From the Vicarage - July & August

March to May was reported as the sunniest on record. June brought showers, but also the longest day of the year. That said, I imagine most of us are still hoping for July and August to provide some of those long and sunny, lazy and hazy days, we all love to call summer! 

The impact and benefits of light, especially natural light, upon our health and well-being are also well recorded. The arrival of longer and lighter days in spring and summer, can cause people to behave in more positive ways. We often hear people advocating the ‘outdoor’ lifestyle, which requires a favourable climate. House-buyers frequently name their desire for a space which is flooded with light. Similarly, those who spend their working hours in well and naturally lit environments have been reported to not only be more likely to ‘feel good’ but also to work more effectively, creatively and productively. The biblical story of Creation (similar to the ancient stories of many cultures) begins with,

‘God said, ‘Let there be light’; and there was light. And God saw that the light was good.’ Later in the story we hear, ‘God made the two great lights—the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night… God set them in the dome of the sky to give light upon the earth…’

It would seem that the human mind and heart have always been ‘stirred’ by the beauty, the mystery, and the necessity of created Light. It is not surprising that Light quickly became associated with an understanding of the spiritual. Ancient people reached out to the sun in awe and wonder – and worshipped. The symbolism of Light is still embedded in the writings and prayers of the major world religions and plays a significant part in the festivals and practices of people of faith.

I remember being told as a child that ‘the Saints are the people who the Light shines through’ – a reference not only to the lives of holy people, but also to the stained-glass windows which often bear their likeness.

During this past year I have led a time of worship for each class from Collingham LEH School, in our village church, based around the story of St Oswald. Before leaving, each child has been invited to stand close to our St Oswald window – a little window, in the church’s southeast corner, largely hidden from view. But on a bright and sunny morning the Light shines through, illuminating the glass’s colours which tell Oswald’s faith-full story and illuminating the altar around which we worship.

Jesus said, “I am the Light of the World”; he also said, “You are the Light of the World”. During the long, light days of summer, how can we also be the people who let the Light shine through…for others?

And don’t forget in August, we invite you all to celebrate the story of St Oswald – Patron Saint of our Village Church and Community - in ways that are full of Faith and full of Fun!   (see advertisement elsewhere) 

Love & Prayers

Carolyn                                          The Reverend Carolyn A James