The times they are a changin’

At All Saints church we thought we could use our entrance hall to show what each month offers us.
October brings the beautiful rich colours of trees in our gardens, parks and countryside. We offer our
ripe produce at harvest to our community, to local people, whether those in need using food banks
or just to show someone cares. The children dress up and enjoy Halloween, the pumpkins outside
houses giving a clue to where they will be welcome for trick or treat.
November turns misty and this year so much rain, and people worry about floods after the dry
summer. We have the excitement of bonfires and fireworks, both for Guy Fawkes and Divali. For
some people the noise can be too much, the fireworks are much louder these days, and they worry
about their pets. It seems that every time some group enjoys themselves another set are annoyed.
Compromise in a community can be difficult.
Remembrance Sunday is commemorated in November. Poppies are produced and on show
everywhere. We can’t just think about the two world wars. In every news bulletin we are reminded
that there is civil war in all parts of the world at this very moment.
December brings Christmas. Again I find controversy; Is it too early to put gifts and decorations in
the shops and garden centres? Is it just money-making or does it help to keep businesses alive? Does
it help families spread the cost? Have we forgotten why we have Christmas? Food and drink are
part of all religious festivals and Jesus attended a wedding feast with an excess of wine which the
guests drank dry.
We can enjoy our family time, presents and food, and still remember why we are celebrating.