The Beacon May 2012 - Beacon Parish of Ditchling, Streat ...

that he had at different times promised the succession of his throne to two
different people – Harold Godwinson and William of Normandy – set the stage
for an epic confrontation, the most famous battle in English history and the
transformation of England’s future.
Less than a century after Edward’s death, he was canonised by Pope Alexander
III in 1161. What were the grounds for this? Edward had taken a vow to make a
pilgrimage to St Peter’s tomb in Rome but when the journey became too
dangerous, the Pope converted Edward’s promised pilgrimage into the building
of a monastery dedicated to St Peter and so began the construction of
Westminster Abbey.
So given the choice between Edward and George, who would you choose to
have as the patron saint of England? Edward’s legacy is clear to see. Westminster
Abbey has been the focus for the nation’s devotion ever since the time of its
construction. Rubbing shoulders with the Houses of Parliament, it is the very
heart of our capital city. George, however, was a man who gave us a great
example of courage and faith. He reminds us of the importance of placing our
commitment to Christ above all other things, even if the cost to us is very, very
great.
Whether you would prefer George or Edward, both men serve to remind us of
the central and pivotal role that the Christian faith has played in the life and
history of our nation. Throughout the centuries, the Church, with all its flaws, has
been there at the heart of this land. So perhaps the ideal is that we celebrate
the legacy of both George and Edward by (to misquote Shakespeare) “Following
our spirit and crying ‘O God, bless England that we may live as faithfully as
William and George.’”
God bless
Fr David
Marjorie Lee - an acknowledgement
We would like to thank Fr David and everyone who came to join us in celebrating
Marjorie's life on April 10, many of whom were unknown to us. It was a truly
lovely service that leaves us with happy memories. Our sincere thanks go to the
choir members who led the singing so well and included the Anthem 'Lead me
Lord'. Thank you too for all your donations to St Margaret's Church.
Roger Earl, Susan Alder and Pauline Smith (Marjorie's siblings)
4