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March 2021 March 2021
AFFPUDDLE AND TURNERSPUDDLE PARISH
LETTER FROM THE BISHOP OF RAMSBURY,
COUNCIL
ANDREW RUMSEY

Lent has arrived, and a feeling that
the fields are ready to unfurl again.
We have been wintering in
confinement and uncertainty, weary
of the indoors and all too familiar with
these four walls. But the barn doors of
daylight are slowly being hauled
open and it is a relief to be
approaching the spring once more,
even if it reminds us how long we
have been living with this
extraordinary new life.

The approach to Lent called attention
to our longings and desires – from
Simeon and Anna at Candlemas,
patiently waiting for the consolation of their people, to the wilderness temptations
of Christ. Thirty years on, he embarks upon his ministry with acute awareness of all
that might draw him away, winning the battle to assert that his first and only true
appetite is for God, his Father. This is why some of us fast, of course: not to be
slimmer or more successfully devout, but to reorder our priorities and insist upon
seeking first the kingdom of heaven.
It is most encouraging – and often most effective – to do this in the little things. To
address the countless small choices we make each day, almost without thinking.
What we decide to buy, how we drive, or speak to others on the phone;
The Parish Council meeting on 10th February was once again held remotely in remembering to turn, however briefly, to Christ before the difficult encounter. To
order to comply with Government social distancing guidance. Until restrictions adapt an old maxim, if we offer the minutes to God, the hours will look after
around movement and public gatherings are lifted, the Parish Council will be themselves.
holding all meetings remotely.
And before our own efforts, of course, we are reminded that the Lord goes before

us, daily supplying our needs. Much has been taken away in recent months: may
Lockdown guidance the onset of spring bring a renewal of your strength and hope, by the grace and
mercy of God.
The Parish Council has been made aware of concerns from residents about the
number of visitors to the Parish during Lockdown. It appears that a significant With the assurance of my prayers,
number of visitors are travelling to the area to exercise rather than staying close to +Andrew
home. The Parish Council has received a poster from Dorset Council which will be
displayed on noticeboards and the Community Website as a reminder of current
Government Guidance.

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