Parish of Killay Magazine November 2017

Martin was the pioneer of western monasticism: he founded
the first monastery in the whole of Gaul about 360. He was
made Bishop of Tours in 372 – by popular demand of both
his clergy and his people.
As Bishop, Martin continued his simple life as a monk, - and
evangelist. Christianity had been largely confined to the
urban centres of population, but Martin went further, and
took Christianity to the pagani (country-men). For the next
25 years this greatly loved bishop travelled his diocese by
donkey and by boat, preaching the good news of Jesus
Christ, and helping his people to tear down their heathen
temples and sacred trees. He was sought out for his healing
prayers for the sick, and also his defence of the faith from
heretics.
Martin’s emblem in English art is often that of a goose,
whose annual migration is about this time of year.
So what is remembrance? – remembrance is looking back, to enable us to move forward with a
firmer step and a clarity of vision. The ‘Church Universal’ is going through challenging times, it is a
time where tradition is important, but also a time when we need to have a new vision, a vision that
will enthuse and communicate itself to our current often secular society. We use the strength of
history, of past times, to sculp new times, times that are yet to come, for one thing is certain, time
continues on.
“Go quickly now, and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from death, and now he is going to
Galilee ahead of you; there you will see him!’ Remember what I have told you.” (Matthew 28:7).
There is an urgency about this message, for this is the crux of the Christian hope, a hope that was
held on to during battles and a hope that needs telling to those around us today – that they might
remember.
Your Friend and Vicar
Canon Phillip
Progress at new Vicarage
Those who may have passed by, will have seen that the exterior is now complete, roof on, windows
and doors fitted. All internal first fix has been done, kitchen and second fix is about to be carried
out. We are told by the Site Manager that we should have the keys by the end of the month. It is
still our intention to move early in the New Year. So de-cluttering and sorting begins! – I think we
shall be on first name terms with the gentlemen at the Tip. Oh, and somebody told me that there’s
something called Christmas looming too!
Parish of Killay !5
2017