This is not the official benefice website, but I felt that in these very difficult times for everyone that we might like to share in a more informal setting video clips, poems, pictures, songs - anything at all that we've found to be uplifting, inspiring and generally helpful to getting through the experiences of isolation and worry.
If you do have anything that you'd like to share, please email either a file or a link to me at mick@mickgowar.net and I'll do my best to include it on this site. God bless you all, and stay safe and try to stay happy.
And don't forget: if you need any help with shopping, collecting medication, information, or just reassurance, the quickest way is to call the Chard Covid-19 Support Group helpline on 01460 239567. You can also download a very useful list of various services and sources of help from the Support Group's FaceBook page at www.facebook.com/groups/1437188223117481/permalink/1470214576481512/ Look for 'Chard Resource List' in the Recent Group Files column on the right hand side of the page.
You can still access the special website of poems, prayers and music for Holy Week, and we now have a special Taizé-style service ready to share. This service includes special prayers and readings focusing on these very difficult times, when we are being kept apart due to the coronavirus pandemic; and when many of us have loved ones who have the virus, or are suffering from the fear and anxiety that are one of the unfortunate and widespread effects of the virus.
In the meantime, here is a prayer for these difficult and frightening times:
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy
in this time of uncertainty and distress.
Sustain and support the anxious and fearful,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may rejoice in your comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen.