. (Lucky I still had it.)
As the organist began to play, we all stood to sing 'Lord of the Dance,' the church wardens, followed by the clergy and the most colourful procession of clowns came down the aisle from the back of the church... some waddling, some skipping and a couple even doing a waltz. The first clown carried a very large banner of Grimaldi, some had glove puppets, some carrying huge bright yellow sunflowers, one with a spinning pineapple on his top hat, one blowing bubbles everywhere. Others playing plastic instruments, some squirting water over the congregation from trick cameras, one with a rainbow striped umbrella hat and bringing up the rear one riding a very small child's bicycle. It took them some time to settle down in the front pews, as a very patient Rev. Laura attempted to gain some sense of decorum...which wasn't easy when you've got 60 clowns with some honking hooters and blowing toy trumpets... before welcoming us all to the service. 'Friends, we're gathered here to celebrate the gift of laughter given to us by God,' she began. As we remember clowns the world over and those with us today who have come in the Christian spirit. The service today is dedicated to the life of Joseph Grimaldi'
After the prayer for thankfulness and forgiveness a clown read Grimaldi's last speech said on stage at Drury Lane Theatre in 1828. After his very successful career on stage as a clown, making people laugh with his comedic phrases and energetic tumbles he was forced to retire at thirty through crippling arthritis. After his retirement he fell on hard times. In his speech he said (quote) ....'"Like vaulting ambition I have overleaped myself and pay the penalty in advanced old age. It is four years since I jumped my last jump, filched my last oyster, last oyster, boiled my last sausage and set in for retirement'
This was followed by everyone singing 'Be Still for the Presence of the Lord' which helped to focus the mind on the reflective part of the service, in which Rev. Laura read out the names of clowns who had passed away during 2025... names such as Mr. Pan (USA), Jack Buckle (UK), Dubbo (USA) and Jam Buttie (UK). A candle of remembrance was lit for each clown. I suppose you could say that they have all gone to join that great clown circus in the sky.
We joined together in saying the 'Clowns' Prayer'...words that we could all take heed of: 'Lord, as I stumble through this life, help me to create more laughter than tears, dispense more cheer than gloom, spread more cheer than despair. Never let me become so indifferent, that I will fail to see the wonders in the eyes of a child or the twinkle in the eyes of the aged.'
To celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Clown's Service everyone sang' Happy Birthday.' Our final hymn 'Keep Me Travelling Along with You' had clowns back to their mischievous antics tooting their hooters at appropriate pauses in the hymn. A collection was taken and then the clergy left the church for the clowns take over proceedings in setting up for their show. We had a 30 minute break for a welcome cup of tea and a slice of the cake made in honour of Grimaldi.
The clowns' show began and chaos ensued. It was great fun... Oh, yes it was! Oh no it wasn't! Children invited up to help in the acts were delighted to receive a sausage dog balloon made for each them.
'God will yet fill your mouth with laughter, and your lips with shouts of joy.' (Job 8) It's great fun, it's colourful, it's noisy AND IT'S FREE !!! Get there early on the first Sunday in February next year as it's very popular. Put a note in your forward planner. from your Red Nosed Roving Reporter, Peter Bourne
Valentines Day! That's risky then, but eighteen ringers and friends set off on a lovely sunny but cold day for a trip to north Kent. Our winter outings tend to be short and low key with only three towers scheduled and a long pub lunch.
Our first tower was a delightful six at Chalk near Gravesend, where the ringing was good and varied. Three new bells were installed in 1998 and the 5th dated back to 1348. This was followed by the short trip to Shorne, a 9cwt six with a long draft and plain bearings. Much more challenging and a sense of achievement when correctly struck.
So, onto the Rose and Crown in Shorne where both the food and service were exceptional - especially the £I "Quiddich" pudding. Pub lunch was probably the highlight of the day for many.
Finally onto Cobham, where some of us had navigation problems. This was the heaviest six of the day at 13cwt and a pleasure to ring. They are quite old but rehung in 1994. A feature of Cobham is the attached almshouses which were originally a monastery but still in use and open to the public.
All three towers were ancient and in the flint and ragstone style - and all had projecting stair turrets, which seems to be a feature of this area. David Whitehead
A Mother was preparing pancakes for her sons, Kevin 5, and Ryan 3. The boys began to argue over who would get the first pancake.
The mother saw the opportunity for a moral lesson. She told them, If Jesus were sitting here, He would say, 'Let my brother have the first pancake I can wait'
Kevin turned to his younger brother and said "Ryan, you be Jesus."
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UNION families
Christian care for Thursday 5th March 2pm - celebrating our mums
Wednesday 25th March 8pm – AGM, followed by Rev Debbie and Edward share their memories of their time at St Mary's
Thursday 2nd April 2pm - Maunday Thursday readings & prayers
We are now in the season of Lent, hopefiully getting closer to God through prayer and reflection. We will be celebrating Mothering Sunday on the 15th of March and sending daffodils to the Women's Refuge in Croydon. Pleas hold all people who have suffered abuse in your prayers.
We have a full programme of events and you are invited to attend any of them.
Unless stated otherwise all meetings are held at 2 The Paddocks.
You are all welcome at our meetings.
You may have heard the weather proverb, “If March comes in like a lion, it will go out like a lamb," meaning that if the month starts off stormy, it will end with mild weather. There is, however, a different interpretation: The constellation Leo, the lion, rises in the east at the beginning of March. Thus, the month "comes in like a lion," while Aries, the ram, sets in the west at the end of the month, and hence, the month “will go out like a lamb."
A wet spring, a dry harvest.
On St. Patrick's Day, the warm side of a stone turns up, and the broad-back goose begins to lay.
March comes in with adders' heads and goes out with peacocks' tails.
Thunder in spring, Cold will bring.
So many mists in March you see, So many frosts in May will be.
In beginning or in end, March its gifts will send.
Bleak winds assault us all around; Dances aloft, or skims the ground: See the school-boy-his hat in hand, While on the path he scarce can stand
March's birth flower is the daffodil or jonquil. The daffodil signifies regard or unrequited love. The jonquil means "I desire a return of affection."
March's birthstone is the aquamarine. This gem is a type of beryl; its colour can be pale to dark blue, greenish-blue, or blue-green; deep, intense blue versions are more valuable.
March's Zodiac signs are Pisces (February 20 to March 20) and Aries (March 21 to April 20).
March became the third month when January and Februarywhich were added to the end of the Roman calendar around 700 BCE—instead became the first and second months around 450 BCE.
I Martius am! Once first, and now third! To lead the Year was my appointed place; A mortal dispossessed me by a word, And set there Janus with the double face.
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, American poet (1807–82)
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Are you free on Tuesday afternoons? Why not come along to our house group meetings? We begin by reading and talking about a passage from the Bible and finish with a bring and share lunch.
Why not FEED YOUR SOUL and FEED YOUR STOMACH ? If you'd like to join us we meet at 12 o'clock on the 2nd and 4th week of each month at Mary Innes' house, 89 Falconwood Road.
If you're interested have a word with Mary Innes, Neil Clark or Peter Bourne.
We would love to see you.
Here are some signs seen outside churches to give passers-by food for thought and maybe a little chuckle, too.
Does God Smile?
During Jesus's three year ministry on earth, he preached the gospel of God's love for all the people of the world - a perfect love of mercy, grace and forgiveness. He was even willing to shoulder our sins knowing his action would lead to the cross, the criminals death of crucifixion. With his loving nature, I am sure he greeted the people he met with a friendly smile, which may have in- spired Spike Milligan to share these thoughts;-
'Smiling is infectious, you catch it like the flu, When someone smiled at me today, I started smiling too. I walked around the corner, and someone saw me grin. When he smiled I realised I had passed it on to him! I thought about the smile, then realised it's worth, A single smile like mine could travel round the earth. So if you feel a smile begin, don't leave it undetected, Start an epidemic and get the world infected!'
It's easy to smile in familiar company, but so much more difficult among strangers, or when smiling is the last thing we want to do. How God must smile when he sees smiles passed around!
Some older members of St. Mary's might remember these words of a song popular in the 1940
As you go by.
1.Sunday 2. Mothering Sunday 5. (b) mater 6. (d) Simnel cake gon 9. (b) African elephant
Even though the darkest clouds are in the sky, You mustn't sigh, you mustn't cry
3. Judy Garland 4. (c) Our mother church. 7. (a) Paul McCartney 8. (c) Catherine of Ara- 10. (c) Laetare II. Marie Curie red carnations 13. (a) Marge Simpson 14. Old Mother Hubbard 15. (d) 9 16. Widow Twanky 17. Psycho 18. (c) Jennifer Saunders 19. TRUE. (Her full name was Marion Gladys Moon.)
20. The Darling Buds of May
You may find it useful to know the deadlines for the next edition, in order to plan ahead: Copy date for April magazine 23rd March 2026
Please e-mail your contributions to Phil at [email protected]
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For one week in March, thousands of people will be counting every piece of plastic packaging they throw away. Together we can uncover the true scale of the UK's big plastic problem and call on the Government to take action.
It's not just about counting plastic - it's about building a movement for a fair future that's free from the impacts of the plastic crisis.
Sign up and count your plastics for one week from 9th - 15th March. AND keep a look out for notices about our ‘Refill Sunday' at St. Mary's when we will be asking you to bring your 'empties' to get refills of washing up liquid, etc.
You will be saving money and plastics!
St. Mary's Eco Team
The snowdrop's bud - a crystal tear, Proclaims the start of each new year. Reminding us, lest we forget, Cold winter weather's not over yet...
Though Springtime days grow ever near.
Next, crocus carpets mauve and white, Each flower head absorbing light. Radiant jewels everyone, Open in the warm day's sun.
What a truly gladsome sight!
Star-like beauty, yellow blazing... In awestruck wonder leaves us gazing. Their trumpets sound in jubilation At God's miraculous creation;
Each daffodil all beauty praising.
Like stained-glass windows in churches old, Translucent shades of red and gold, Tulip petals open out:
'Look at us!' they seem to shout, In fire-flame colours bright and bold.
Shrinking violets in the shade, Royal purple in the glade.
Don't be shy, find a voice-
Join the flowers as they rejoice, For you, too, from God were made.
Continued on next page
Butter yellow petals... moons aglow, Primrose flowers in profusion grow. On grassy green emerald banks Shining bright to show their thanks, By putting on a resplendent show.
Woodland seas of bluebells ring, High in the trees birds sweetly sing. With thankful hearts let us all rejoice, Praising God with every voice...
For He has made this glorious Spring.
Specialist Solicitor with over 35 years experience
The Roads of the Parish of St Mary the Blessed Virgin, Addington by Dr Christopher J. Parker, Part 2 (D-K)
Danebury is a street name that recalls ancient, fortified places, blending Viking and Iron Age associations with suburban identity. "Dane" refers to the Danes, the Viking peoples who raided and settled parts of England in the early medieval period. “Bury”, from Old English burh ("fortified place" or "stronghold"), is common in English place-names (e.g. Salisbury, Banbury). While evocative, the name may be more of a suburban borrowing from famous Iron Age hillforts (e.g. Danebury in Hampshire) than a direct Viking reference. Therefore, Danebury symbolises resilience, continuity, and the deep roots of settlement embedded in the landscape.
Elmside is a street name that means "beside the elms." In naming, it suggests a street lying beside a natural feature (e.g. hillside, riverside, woodside). Elmside preserves the arboreal and pastoral heritage of the locality within the modern suburban estate, symbolising rootedness, resilience, and continuity with the natural landscape.
Fairacres is a street name that means "beautiful fields.” “Fair” suggests beauty, pleasantness, or nobility. In naming, it often conveys an idealised pastoral quality a "fair" place to dwell. "Acres", from Old English æcer, meaning a field or measure of land. Fairacres symbolises farmland, open space, and cultivation. It preserves the agrarian and pastoral heritage of the locality within the modern suburban estate, symbolising abundance, dignity, and continuity with the rural landscape.
Falconwood Road is a street name that blends the imagery of falcons and woodland. "Falcon", of course, refers to the bird of prey, long associated with nobility, hunting, and keen vision. In medieval England, falconry was a sport of the aristocracy, and falcons symbolised majesty, vigilance, and freedom. Falconwood Road preserves the rural and cultural heritage of the locality within the modern suburban estate, symbolising nobility, vision, and continuity with the natural landscape.
Featherbed Lane is a road name rooted in folk description, probably denoting a smooth or ironically rough track. "Featherbed" often refers to a soft or easy track, a road with a smooth surface compared to rougher paths. It may also have been a colloquial nickname given by locals, sug- gesting comfort or ease "like lying on a featherbed." In some cases,
"Featherbed" was used ironically, for muddy or difficult roads, where the name was a joke against the reality. Either way, it preserves the rural and perhaps humorous heritage of the locality within the modern suburban landscape.
Fernwood is a street name that means "woodland of ferns.” “Fern❞ refers to the fern plant, abundant in shaded, damp woodlands across Surrey. In folklore, ferns symbolise secrecy, resilience, and hidden beauty thriving in quiet places. Fernwood preserves the botanical and pastoral heritage of the locality within the modern suburban estate, symbolising resilience, hidden beauty, and continuity with the natural landscape.
Fieldway is a street and estate name that means "path through the fields." "Field" from Old English feld, meaning open land, pasture, or tilled ground, suggests expanses of farmland, commons, and meadows that once characterised Addington. Fieldway preserves the agrarian and pastoral heritage of Addington in New Addington within the modern suburban landscape, symbolising continuity, journey, and communal rootedness.
The Forestdale Centre is the communal heart of the Forestdale estate in Croydon, its name blending woodland imagery ("forest + dale") with suburban planning ("centre"). It symbolises both rootedness in nature and the fellowship of modern community life. "Forestdale", a compound of forest (woodland, hunting ground) and dale (valley or hollow), suggests a wooded valley, evoking Surrey's natural landscape of downs, hollows, and groves. The Forestdale Estate, developed in the 1960s-70s as part of Croydon's suburban expansion, Forestdale was designed with woodland imagery to soften modern housing. The estate lies between Addington and Selsdon, areas historically rich in woods and commons. The Forestdale Centre became the local hub, housing shops, services, and gathering spaces. In suburban naming, it conveys dignity and rootedness. in nature.
Foxcombe is a street name that means "valley of the foxes." "Fox”, ob- viously, refers to the creature long associated with cunning, adaptability, and survival. In English folklore, the fox is both trickster and survivor, a symbol of wit and resilience in the countryside. "Combe" comes from Old English cumb, meaning a valley or hollow, especially a short,
steep-sided depression in the landscape, common in southern England, particularly Surrey, Kent, and Sussex, where chalk downs and wooded valleys shaped settlement. The name preserves the natural and folkloric heritage of the locality within the modern suburban estate, symbolising resilience, cunning, and rootedness in the landscape.
Friarswood is a street name that means "woodland of the friars.” It preserves both the ecclesiastical and pastoral heritage of the locality within the modern suburban estate, symbolising spirituality, rootedness, and continuity with the landscape. It is across the valley from Monk's Hill, so named because that area was historically linked to monastic land under ecclesiastical ownership. Croydon was deeply tied to the Church: the Archbishops of Canterbury held Croydon Palace and later Addington Palace, and much of the surrounding land was under ecclesiastical control.
Forge Mews is a street name that means "the communal courtyard of the forge." Of course, Forge Mews is adjacent to the Addington Forge, a grade II listed building, built in 1740. Historically its main purpose was to shoe horses and to make and repair tools for farmers and members of the local community. Fast forward to the present day and you'll find a family run business that has been established for over 60 years, still offering the same services from times gone by, but also offering the fabrication of a variety of quality wrought iron work. The street is a cluster of homes gathered around a courtyard, echoing the forge's role as a focal point for local life. It preserves the industrial and communal heritage of Addington within the modern village, symbolising craftsmanship, transformation, and neighbourly life.
Fullers Wood is a street name that means “woodland of the fuller." A fuller was a craftsman in the cloth trade, responsible for cleansing and thickening woollen cloth by beating and washing it a vital stage in medieval textile production. The surname Fuller derives from this occupation, and in place-names it often commemorates either the craft itself, or land once associated with a family of that name. Fullers Wood, therefore, preserves both the craft heritage of cloth-making and the pastoral heritage of Addington within the modern suburban estate, symbolising industry, rootedness, and continuity with the landscape.
Gravel Hill was named for the gravelly soils of the Addington Hills, a.
prominent ridge in Croydon. The area was historically known as Priple- deane or Prible Dean, meaning “Gravel Valley” in Middle English (prebel : gravel, dene valley). The modern name Gravel Hill is a direct continuation of this description, emphasising the land's stony composition. Its name continues the medieval description of the area as "Gravel Valley," and it has long been a key route to Addington Palace and the surrounding estates. The name embodies both the physical geology and the historical significance of this landmark road.
The Green was named for the traditional village green the communal open space at the heart of settlement. It preserves the rural and parish heritage of the locality within the modern suburban estate, symbolising fellowship, continuity, and rootedness in the landscape.
Hartscroft is a street name that means "the croft of the stag." "Hart”, an archaic English word for a stag or male deer, often used in medieval poetry and heraldry, symbolises nobility, vitality, and the wild grace of the English countryside. “Croft” comes from Old English croft, meaning a small, enclosed field or farmstead, suggesting cultivated land, often adjacent to a house or village, used for grazing or crops. Hartscroft preserves both the natural heritage of deer in Surrey and the agrarian heritage of crofts within the modern suburban estate, symbolising nobility, vitality, and rootedness in the landscape.
The Heathfield Estate at the top of Gravel Hill was originally owned by Raymond Riesco and was acquired by Croydon Council in 1964. In the 40 years that Mr Riesco owned the land he changed it from a rundown farm to model estate set around a mansion and beautiful ornamental gardens. Heathfield means "field by the heath." Heathfield preserves the natural and pastoral heritage of Addington within the modern environment, symbolising openness, resilience, and rootedness in the landscape.
Hollywoods is a street name that means "the holly woods." It both the natural heritage of holly groves and the communal identity of clustered housing within the modern suburban estate, symbolising resilience, protection, and continuity with the landscape.
Holmbury Grove is a street name that means "grove by the holm oak settlement." "Holm”, an old English and Norse word meaning island or dry land in a marsh, but in place-names it often refers to the holm oak (Quercus ilex), a Mediterranean evergreen introduced to Britain and widely planted in estates. In Surrey, "Holm" is frequently associated with groves of oak or wooded uplands. Hiwever, "Holm" can mean several things (island, holm oak, dry land), so the exact intended meaning in Croydon's context is uncertain. Therefore, Holmbury Grove preserves both the woodland heritage of Surrey and the dignified antiquity of "bury," symbolising rootedness, antiquity, and pastoral charm within the modern suburban estate.
Huntingfield is a street name that means "field of the hunt." It preserves both the natural heritage of Surrey's game-rich landscape and the aristocratic tradition of hunting within the modern suburban estate, symbolising nobility, pursuit, and continuity with the land. Legend says that King Henry VIII is believed to have had a hunting lodge at Addington, and King Henry's Drive in New Addington is a modern reminder of this. This is often tied in with him romancing Anne Boleyn. Unfortunately, modern evidence suggests otherwise.
Inglewood is a street name that means "woodland of the hearth" or perhaps, at a stretch "woodland of the English." "Ingle", in northern English and Scots dialect, ingle means "fire" or "hearth." It evokes warmth, domesticity, and the central flame of the household. In some place-names, "Ingle" can also derive from Old English engle, meaning "English" or "people of the Angles." Inglewood preserves both the domestic imagery of the hearth and the pastoral heritage of woodland within the modern suburban estate, symbolising warmth, rootedness, and continuity with tradition.
Kent Gate Way is a road name that means "the way through the gate into Kent." It preserves the historic memory of the Surrey-Kent boundary, anchoring suburban identity in the symbolism of passage and transition.
PALM SUNDAY
Palm Sunday is on 29th March this year.
On this day Christians welcomed Jesus as he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. They threw palm leaves on the ground in front of him. They also waved palm branches and shouted "Hosanna." Palm leaves were a sign of goodness and victory.
Palm Sunday is the beginning of Holy Week which leads up to Easter. If you go to church on Palm Sunday you will be given a cross made from palm leaves.
Draw some people waving palm leaves. Now colour your picture in.
WOW!!
Thanks, o community, for your amazing response to our latest eco-initiative! I expected a trickle to expand gradually, but what I got was an avalanche! I had no doubt that we consumed a lot of medicaments between us (it sometimes feels like a competition - I'm on six a day and I'm amazingly fit and healthy!) but I thought it might be harder to convince us to take the trouble and then to remember to bring the blisters to church. But I had two big carrier- bags full by the end of the first week and the box in the porch still needs to be emptied most weeks.
If anyone comes across a collection-point for recyclable pill-blisters that is more convenient to get to than Boots in the Whitgift Centre, please let me know. Of course they are not heavy but they are bulky and for me it means a tram journey which I may not always be able to combine with something else I want to do in Croydon!
And if anyone sees this as a contribution they would like to make to the church's eco-credentials, please also have a word with me, the vicar or anyone on the eco-group. Someone else will have to do it from the end of April! It is not a hard job - remember to take a carrier bag with you to church, fill it from the box in the porch after the end of the service (leaving a few behind so that people know at a glance what the box is for!), take them home, and then every so often deliver them to the collection point - probably not more than once a month in practice.
You might have a nice encounter - in the Whitgift Boots there are chairs by the collection point for people waiting for their prescriptions to be made up, and they were very curious as to what this bloke with carrier bags was doing! Many had sat there several times without realising what that box was for, or that it was a thing. I even slipped in a bit of 'stealth evangelism' by making it clear it was an effort by a local church (largely so that no-one thought I needed all those pills myself…..)
A reminder that you can see how it works and what it's for at https:// www.facebook.com/TerraCycleUK/videos/how-does-terracycle-recycle-blister- packs/318497704682792/. If that's too laborious, put 'Terracycle blister packs' into google and you should find some videos on the theme of 'Ever wondered how...?'
Thanks again and love to all.
Edward
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Eucharist Common Worship (Order One, in traditional language) 10.00am The Parish Eucharist and Junior Church
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