July 2013 - Graffham Parish News

from Rev. Stephen GrayMy final letter!One Dominican Preacher said “If the only Prayer you make isThank you, that is enough”“Eucharist” basically means “Thanksgiving” and so it is withheavy heart but with much Thanksgiving that we depart thiswonderful community of Graffham. A big Thank you to somany who have made our time here so rich and welcomingand for making the various expressions of ministry so joyful.There have inevitably been terribly sad occasions where therole of Pastor and Priest has been imperative to minister, butalso there have been many times of praise and jubilation thathave wrought an abundance of joy and happiness which wewill foster for years to come. There are so many things we willmiss, not least of all the views! And Dudley my goldenLabrador of 15 who is buried in the Rectory Garden. (Whatwould I do without my Church Wardens who even dug an 8foot hole one Sunday morning for his resting place?!) But it’sthe people that make up a place and on you we will reflectwith affection, love and thanksgiving.Paul writes a warm letter to the Philippian Church whoopened their hearts and homes and were receptive to hismessage with these simple words: “I hold you in my heart.”And so before I sign off for the final time, on behalf of Fiona,Lucy, Amy and Millie, a HUGE thank you for your reception tous and we will forever hold you in our hearts.2