Shellrock Benefice

Good Friday was the first ‘church’ event of April. It was perfect weather – not too hot or raining - for the annual walk of witness from St James’ Church to Rockland All Saints. A small group of nine (and two dogs) took part, carrying the cross from St James’, through the village and along Penhill Road. At the crossroads half the group headed straight up to All Saints Church and the remainder turned right onto Mill Lane to walk through into Rocklands. We made good time and arrived before the start of the 2pm service. We’d love a few more faces to join us – staying for the service at All Saints is optional and you don’t have to be a member of our ‘usual’ congregation.

Easter Sunday dawned bright and early with some of us attending the Dawn Service at All Saints Church. It was a little breezy, but eventually the fire was lit and we watched as the sun rose in front of us.

The ‘normal’ Easter Sunday service in St James was a benefice Holy Communion. The church was decorated beautifully with flowers on the windows and moss, bark, nests, eggs and flowers artistically arranged on the sills in the porch. A magnificent sight welcoming visitors – thanks to Anne, Anita and all those involved. The choir assisted with the hymns. Their anthem after communion was ‘No scenes of stately majesty’ led by Colin on guitar and Kathryn on flute. Easter wouldn’t be complete without eggs, so the chocolate variety was distributed at the end!

Our Pop-up café was well supported with a stream of visitors. On offer during April was Tia Maria cake, sausage rolls and the ever-popular cemetery buns!

In April is St George’s Day. As the patron saint of Scouting, members of Great Ellingham Scout Group paraded through the village to hold a service in St James’, including renewal of their promises. The parade and service were complete with a decorated dragon. Thanks to everyone involved!

If you read this in time – on 25th and 26th April, we are excited to welcome Heather, Judy and Matt into church for their local history exhibition, with archaeological finds. The event will be open 10am – 4pm and refreshments will be available. This is always very popular and everyone is welcome – if you have connections with the village, an interest in local history or perhaps looking for help to research your own family, then this is a worthwhile visit. The theme is ‘Every house has a story – Every story has a family’.

Looking ahead to events in May we have the following: Saturday 9th May - Big Breakfast for Christian Aid. 9am – 11am, in church. Come along for hot food (bacon or sausages or a cheeky both), plus cereals, toast or fruit. All donations gratefully received and will be raising money for Christian Aid as part of their annual fundraising week. Cash and Contactless donations accepted.

STOP PRESS! - we have just booked a Grand Second Hand Book Sale on Saturday 27th June, 10am – 4pm. There will be thousands of books on sale, from just 25p.

FOODBANK – Did you know we support Thetford foodbank with a collection space in the church? There are desperately in need of tinned tomatoes, tinned fruit, sponge puddings and instant mash. Donations can be dropped off at church, or at either Rocklands or Great Ellingham village shops.

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