Reflections from the Rectory

February for me is the beginning of hope and a reminder to lean into gratitude. Hope, as the early spring bulbs wrestle their way through the sodden earth, and gratitude that January is finished!

In the church year we are starting to look towards the season of Lent which begins on 18^th February.

As we turn the corner into 2026 we might be pausing to take stock of the year just gone and wondering what this year may look like for us. Perhaps it is about replacing some bad habits with good ones?

If you have never really engaged with Lent before could I encourage you to have a look at this 40acts: Do Lent generously      https://www.stewardship.org.uk/40acts

40 Acts is a programme designed to help us live generous lives which does not require that you sign up to any particular religion! Everyday there will be a new challenge from writing a note of encouragement to someone, to buying a small gift for a friend. All the family can take part – there are some great ideas for children too!

All you have to do is sign up and respond to the daily prompts – why not give it a go!

With love, Rev’d Kia Pakenham