I've been taking services at South Kelsey, on and off, since 2011. When they haven't had a regular vicar I would go quite a lot. Today I offered to give M, their present vicar, a well-deserved day off.
The population of South Kelsey isn't large, around 650, but it has had two Anglican churches and three Methodist chapels but just St Mary's remains today. It's a big church for such a small village. Parts date from the thirteenth century but the church we can see today dates mostly from around 1795 and uses stone from St Nicholas church when that was demolished.
I thought this modern lectern fall was lovely. I didn't check but I'm pretty sure that it shows St Francis.
This is adapted from the Blessing I used today
May the joy of the angels, the eagerness
of the shepherds, the perseverance of the wise men, the obedience of Joseph and
Mary and the peace of the Christ Child, be ours this Christmas and for evermore. Amen.



Looks like a nice church and what a nice gift to the current vicar.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was in the "regulars" I used tto long for a Sunday off just after Christmas and I resolved to make sure somebody got one if I could.
DeleteI really like the adaptation from the Blessing you used. Lovely church and I'm sure the present vicar appreciated your offer of a day off. :)
ReplyDeleteIsn't it a lovely blessing! And with a user name like yours, you should know!
DeleteThank you for the beautiful blessing. I am sure the vicar enjoyed his day off while you worked in his (or her) stead.
ReplyDeleteI hope she did. It's lovely to be able to offer.
DeleteWhat a lovely Blessing.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favourites.
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