The Parish Magazine October 2025

The Parish Magazine —October 2025 1

The

Parish

Magazine

The John King Trophy

and Gold Award

Best Magazine 2018

National Parish Magazine

Awards

Best Overall 2015, 2020, 2022, 2023

Best Content 2016, 2021

Best Editor 2019

Best Print 2018

Serving the communities of Charvil, Sonning & Sonning Eye since 1869

October 2025 — Harvest

the church of st andrew, SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF

CHARVIL, SONNING and sonning eye SINCE THE 7 th CENTURY

Serving the communities of Charvil, Sonning & Sonning Eye since 1869


The John King Trophy

and Gold Award

Best Magazine 2018

National Parish Magazine

Awards

Best Overall 2015, 2020, 2022, 2023

Best Content 2016, 2021

Best Editor 2019

Best Print 2018

2 The Parish Magazine — October 2025

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information — 1

Contents October 2025

THE VICAR'S LETTEr, 5

THE PARISH NOTICEBOARD

— Lay minister retirement, 7

— Izzy Jeffery parish intern, 7

— Harvest Festival giving, 7

— Church car parking, 7

— Poppy appeal, 7

— Clocks go back one hour, 7

— For your prayers, 7

— Bible prayers Part Eight, 9

— STAY and young people, 10-11

— The Persecuted Church, 13

— From the editor's desk, 15

FEATURES

— Camaraderie and war, 17

— Tyndale Bible, 19

— Stained glass, 20-21

around tHE VILLages

— Bridge House, 23

— French Horn memory, 3

— Macmillan cancer support, 25

— Reading Black History, 25

— Charvil female voices, 25

FASHION

— Autumn celebration, 27

HISTORY

— Harvest, 29

— Creative Collection, 29

— Was it really?, 29

This ISSUE's FRONT COVER

The

Parish

Magazine

October 2025 — Harvest

the church of st andrew, SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF

CHARVIL, SONNING and sonning eye SINCE THE 7 th CENTURY

Harvest

Julia Sudnitskaya,

Dreamstime.com

EDITORIAL DEADLINE

The editorial deadline for every issue

of The Parish Magazine is 12 noon on

the sixth day of the month prior to the

date of publication.

The deadline for the November 2025

issue of The Parish Magazine is:

Monday 6 October at 12 noon

Recent issues of The Parish Magazine

can also be read online at

https://theparishmagazine.co.uk

For access to The Parish Magazine

archives which holds copies of the

magazine from 1869, please contact:

editor@theparishmagazine.co.uk


Services in

St Andrew's

Church Sonning

Sunday 5 October

— 8.00am Holy Communion

— 10.30am Harvest Family Service

— 4.00pm Harvest Evensong

Sunday 12 October


— 10.30am Parish Eucharist with

STAY and Sunday Club

— 6.00pm STAY Youth Service

Sunday 19 October


— 10.30am Parish Eucharist

— 3.00pm Messy Church in The Ark

Sunday 26 October


— 10.30am Parish Eucharist with

STAY and Sunday Club

— 5.45pm Sunday at Six in The Ark

OTHER REGULAR SERVICES

Mid-week Communion in The Ark is

held every Wednesday at 10.00am. Tea

and coffee follows the service.

Home Communion at Sonning

Gardens Care Home is held on the first

Monday of each month at 11.00am.

Your local estate agent

for extraordinary homes

IN THE GARDEN

— Afoot in the garden, 31

— TRHA summer successes, 31

THE ARTS

— Creation, 31

— Sonning Art Group, 31

HEALTH

— October health advice, 32-33

— Will writing, 33

PUZZLE PAGEs, 34-35

CHILDREN'S PAGE, 37

INFORMATION

— Church services, 3

— From the registers, 3

— Classified, 36

— Parish contacts, 38

— Advertisers' index, 38

From the Registers

weddings

— Saturday 23 August, Richard James Milne and Carolyn Mary Millar

FUNERALs

— Tuesday 19 August, Mavis June Fillingham, service in church followed by

cremation at Reading Crematorium

— Wednesday 20 August, Maureen Joyce Hick, interment of ashes in the

churchyard

4 The Parish Magazine —October 2025


The Parish Magazine — October 2025 5

The vicar's letter

The French Horn,

Sonning. Quality.

A continuing commitment to

wonderful food and wine.

0118 969 2204

www.thefrenchhorn.co.uk

DEAR FRIENDS

I was fortunate to grow up in rural Somerset and have fond memories of playing

on a farm, owned by a friend’s parents. When I think back to what we got up

to it is probably a miracle that we came to no harm, but these were in the pre-

‘health and safety’ days. I make no pretence of any particular knowledge of

farming, other than enjoying ‘Clarkson’s Farm’, but I am aware of some of the

huge pressures that farmers labour under. It is right as we celebrate the Harvest

that we pay tribute to our farming communities, not just in our parish, but

across the land. In addition to their hard work, so many others are involved in

the complicated process of bringing food to our shops, and for that we are also

grateful.

FOOD BANK

Because of the abundance of produce, from all over the world, that we can find

at anytime through the year on supermarket shelves, the importance of Harvest

celebrations has perhaps diminished in recent times. One important theme

remains though, and that is to remember to be grateful for bountiful provision

in a world where so many are hungry, and to do something practical to help. In

our case at St Andrew’s this year we shall be collecting both cash and tinned

and dried produce for the Woodley Food Bank at our 5 October services. Cash is

particularly useful for them as they can then buy the food that they are short of.

This is just a small way in which our own Christian community can help those

who are struggling.

PARABLE

Jesus had a great deal to say about the harvest, and of course that time of year was

incredibly important in the rural communities of the Holy Land. One of my favourite

passages on this theme is the parable of the sower. In my years in the priesthood this

parable has almost come to life so many times as I have witnessed the seeds of faith

either flourish or wither in people’s faith journeys. Some seeds are sown on the path

and birds quickly eat them. Some are sown on rocky places with little soil, and the

plant quickly sprang up but then was scorched by the sun and died because of a lack

of roots. Other seeds fell among thorns, and they were quickly choked and denied

nourishment. Finally, some seed was planted in good ground and produced many

crops.

Jesus's interpretation of his parable is found in Matthew 13: 19-23. Verse 19: When

anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes

and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path.

Verse 20: The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at

once receives it with joy. Verse 21: But since they have no root, they last only a short time.

When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Verse 22:

The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of

this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. Verse 23: But

the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This

is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.

NO ACCIDENT

A real, living and well rooted faith in Christ doesn’t just happen by accident. The

seeds of faith are faithfully sowed by God’s church but so much in life can distract

and divert us from the true path. A Christian is called to give priority to God above

all of life’s distractions and to ensure our faith is well rooted and nourished by

worship, prayer and study of the scriptures. As any farmer or keen gardener will tell

you, there are no short cuts. It is a labour-intensive process but if we stick at it, the

harvest will be rich indeed.

Warm wishes.

Jamie


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CHURCH NOTICES

Retirement of Bob Peters: This year marks the 25th

anniversary of the Licensing of Bob as our Lay Minister.

He has taken the decision to retire from active ministry,

and this will take effect in October. The Bishop will be

conferring the status of Emeritus Lay Minister and we

shall gather to give thanks for Bob’s ministry on Sunday

19 October at the 10.30am service. This will include a

presentation and reception in The Ark afterwards. Bob’s

position as editor of this Parish Magazine is unaffected by

his decision and so his valued work continues.

Izzy Jeffery: Having completed her A Levels, Izzy

has been appointed as ‘Parish Intern’ for a year and

will work primarily with Westy and Corinne on

youth projects.

Harvest Festival: On Sunday 5 October we shall

celebrate Harvest at both the Family Service at

10.30am and at 4pm Choral Evensong, followed by

a tea. Produce for the Woodley Food Bank will be

collected at the 10.30am service and cash collections

at the 8.00am, 10.30am and 4pm services will be donated

to this good cause.

Church car park: Please note that on Sundays, the car

park is reserved for the registered disabled and those with

serious mobility issues who are attending services.

St Andrew's Ark

Third Sunday of the month (accept August)

3pm — 4pm

Craft— Science — Puzzles

Stories — Games — Songs — Celebration

Free Food!

Third Sunday of 19 the October month (accept at 3pm August)

An afternoon of fun, 3pm fellowship — 4pmand a free meal together

Craft— A different Science theme — each Puzzles month

Stories — Games For more — Songs information: — Celebration

Free Corinne Food!

corinne@sonningparish.org.uk

An afternoon of fun, fellowship and a free meal together

the church of st andrew, SERVING THE

COMMUNITIES A different OF CHARVIL, theme each SONNING month and sonning eye

Church of St Andrew

Serving Sonning, Charvil & Sonning Eye

St Andrew's Ark

For more information:

Corinne

corinne@sonningparish.org.uk

messy church poster A0 Feb 2024.indd 1 15/01/2024 14:44:57


The national launch of this year's

Poppy Appeal starts this month

The Poppy remains a powerful symbol to

commemorate the sacrifices of our Armed

Forces and to show support to those still

serving today.

The Royal British Legion was first set up to

help those returning from the First World War.

Almost a Century on, they’re still helping today’s

Service people, veterans, and their families coping

with bereavement, living with disability or finding

employment.

The Poppy Appeal is always grateful for volunteers to

sell them. More information about this at:

https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer.

Don't be early for Church

on Sunday 26 October!

British Summer Time ends on the last Sunday of

October when the UK returns to Greenwich Mean

Time. This means clocks go back one hour at 2.00am

on Sunday 26 October.

For your

Prayers in

October. . .

— Farmers

— The work of Woodley

Food Bank

— Christian Aid's efforts in

relieving hunger

— Westy's continuing

training for the

Priesthood

Church of St Andrew


the church of st andrew, SERVING THE

COMMUNITIES OF CHARVIL, SONNING and sonning eye

messy church poster A0 Feb 2024.indd 1 15/01/2024 14:44:57

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BIBLE PRAYERS PART EIGHT

Praying for love and

holiness in our lives

By Rev Dr Herbert McGonigle, a former senior lecturer

in Historical Theology and Church History, Nazarene

Theological College, Manchester

1 Thessalonians 3:12, 13, says: ‘May the Lord … establish

your hearts unblameable in holiness.’ Paul’s first letter

to the Thessalonian church, dating from about 51AD,

is generally regarded as the first book in the New

Testament to have been written. This means that it is

the first prayer in the New Testament.

Paul has already highly commended the genuine

spiritual experience and character of these new

Christians. He thanked God for their faith, love and hope,

1:3; they were examples to others, 1:7; their faith in God

was being widely spoken about, 1:8; and having turned

from idolatry they were now serving the true God and

expecting Christ’s Second Coming, 1:9, 10. It is for these

new and enthusiastic believers that Paul now prays.

The prayer asks for two great blessings for these

Christians. First that they may abound in love toward

each other and to the world, and then that their conduct

will be characterised by holy living.

What a model prayer this is for Christians in every age!

Note Paul’s words, ‘may the Lord make you increase and

abound in love’ (v12). This is not merely asking that these

believers will love one another, but that their love will be

full and overflowing.

RECOGNISED BY LOVE

Perhaps Paul is recalling that Jesus said the world

would recognise his disciples by their love toward one

another (John 13:35).

But this love, the essence of Christian experience, is

not narrow or parochial. Paul prayed that their love would

abound not only to each other but also ‘to all men.’

What a picture of what Christ's church should be! All of

us who claim to be his people should be known by our love

for one another and for the world for which he died.

BLAMELESS

Then comes the second request in the prayer, that their

hearts will be ‘established unblameable in holiness.’ (v13).

The word translated ‘established’ means to be fixed, to be

settled, indicating constant character.

In this world no Christian can be faultless, but by God's

grace and mercy we are called to be blameless.

In the prayer Paul brings together the condition of

our hearts – overflowing in love, and the quality of our

conduct – steadfast in holy living.


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What a combination of holy love, a reflection of what

Jesus is!

There is another aspect of this prayer worth noting.

When Paul prays that the love of these Christians will

abound to each other, he adds that this is how he feels

about them; ‘as we do to you’ (v12).

Likewise, in 2:10 Paul says the Thessalonians are

witnesses of Jesus and is holy, righteous and blameless

conduct among the people of the world.

The love and holiness for which Paul prays for these

believers can be seen in his own life and work. Surely the

most pressing need in all our congregations is that all of

us as Christ’s disciples will consistently bear witness to his

love controlling our hearts and our conduct.

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Young people at St Andrew's


youthminister@sonningparish.org.uk

0794 622 4106

New STAY Youth Service

Starting on Sunday 12 October, we are

introducing our first STAY Youth Service. It

will take place every second Sunday of every

month at 6pm

The service will start in the main church

building where we will have communion and

worship before heading The Ark for a meal

together. All young people are welcome.

Please let Westy (contact details above) know

in advance if you are coming so we can cater

for everyone.

STAY on Sunday:

With the new Youth Service starting on 12

October the STAY on Sunday programme will

be slightly different in future. Here’s the new

plan:

First Sunday: 10.30am Family Service in the

church.

Second Sunday: 6pm the new STAY Youth

Service in church.

Third Sunday: 10.30am in The Ark for youth

led content.

Fourth Sunday: 10.30am in The Ark for the

new age-split youth groups.

Fifth Sunday: Community service Sunday

when we will choose what act of service we

want to do for the community.

Please get in touch if you would to be to be

involved or for more information.

STAY for the Summer Holiday

During July and August we had a fantastic

programme of summer activities for the

young people, including some new ones such

as Ultimate Frisbee, a rounders match, the

Aldershot Lido and Top Golf.

Then there was our popular ‘Give Back

Days’ such as litter picking, food parcel

making at gives.org in Swindon and Barnabas

Aid, and buying food for Reading Foodbank.

Plus we had lots of fun trips to Thorpe Park,

a Shaun the Sheep (Shaun is pictured above

right!) scavenger hunt in Reading and a craft

activity tie dying clothes, bags and pillow

cases.

Satellites Youth Camp:

The Satellites Youth Camp saw 25 of us

join over 4,000 others in a field in Shepton

Mallet! We worshipped God at two main

meetings a day, played sports such as spike

ball, table tennis, volleyball, pickleball,

basketball, pool, foosball, axe throwing, 90’s

consoles, flight simulators and more, which

meant eating cheesy chips at 10.30pm, then

there was bingo, karaoke and a silent disco.

The last night was music legends fancy dress!

Corinne@sonningparish.org.uk

0118 969 3298

STAY on Monday

We have also given STAY on Monday

a face lift and we are moving it to

every Monday from 6-7.15pm. It will

alternate between youth led weeks

in their homes and a bible study the

next week. We will continue to meet

in young peoples and youth leaders

homes.

STAY on Friday

STAY on Friday is our weekly, term

time only, Youth Club. It takes place

in The Ark from 6.45-8.15pm and

has lots of games, consoles, baking,

sports and more for all young people

in secondary school to enjoy. We

also welcome the year 6’s on the 4th

Friday of each month to aid their

transition to year 7.

STAY in schools

Our schools work takes place in the

four local schools, Charvil & Sonning

primary schools and Blue Coat and

Piggott secondary schools. Across

the schools we are able to provide

lunch clubs, a CU, assemblies,

worship leading sessions, prayer

meetings and mentoring to over 35

students.

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Nigeria: CBN, the Christian

Broadcasting Network, recently

reported that more than three

million Christians living in the

northern and Middle Belt regions of

Nigeria face persecution because of

their faith.

Atrocities committed in Nigeria

account for nearly 70% of Christians

killed globally.

One American humanitarian

non-profit organisation, Equipping

The Persecuted, is calling on the US

government to intervene to stop the

religious persecution.

In June, at least 218 people were

killed and more than 6,000 displaced

after a spate of attacks by suspected

Fulani militants in Benue State,

northern Nigeria.

Governor Alia, of Benue State,

said the state was firmly under siege

by 'terrorists'.

Open Doors have said that they

join the United Nations in calling

for action and an investigation. They

also said they call on the government

of Nigeria to take robust action to

stop violent militant attacks.

Christians are asked to sign an

Arise Africa petition that calls for

protection, justice, and restoration

for Christians affected by violence

and conflict in sub-Saharan Africa,

like those caught up in the Nigerian

attacks.

To sign the petition go to:

https://www.opendoorsuk.org/act/

arise-africa/africa-petition/

It is also possible to provide aid

such as water, shelter and clothing

by going to:

https://www.opendoorsuk.org/act/donate/

arise-africa/?campid=MCTCZZ/2405AP/WB9

Please also pray on Wednesday

22 October from 7.30-8.30pm when

there will be a special online event

to pray for our persecuted church

family in sub-Saharan Africa.

This will be in response to their

call to stop the violence and start the

healing. You can book via:

https://www.opendoorsuk.org/act/

arise-africa/


THE PERSECUTED CHURCH BY COLIN BAILEY

Nigerian Christians urgent call for global support

UNDER SIEGE

PETITION

The National Ecumenical Christian Centre, Nigeria

Palm Sunday procession in Ibadan Nigeria, March 2024

Hyotographics, Dreamstime.com

Emcamposphoto2, Dreamstime.com

Tolu Owoeye, Dreamstime.com

References and further reading

CBN article '3 Million Believers Under Siege': https://cbn.com/news/world/christiangenocide-nigeria-3-million-believers-under-siege-calls-us-intervention-mount

Open Doors article on deadly attacks in Nigeria: https://www.opendoorsuk.org/news/

latest-news/nigeria-deadly-attacks/

Open Doors Arise Africa petition: https://www.opendoorsuk.org/act/arise-africa/africapetition/

Open Doors Arise Africa giving: https://www.opendoorsuk.org/act/donate/ariseafrica/?campid=MCTCZZ/2405AP/WB9

Open Doors Arise Africa gener


Rendezvous in

The Ark

TUESDAY 14 & 28 OCTOBER

Now in our 7th successful year, Rendezvous in

The Ark continues to welcome everyone from 12

noon to meet for lunch followed by tea, coffee

and conversation on the second and fourth

Tuesday of every month.

For more details or to reserve your seat call:

0118 969 3298

office@sonningparish.org

Planning Your

Traditional Wedding?

Then you might like to

discuss the possibility of

marriage in our ancient and

beautiful parish church.

If so, call the vicar, Jamie

0118 969 3298

He will be pleased to help!

In addition to the stunning and historic location in Sonning,

we will work hard to provide you with a memorable and

moving occasion. We can provide a choir, organ, peal of

eight bells, beautiful flowers, over 100 lit candles set in

ornate Victorian chandeliers and the use of our beautiful

churchyard as a backdrop for your photographs.

Church of St Andrew


the church of st andrew SERVING CHARVIL,

SONNING & sonning eye since the 7 th century

Gardiner’s Homecare is an established family

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For more information, contact us on

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Throughout my life October has been

a month of mixed feelings. The main

issue being that I was born in 1946 on

the last day of October, making me a

Halloween baby!

In my childhood Halloween did not

exist, even though it has it roots in

medieval England when people went

'souling' — they went door to door

offering a prayer or a song in exchange

for food.

Souling took place on All Saint's Day

when Christians traditionally pray for

their departed loved ones.

In Victorian times, the food

usually given away was a 'soul cake'

which was a type of pasty.

Throughout my life I have seen the

traditional British approach to 'souling'

swamped by the American approach

to Halloween. The latter led to giving

sweets and chocolate to protect us

from a practical joke.

In 1946, Halloween was already

being celebrated in the United Sates

with parades, and parties and the

beginnings of the 'trick or treat'

tradition.

In the UK we still faced wartime

restrictions — food rationing lasted

until July 1954 — so that 'trick and

treating' was not really part of my

childhood.

Like many Christians, especially

parents, I have never been sure how I

should feel about Halloween.

Is it just harmless fun, or are there

aspects of it that don’t fit in with our

beliefs.

The only thing I was sure about was

that Halloween was a blight on my

birthday celebrations because there

was nowhere to go to get away from

what I believed were anti-Christian,

celebrations, so I usually hid at home

and refused to answer the door bell to

anyone.

One year my daughter, who was

living in London at the time, invited

me out for a birthday meal where

she assured me they would not be

celebrating Halloween. It turned out

to be a Mexican restaurant and they

were celebrating the Mexican Night

of the Dead, which, for all intents and

purposes was, of course, a version of

Halloween!

More recently, I was pleased to

receive from an editor of another

church magazine a copy of an article

taken, with permission, from https://

www.churchofenglandchristenings.org .

The following are edited extracts .

A child's christening service is very

honest about the reality of good and

evil, and Halloween can be a good time

to talk about those things and how

the love of Jesus can be a ‘Light in the

darkness’ for everyone.

The word ‘halloween’ means ‘the eve

of all hallows’ day’ — in other words,

the night before the church festival

celebrating All Saints.

A Saint (with a capital 'S') is usually

thought to be an exceptionally holy

person who did extraordinary things

because of their faith in God. Thus, the

famous Saints are all amazing examples

of what it’s like to live God’s way.

But in the Bible, St Paul calls all

Christians saints (with a lower case 's'),

meaning they are a friend of God, they

seek to live their life according to God’s

purposes.

When someone is christened, they

truly become a saint, so All Saints’ Day

is a celebration of the whole family of

God.

If you want to mark Halloween, here

are some ideas that will bless others


parish noticeboard —5

From

the

editor's

desk . . .

Avoiding the ghostly problems of life

BLIGHT

LIGHT

MutareHawk, Dreamstime.com

as well as being fun. Some churches

hold special events around this time.

There might be a ‘Light Party’ with

fun activities for children and young

people and these are a good way to

focus on all that’s life-giving and

positive about All Hallows.

Some churches, including St

Andrew's Sonning, have a special

service for All Souls Day. It is a time

when we remember our loved ones

who have died. During the service

there is an opportunity to light a

candle to remember a loved-one who

has died.

Also, there is nothing to stop you

having fun carving pumpkins, but

instead of a scary face, try using the

Christian symbol of the cross.

Christians believe that you can’t

fight evil with evil — you can only

fight evil with good, and that good

will always win in the end. So why not

carve a friendly looking pumpkin with

a cross year, as a sign that you and your

family are going to be a force for good

this Halloween?

You can do the same with

Halloween costumes. Superheroes

make a great, positive alternative to

scary witches and ghosts. And why

not give away a treat? Not everyone is

comfortable with the idea of children

asking for treats, so take a tray of

cookies for the children to give away!

Say a goodnight prayer. It can be

reassuring to remind them that love,

and light, and good, are always going

to be stronger than fear and evil.

The ancient service of Compline has

been used for centuries, and many of

its prayers are still well known today.

Alternatively use a simpler

children’s version: ‘Be with us, Lord,

and take away all fear, may your angels

protect us and give us peace. And bless us

always. Amen.’

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feature —1

Camaraderie,

friendship

and war

Everyone in Britain was given a gas

mask during World War II. They were

horrible things, smelt of rubber and

the goggles steamed up very quickly.

Preschool children had Mickey Mouse

masks. We had to take gas masks to

school in case gas bombs were dropped.

Fortunately neither the Allies or the

Axis chose to use this form of warfare.

The Nazis did drop incendiary bombs

that initially caused a lot of damage,

so households were issued a stirrup

pump to put out small fires.

These were like large bicycle

pumps about two foot long with a

square handle. You pumped with one

hand and guided a jet of water with

the other. Great fun in the summer!

WATCHING

Every locality organised a 'fire

watching' rota where all able-bodied

men took turns to walk the streets

all night to alert neighbours of any

dangers.

Although my father worked 12

hours a day he still took part in this.

My grandfather, who was considered

too old, organised the rota.

I accompanied him to the notice

board each week to display the rota

that had been carefully written in his

fine copper plate handwriting.

Hundreds of children were

evacuated to safer locations. It must

have been traumatising to be taken

away from their homes and families to

live with strangers many miles away.

Lots of the evacuees that came to

Caversham were from Croydon and

many of the boys joined my Scout

group.

Shortly after the war a number of

us went on a trip to Croydon to see our

friends again and we stayed over night

at one of their homes.

We had to take our rations of

course and in addition my mother

gave me a bag of broken biscuits from

Huntley & Palmers.

When the mother of the lad that

I was staying with saw them she got

Image:reddit.com

very excited — she had not seen a

biscuit since the start of the war!

My father, Fredrick Leonard

Masters (Len), was born in 1901 so

was too young to be conscripted

into the army and be involved in the

slaughter of World War I. However,

he did the patriotic thing and joined

the Territorial Army and became a

bandsman in the Royal Berkshire

Regiment. He played tuba in many

different bands until the 1960’s.

When World War II broke out he

was called up for the regular army,

but because he was almost too old

for military service and was a highly

skilled metal turner — classed as

a 'Reserved Occupation' — the

civil authorities asked for him to be

demobilised. His Commanding Officer

also clearly thought that he could serve

the country better making arms rather

than using them, and let him go. He

worked in a munition factory for the

rest of the war.

STOP ME

It was same place he had worked

since he left school making 'Stop Me

and Buy One' ice cream bicycles. He

worked 12 hours a day from 8 till 8,

three weeks in the day and three weeks

at night.

There's a 'Stop Me and By One'

tricycle at Bekonscot model village

which I like to think my father had a

hand in making!

He would often borrow one from

work to convey produce home from his

two allotments and when he left it at


home it became a plaything for me and

my friends, taking turns.

On one occasion there were two

girls in the box, me in the saddle, hardly

able to reach the pedals, and a couple of

boys pushing it. They pushed it too fast

and as it gained speed going downhill

it veered off into the kerb, tipped over,

and spilled the girls out on the path.

They went home crying, the boys ran

off and l was left with the problem of

getting a heavy ice cream bike, with a

badly buckled wheel, back home!

My Father's two allotments kept the

family supplied with all the vegetables

and soft fruit that we needed, swapping

some of it with eggs from the next door

neighbour.

Lorry loads of processed waste from

the local sewage farm was dumped at

the allotment site for holders to use as

fertiliser — I wonder what this stuff

gets used for now, maybe it finishes

up in bags of compost. This was part

of the government's 'Dig for Victory'

campaign.

My mother was kept busy looking

after her father and the household,

and preserving the fruit and vegetables

from the allotments by bottling and

making jam.

She knitted all the family's socks,

cardigans and pullovers. One of our

neighbours made me a jacket which

I didn't like very much as the sleeves

were too tight, but that's how people

helped one another — far more than

they do today!




feature —2

The Holy Bible according to Tyndale

ST ANDREW'S SONNING - PARISH MAGAZINE - 2025/26

Above: A copy of one of the first English language King James Authorised Bible's

printed in 1616. Right a recent copy of William Tyndale's New Testament translation.

This month is the 501st anniversary of the beginning of the Reformation,

and so it is a good time to pay tribute to William Tyndale (c1494— 6 October

1536) who was an outstanding English scholar, translator and martyr of the

Reformation. The Reformation was a 16th Century religious, political, and

cultural movement in Europe that challenged the authority of the Roman

Catholic Church. It led to the establishment of Protestantism.

William Tyndale was born near

Gloucester, and studied at Oxford

and Cambridge.

He could speak seven languages, and

was proficient in ancient Hebrew and

Greek.

As a priest, his abilities would

have taken him a long way, but by

1523 Tyndale’s only desire was to

translate the Bible so that English

men and women could read it for

themselves. It became his life’s

passion.

JUSTIFICATION

Tyndale recognised a vital

doctrine that the Church had been

ignoring: justification by faith.

He had found it when reading

Erasmus’s Greek edition of the New

Testament.

His life’s work was well summed

up in some words of his mentor,

Erasmus: 'Christ desires His mysteries

to be published abroad as widely as

possible. I would that [the Gospels and

the epistles of Paul] were translated

into all languages, of all Christian

people, and that they might be read.'

Tyndale’s translation of the Bible

was:

— The first to be published in

English,

— The first to draw directly from

Hebrew and Greek texts

— The first English translation to

take advantage of the printing press.

CHALLENGE

However, it was to cost him his

life because his work was seen as a

direct challenge to the power of both

the Roman Catholic Church and the

laws of England in maintaining the

Church’s position.

When the authorities had tried to

stop his translation, Tyndale fled to

Hamburg, Wittenberg, Cologne, and

finally to the Lutheran city of Worms.

It was there, in 1525, his New

Testament emerged, and it was

quickly smuggled into England,

making King Henry VIII, Cardinal

Wolsey, and others furious.

Tyndale moved on to Antwerp,

where for nine more years he

continued his work. Then in May 1535

he was betrayed, arrested, and jailed.

He was then sentenced to be tied

to the stake for strangulation and

burning, his dying prayer was that

the King of England’s eyes would be

opened.

AUTHORISED

And, sure enough, two years later

King Henry authorised the Great Bible

for the Church of England, which

relied largely on Tyndale’s work.

Not only that, but in 1611, the 54

scholars who produced the King James

Bible drew very heavily from Tyndale,

and even today we honour him: in

2002, Tyndale was placed at number

26 in the BBC’s poll of 100 Greatest

Britons.


FEATURE — 3


Christopher Bailey writes Part 3 of his series about the

unique stained glass windows in St Andrew's Church

Scenes from the

life of St Andrew

The Oxford Dictionary defines a reredos as 'an ornamental

screen covering the wall at the back of the altar'. It is derived

from the 14th century French word 'areredos' which has its

Latin roots of 'arere' meaning behind, and dorsom — ie back.

The reredos at St Andrew’s comprises four separate parts set

within a beautiful carved stonework frame. There is a main

centre panel, two side panels with statuary, and an arcade below

'encased' in a beautiful carved stonework surround.

In the Parish Magazine of January 1876, the stonework is

attributed to Mr Wheeler of Reading. He could have been Samuel

Wheeler (1819 - 1902) whose father, also Samuel, founded the

Tilehurst Potteries at Kenwood Hill. He turned from clay tile

making to stone masonry together with his brother Francis.

The Centre Stained Glass Panel

There is little detail of what the previous East Window looked

like prior to the installation of the reredos between 1868-1869,

although it is recorded that it was of 'painted glass', being

without decoration but in some ecclesiastical design.

Painted glass was introduced in Middle Ages to reduce glare from

the sunshine and is said to be the forerunner of stained glass.

What replaced it was not what you see now. It was a window

of painted glass by William Wailes (1808-1881), the subject being

the Transfiguration of Christ.

It is recorded that there was insufficient time given for the

work the re-opening after the reconstruction of the church.

As a result the finished work was considered 'inferior',

presumably by Henry Woodyer the architect and the Reverend

Hugh Pearson.

The figures were considered too large and the whole 'wanting

in refinement', because of the haste in completion and skills

required for painted glass were not readily available.

The Wailes window was removed and re-sited in the South

Chancel in 1869, and Hardman and Company were engaged

to provide the replacement which we now see. Both firms are

referred to in the previous article in this series.

The funds for the work were generously donated by the Palmer

family and is a memorial to them.

The central panel is of the Crucifixion, and the accompanying

side panels are scenes from the life of St Andrew, the hauling

in of the fishermen’s nets Jesus pointing out where they should

cast them, and the distribution of loaves and fish among the

assembled crowd. Above are three trefoil-style panes.

The topmost is thought to be Adam 'raising the brazen

serpent', and the two beneath Elijah and the widow of Sapeta on

the left, Abraham and Isaac on the right. Not surprisingly there

are St Andrew’s crosses at the bottom of the reredos to set the

whole in the context of our church, two at the foot of each of the

three panels. The finished works were described by the Rev High

Pearson as 'being exceedingly rich, and without darkening that

part of the church is a most beautiful ornament and a help to

devotional feeling'.

The Statues

Because of the beauty of the stained glass window the

adjacent statues flanking it might be considered superfluous.

However, they do have local references of interest and are

considered to be of great quality. The statues in the reredos

are recorded as being executed by 'Mr Nicholls the eminent

sculptor'. Further research suggests that this was

a Mr Thomas Nicholls of Lambeth (1825–1896). He

was almost certainly recommended by architect

Henry Woodyer as evidenced in an entry in

Public Sculpture of Britain: 'Nicholls’s reputation

for producing high quality work spread, with two

architects in particular – the above-mentioned Woodyer……… entrusting him

with the majority of their sculpture contracts. Nicholls’s executant work

includes a reredos and pulpit for Christ Church, Reading (1861–62).

According to reports in The Sonning Magazine the figures in the top row

are said to be St Andrew, St Peter, an angel holding a banner and St John

the Evangelist.

St Andrew has two staves representing the cross and Peter has a crowing

cock at his feet and a key which suggests being for the gates of heaven.

The angel’s banner has initials inscribed purporting to represent 'All

Saints' to represent the four churches in the Sonning Parish at the time that

served Sonning, Charvil, Sonning Eye, Dunsden, Woodley and Earley.

St John the Evangelist has an eagle at his feet which symbolises the

farsightedness and the heavenly visions described in his gospel.

The second row is said to be the emblems of the Evangelists holding

scriptures. They are accompanied by various animals and in one case a

child, the identities of both are difficult to discern.

It is interesting to speculate that all four are seated because of

insufficient height for them to be standing.

The eagle is seen as a creature that lives closest to heaven and can

look into the sun without being blinded. This is thought to symbolize

John's deep, mystical spirituality and his ability to gaze into the divine, as

described in his Gospel.

The next article in this series will focus on some of the other stained glass

windows in St Andrew's Church Sonning according to Rev Pearson and the

findings of other experts who have provided information about them.



around the villages — 1


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Bridge House of Twyford's home manger, Rachel

Stoneman hosted a special awards ceremony in

September that showcased the excellence of her team

and their exceptional service.

The ceremony illustrated the strength of the Bridge

House team, as awards focused on quality of service, and

long-term commitment. The standards, quality of care,

compassion and stimulation residents benefit from were

evident in every introduction made for each award.

Loyalty, high emotion and team spirit was apparent as

each recipient took to the stage to receive their accolades

with cheers, loud applause, and much delight from a wellrepresented

team.

VIP guests and residents also demonstrated their

appreciation as local Parish councillors Jackie Jagger and

Lesley Jarvis, and councillor Stephen Conway joined group

CEO Amar Sheikh to present the awards that were made

to over a third of the workforce.

SERVICE AWARDS

Some awards celebrated team members who have

completed between 5 and 16 years of service, along with

a group of 12 awards that were dedicated to members of

staff who make a significant difference to residents, their

peers, and the smooth running of the home and later

living community.

Home manager Rachel said. ‘‘This event was not only

the perfect platform to demonstrate our capabilities and high

retention, but it also confirms how longevity and commitment

provides a natural framework for our residents and their loved

ones. Residents and their families build trust and benefit from

a consistent, quality experience, we couldn’t do that without

the long-term commitment we have here, I am just incredibly

proud to be a part of it and can’t wait for the next awards in

three years’ time.’’

Fancy a chat over a cup of tea or coffee? If

so, call in to the Berkshire County Sports

Club in Sonning Lane RG4 6ST on a Friday

morning from 103am — 12pm where there

will be a cuppa waiting for you and a friendly

volunteer to keep you company.

While the future of the French Horn remains undecided

I thought a few Sonning 'buzzers' might be interested in

my recollections of it, writes Pam Glaspool.

I remember the hotel was owned and run by a lovely

cockney gentleman by the name of Frank Barnes. He

always said he didn't care who people were or what they

wore so long as they were happy to pay his prices!

He had a beautiful restaurant that fronted the

backwater and this is where stars and royalty frequented,

especially during Ascot and Henley regatta weeks.

However, there was also a small public bar that fronted

the road that was used regularly by the fishermen who

came by coach from London most weekends. I don't think

many locals used the bar, no doubt because of Mr Barnes

prices!

There was a lovely ancient box hedge between the

building and the bridge and my gran used sprigs from it

when she made up buttonholes for weddings and other

special occasions.

BAT-WOMAN RUTH

I thought the Emmanuel family were London relatives

of Mr Barnes who took over when he retired but maybe

that wasn't the case.

In 1936 Miss Catherine Cooper of Eyot House,

registered the Sonning girls club as 1st Sonning Girl

guides and the girls met in the barn at the back of the

French Horn.

Miss Cooper once told me that when two bombs were

dropped on Sonning Eye she rushed to check the Eye

children were all safe before discovering badly injured

cattle in the meadow and hundreds of dead fish in the

river.

When she returned from serving in World War II she

brought Ruth, her bat-woman, home with her. As far as I

can remember Ruth never had a surname!

As part of the fundraising efforts to build Beech Lodge

Guide and Scout hall we published a Sonning Recipe Book

(anyone still got a copy?) that includes a lovely fish recipe

from Mr Emmanuel and the French Horn.

When I retired from leading Sonning Girl Guides the

village gave Frank and I the most wonderful gift of an

evening meal at the French Horn restaurant and a night in

my old family home on the Furleigh.

It was a perfect gift and a magical, memorable stay.

Editor: Yes, I have copy of the Sonning Recipe Book!


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Help yourself

to help others

Macmillan Cancer Support exists

to do whatever it takes to support

people living with cancer in the UK,

but they can’t do it without you.

So they are asking you to get involved

in Sober October by going alcoholfree

for the month of October and in

doing so raise money for people with

cancer.

By going sober, you're not just

helping others, you're helping

yourself too. Giving up the booze

for a month comes with loads of

feel-good benefits, but the feeling of

raising vital funds for the millions of

people with cancer in the UK is the

best feeling of all.

Every penny raised will play

a vital role in helping Macmillan

Cancer Support fund critical services,

so we hope to see you take part in

Sober October this year, raising a

glass (of something non-alcoholic) to

help Macmillan continue supporting

people living with cancer.

Christmas is

coming - warm up

your vocal cords

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Charvil's local music singing

teacher and choir director, Suzanne

Newman, is holding a fun singing

afternoon for female voices on

Saturday 6 December in Charvil

Village Hall from 2-4 pm.

Suzanne said: 'We will be working on four

Christmas songs arranged for two-part choir

— Have yourself a merry little Christmas,

Jingle bells, O Christmas tree and Another

Christmas.

The £15 fee includes music and light

refreshments. To book your place contact ,

suzanneynewman@btinternet.com


Reading Black History month

A varied and engaging programme of music, dance, theatre and more will

highlight Reading's Black History Month 2024.

This year's events are taking place in venues across Reading borough from

1 – 31 October. They will highlight the rich and multifaceted heritage of black

communities, and the important and ongoing contributions they have made, to

both our town and across the country.

There is a packed line-up of inspiring and dance workshops, thoughtprovoking

film and theatre, award-winning live music, and more, with many

events free of charge.

Learn to play steel pan music with Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra

- RASPO: Families and all ages (7+) are welcome, and no previous music

experience is needed. All instruments and equipment provided. 16s and under

free, over 16s/adults £10 per class. 1, 8, 15 & 22 October, 5.30pm to 6.30pm,

CultureMix Arts & Music Centre. Book tickets on Eventbrite:

https://steelbandbeginnerscourse20.eventbrite.co.uk

Take your flag, a water bottle and comfortable clothes and get ready to

practice your carnival dance moves to some Soca beats with CultureMix!

This fun energetic dance class combines keep-fit routines with simple dance

steps for a fun dance workout to some of your favourite Caribbean music.

Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Saturdays 5, 12 & 19 October,

11am to 12pm. Book tickets £6.50 on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.

co.uk/e/soca-dance-class-tickets-1009183473937?aff=oddtdtcreator

The Dreamer - Saturday 12 October, 7pm at The Hexagon: A young boy has

a dream, that one day he will do something great. Loved dearly by his father,

but hated and despised by his older brothers, he is sold into a life of slavery

and eventually imprisoned and given a life sentence. Will his dreams come

true? Join us for this brand new gospel musical as we blend the ancient and the

contemporary to retell the amazing Joseph story.

Tickets £17.50. Book at:

https://www.whatsonreading.com/venues/hexagon/whats-on/dreamer, or call

the Box Office on 0118 960 6060

Creative Connection - Celebrating Black Filmmakers: Thursday 17 October,

6.15 pm to 8.30 pm, Reading Biscuit Factory. Through A Different Lens

welcomes you to the Creative Connection evening supported by the University

of Reading to celebrate independent films made by the black community,

including ‘The Nod: Tell Me You Got Me’ directed by Richard Ampeh/ It's a short

film exploring the black male experience of living in the UK. 18+. £5 per person,

book on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/creative-connectioncelebrating-black-filmmakers-tickets-1007867176857

RASPO Showcase - Saturday 19 October, 6.30pm— 8.30pm, CultureMix Arts &

Music Centre. An evening of cultural steelpan music for Black History Month.

Award-winning steel orchestra RASPO is established as one of the UK’s leading

steel bands. Tickets £5. Free entry for children under 12.

Book tickets on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/raspo-showcasetickets-1012785778527?aff=oddtdtcreator

Our Little Hour - Tuesday 29 October, 8pm — 10pm, South Street Arts Centre

A musical drama based on the life of Walter Tull, the legendary pioneering hero

Walter Tull is brought to the stage in a new musical drama by award-winning

playwright Dougie Blaxland and revered composer Chris Anthony. Tickets

£17.50 (£15.50 South Street Members).

Book at https://www.whatsonreading.com/our-little-hour.



FASHION


BY HARRIET NELSON

Autumn celebration of transformation

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October arrives like the final page of a

beloved book that you linger over, rereading

and reluctant to let it end.

As the last whispers of summer fade,

autumn steps gracefully into the

spotlight. The season changes into

colder weather, and the mornings start

with a chill. Darker evenings call for the

comfort of layers.

Our wardrobes begin to change again

as we bring out the warmer jumpers

and layers. We say a sad goodbye to our

beloved sundresses and surrender to

soft knits. Sandals retreat in favour of

sturdy winter boots. October fashion

is more than protection from the cold.

It’s a time to experiment in textures

and to create layered looks that are both

practical and stylish.

NECESSITY

Layering isn’t just a practical necessity,

it’s a form of styling. The trick lies in

combining pieces that not only serve

different functions throughout the

day but also complement each another

aesthetically.

Lightweight turtlenecks find their way

under blazers, slip dresses transform

when paired with chunky cardigans,

and oversized scarves become both

accessory and outerwear. The goal is

fashion that can adapt to fluctuating

temperatures, from sunny afternoons

to chilly evenings.

October fashion thrives on thick layers.

Wool becomes a staple bringing to life

jumpers and knits ready for the cosy

months ahead. Oversized coats provide

structure, and cashmere offers comfort.

Leather remains a staple from butterysoft

jackets to sturdy boots, while velvet

returns for elegance

October’s colour theory has always

revolved around warm earth tones

and Autumn colours, such as caramel

browns, burnt oranges, and deep

burgundies. This year, however, the

palette broadens with fresh, modern

twists. Jewel tones such as emerald and

sapphire add vibrancy, while mustard

yellow and cobalt inject unexpected

brightness into an otherwise muted

season. Metallic accents, such as

jewellery with gold and bronze, are

perfect to pair and style with any outfit.

For those who prefer subtlety, tonal

dressing remains a strong choice. Outfits

composed of varying shades of camel,

beige, or charcoal feel sophisticated

without being overpowering. Black is

a bold favourite and pairs with most

colours. A monochrome look, especially

when layered with different textures,

can be both understated and striking.

STATEMENT

No garment defines October quite like

outerwear. This season’s coats are not

only necessities, but statement pieces

of an outfit. Oversized blazers, tailored

trench coats, and leather bombers are

all having a moment. Silhouette also

has a role. Cropped jackets accentuate

high-waisted trousers or jeans, while

floor-length wool coats elongate and

add drama. Belted styles offer structure

and polish. In October, your coat isn’t

something to hide your outfit, it is

the outfit! October marks the official

beginning of boot season. Classic ankle

boots remain timeless, and knee-high

and over-the-knee styles are emerging

with renewed popularity.

For those who prefer the polished look,

sleek heeled boots elevate evening wear,

while loafers, paired with thick ribbed

socks, add an intellectual, preppy edge

to casual ensembles. The emphasis

this season is on footwear that blends

comfort, utility, and sophistication

while keeping you warm.

No October outfit feels complete

without accessories that strike a balance

between function and style. Wide belts

are great paired with oversized sweaters

and coats, creating flattering shapes out

of voluminous layers. Structured bags

in deep, saturated tones, such as forest

green, oxblood, and navy, add a sense

of refinement while providing a pop of

colour.

TIMELESS

Cold-weather staples also claim their

moment in October fashion. Leather

gloves are both elegant and practical,

perfect for adding refinement to an

outfit while keeping hands warm

during brisk mornings. They’re handy

for those early commutes, offering

comfort and grip on a cold steering

wheel. Wide-brimmed felt hats add

a touch of sophistication, blending

practicality with timeless charm.

Jewellery, meanwhile, leans bold this

season: chunky gold chains, sculptural

earrings, and layered rings that shine

even against the backdrop of heavy

knits, ensuring accessories remain just

as expressive as the clothes themselves.

As the days grow shorter and the nights

cooler, style becomes less about utility

and more about self-expression through

warmth and depth. This month is

not just a transition; it’s a celebration

of transformation. In fashion, as in

nature, this month reminds us that

change can be not only necessary, but

beautiful, practical and stylish. What

outfits will you be layering?

28 The Parish Magazine —October 2025 Please mention The Parish Magazine when responding to advertisements

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HISTORY

Harvest — one of the

oldest celebrations

that still exists today

The custom of celebrating successful harvests is one

of the most ancient festivals among many ancient

civilizations including, for example, the Chinese Shang

dynasty c1600—1046 BCE) and the ancient Egyptians.

Harvest festivals date from ancient pagan times with

community celebrations and rituals, ensuring survival

through winter. One such tradition was creating 'corn

dollies' from the last sheaf.

The Christian church harvest festival that we enjoy

today was introduced in 1843 by Rev Robert Hawker

of Morwenstow, Cornwall. It is usually celebrated on

the Sunday nearest to the harvest moon, which falls

around the autumn equinox. Typically this occurs in late

September or early October. This year the autumn equinox

is on Saturday 4 October.

At St Andrew's Church Sonning it has become the

custom to celebrate Harvest at our family service at

10.30am on the first Sunday of October. While produce

and tinned and dried food is welcomed, the preferred gift

is cash which is distributed to local charities.

The 'force' with 'daily bread'!

'Give us this day our daily bread' topped a poll for the

most recognisable words in the UK, beating 'May the

force be with you' from 'Star Wars'.

'Give us this day our daily bread' was recognised as

coming from the Lord’s Prayer by 80.3% of the 2,000

people polled. Surprisingly 89% of people said that they

had prayed it at some point, including 88% of those who

claimed they have no religion.

The Most Rev’d Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York,

explained that the meaning is challenging — ‘give me what

I need for today and stop me wanting more than my fair share’

and that ‘The whole human race urgently needs to learn what

‘enough’ looks like: so that the world is fed, but also in order for

the planet to be saved’.

The polling was done by Thy Kingdom Come, a global

ecumenical prayer movement.


Was it really . . . ?

. . . 750 YEARS AGO on 27 October 1275 that the city of

Amsterdam in the Netherlands is traditionally considered

to have been founded.

. . . 200 YEARS AGO on 25 October 1825 that Johann

Strauss II, was born. He is best known for his waltzes,

including The Blue Danube.

. . . 125 YEARS AGO on 20 October 1900 that the

American aviation pioneers the Wright Brothers made

their first untethered glider flight North Carolina.

. . . 100 YEARS AGO on 13 October 1925 that Margaret

Thatcher, Baroness Thatcher, was born. She was the first

female Prime Minister of Britain (1979-90). She died in 2013.

. . . 90 YEARS AGO on 12 October 1935 that Luciano

Pavorotti, Italian operatic tenor, was born. He is

considered to be one of the finest tenors of the 20th

Century, and one of the most commercially successful. He

died in 2007.

. . . 65 YEARS AGO on 30 October 1965 that Diego

Maradona was born. The Argentine footballer,

manager and coach is regarded as one of the

greatest

football players in history. He died in 2020.


Post Office Tower, now called the BT Tower, in

London was officially opened. It was then the

tallest building in the UK. The Shard is now the

tallest building having been completed in 2012


IRA detonated a bomb near the Ritz Hotel in

Piccadilly. One person was killed and at least 20 injured.

. . . 40 YEARS AGO on 1 October 1985 that riots broke

out in Toxteth, Liverpool and Peckham, London. Five days

later Met Police Constable Keith Blakelock was killed in

the Broadwater Farm housing estate riot in Tottenham.

He was the first British constable to be killed in a riot

since 1833.

. . . 25 YEARS AGO on 26 October 2000 that the BSE

Inquiry Report was published in the UK. It concluded that

the BSE, known as Mad Cow Disease, epidemic was caused

by the use of infected meat and bone meal in cattle feed.

. . . 20 YEARS AGO on 3 October 2005 that Ronnie

Barker, TV comedian, actor and writer, died. He was well

known for The Frost Report, The Two Ronnies, Porridge,

Going Straight and Open All Hours.

. . . ALSO 20 YEARS AGO on 18-26 October 2005 that

Hurricane Wilma, the most intense Atlantic hurricane

ever recorded, hit the Caribbean, Central America and

the eastern USA. 63 people died. The storm caused £18.1

billion worth of damage.

. . . 15 YEARS AGO on 13 October 2010 that 33 Chilean

miners, who had been trapped underground for 69 days

following the collapse of the San Jose copper-gold mine,

were rescued. Around one billion TV viewers around the

world watched them being rescued.

. . . 10 YEARS AGO on 26 October 2015 that the Hindu

Kush earthquake hit Afghanistan, India and Pakistan. At

least 399 people were killed, and 2,536 others injured.


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THE ARTS

In October we traditionally give thanks

for the good gifts of God’s creation at

harvest time and in our Bible readings

we often return to that original

goodness in the Garden of Eden which

is described in the opening chapters of

Genesis.

We can also see a glimpse of that garden's

heavenly harmony in Lucas Cranach’s

painting ‘Adam and Eve’ which shows

a wonderful menagerie of birds and

animals around the couple, all unaware

that the harmony will be shattered as

Adam takes the apple from Eve.

One version of this painting is in the

Courtauld Gallery of Somerset House

in London. It is a large, neoclassical

building by the Strand in the centre

of the city. In the summer months 55

fountains play in the courtyard outside, while in the

winter people skate on the ice rink.

Somerset House was built on the site of a Tudor palace and

dates from the 18th Century and today it is a centre for

the visual arts with an impressive collection of paintings.

Lucas Cranach, was born in 1472 in what is now

Bavaria. He became a court painter to the Electors of

Saxony until his death in 1553.

Cranach was a close friend of Martin Luther, but also

had Catholic patrons. In his painting of Adam and Eve we

are invited into the garden to look on all the beauty and

wonder there.

Among the animals we can see a hog, a lion — although

Cranach would never have seen a lion in the flesh — a

sheep, and a stag, a symbol of Christ.

There are birds as well, including a pair of partridges, who

traditionally represent the power of love, but also deceit.

The roe deer drinking from the pool in the foreground is a

reminder of Psalm 42 and the soul thirsting for God.

But dominating the scene is that moment of turning

from God: there is a glorious tree, laden with fruit, and

in front Adam and Eve, whose hands clutch an apple,

while the serpent slithers down the trunk in a moment of

triumph.

The painting is reminiscent of medieval tapestries and,

like them, has a beguiling quality. All is beautiful and

harmonious: it is Isaiah’s vision of the lion lying down

with the lamb amid the fruitfulness of nature and the

oneness of creation.


God's gifts of creation given at harvest time

and shared at every Holy Communion

Rev Michael Burgess continues his survey of works of sacred art that can be found in museums

SOMERSET HOUSE

ANIMALS

GLORIOUS TREE

As we look on, we know that the defiance of God and

the temptation to eat will lose this paradise. But we also

know that creation will be redeemed by another fruit.

Around Adam and Eve are the vine and grapes: they

represent the Eucharist, the gift of Christ’s body and

blood.

The fruit of the tree in the painting leads to a fall from

grace, but the fruit from that other tree, the vine, will

redeem and lift humanity again to share in the bread and

wine, the gifts of creation given at harvest and shared at

every Holy Communion.

Sonning Art Group

keeps cool painting

— and partying!

Sonning Art Group continued

painting throughout the summer

in Pearson Hall, which remained

relatively cool inside.

One highlight was a surprise

party for the art group's

chairlady, Sue Bell, to

celebrate her 80th birthday.

Sue became chairlady of the

art group 15 years ago after

its founder retired.

Lucas Cranach’s Adam and Eve, public domain

REDEEMED


HEALTH — 1

October health advice and action

By Anne Elgeti, SE Transition Plan Programme, deputy director, NHS England

October often feels like a month of transition as it offers fleeting moments of sunshine and

warmth amid the vibrant tapestry of autumn leaves, just before colder days and longer nights

settle in.

For many, this seasonal shift is a

welcome embrace of cosy jumpers

and hot drinks. Yet, the shorter days

and fading sunlight can also bring

challenges — particularly around

mood and wellbeing.

As daylight hours dwindle, feelings

of loneliness and seasonal depression

may become more common.

And with the sun’s strength

reduced, our natural intake of

Vitamin D can drop significantly,

putting everyone at greater risk of

deficiency.

This month let us be mindful of

the changes — both beautiful and

subtle — and take steps to support

our health and each other as we move

toward winter.

WINTER VITAMIN D

As daylight hours decrease and the

sun’s intensity fades, our natural

production of Vitamin D can take a

hit.

This essential nutrient plays a

key role in bone health, immune

function, and mood regulation.

Since the sun is not strong enough

in the colder months to produce

adequate Vitamin D, you should

consider the following to help

maintain healthy levels:

— Get outside when you can: Even

brief exposure to sunlight around

midday can help.

— Consider a supplement: public

health guidelines in the UK

recommend Vitamin D supplements

during autumn and winter, especially

if you spend most of your time

indoors.

— Eat Vitamin D-rich food: oily fish

such as salmon and mackerel, eggs,

fortified cereals and mushrooms.

This is especially important if you:

— Spend most of your time indoors

— Wear clothing that covers most of

your skin

— Have darker skin tones which

naturally produce less Vitamin D

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

is often referred to as 'winter

depression' because it tends to

become more noticeable and intense

during the colder, darker months.

While it is commonly associated

with winter, it is important to note

that some individuals experience

symptoms during the summer and

feel better in winter.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of SAD include:

— Persistent low mood

— Loss of pleasure or interest in

normal everyday activities

— Irritability

— Feelings of despair, guilt, or

worthlessness

— Lethargy (lack of energy) and

feeling sleepy in the day

— Sleeping for longer than usual

and finding it hard to get up in

the morning

— Craving carbohydrates and

gaining weight

The exact cause of SAD is not fully

understood, but it is often linked to

reduced exposure to sunlight during

the shorter autumn and winter days.

The main theory is that a lack of

sunlight might stop the part of the

brain known as the hypothalamus

from working properly, affecting the

three essential functions

— Production of melatonin (a

naturally produced hormone

which makes you feel sleepy)

— production of serotonin (a

hormone affecting mood,

appetite,

and sleep)

— disrupting the body’s internal

clock, the circadian rhythm. Your

body uses sunlight to time

various essential functions, such

as when you wake up, so lower

light levels during the winter

may disrupt your body clock.

TREATMENTS

There are a range of treatments

available for SAD some of which you

can try yourself before seeing your

GP, if you feel this is appropriate.

Lifestyle measures: getting as much

sunlight as possible, exercising

regularly and managing your stress

levels.

Light therapy: you can buy special

lights (light box) which simulate

exposure to sunlight. These are

available in some high street stores

and on-line. If you have a medical

certificate which states you have

SAD, you do not have to pay VAT.

The retailer’s customer service team

will be able to tell you how to claim

reimbursement. Check before buying.

Talking Therapies: You can selfrefer

to talking therapies for

counselling or therapy.

You should consider seeing your GP

if you think you have SAD and are

struggling to cope. The GP can check

your mental health and wellbeing

and may prescribe an antidepressant

medication such as selective serotonin

reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

NHS VITAMIN D GUIDANCE

The Department of Health and Social

Care recommend:

Babies (0-1 year) should receive

8.5-10 micrograms daily if breast

fed, or if formula fed and consuming

less than 500 ml of infant formula

per day.

Children (1-4 years) should be given

10 micrograms daily throughout the

year

Adults (including pregnant and

breast feeding women) should

consider taking a daily supplement

containing 10 micrograms (400IU)

of Vitam in D3 (cholecalciferol),

which is the preferred form of

supplementation.

Further information from:

https://www.nhs.uk/

vitaminandminerals/vitamin-d

Blood transfusions

and Hepatitis C:

What you need to

know and do!

If you received a blood transfusion

before 1996, there is a small chance

you may have been given blood

infected with Hepatitis C, a virus

that can seriously affect your liver

over time

HEPATITIS C

Hepatitis C often has no symptoms

for years, but left untreated, it can

lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, or

even liver cancer.

The good news is, that modern

treatments are highly effective, easy

to take, and usually come with no

side effects.

CONTACT YOUR GP

First contact your GP surgery to

check whether you have ever been

tested for Hepatitis C.

Order a free, confidential home test

at hepctest.nhs.uk

If diagnosed, treatment is available

through the NHS and can often cure

the infection completely.

SAVES LIVES

Early detection saves lives, so please

share this message with anyone who

may have had a transfusion before

1996 — especially older relatives or

friends who might not be aware of

the availability of the tests.

OTHER VACCINES FOR

PREGNANT WOMEN

If you are pregnant, your midwife

of GP should offer the following

vaccines to help protect you and tour

baby when it is born.

Flu vaccines will be offered during

the flu season;

Whooping Cough vaccine around 20

weeks of pregnancy;

RSV vaccine from about 28 weeks of

pregnancy.

Measles warning

We are currently seeing a

concerning rise in measles cases

across England. In 2024 , there were

2,911 laboratory confirmed cases,

and outbreaks continue into 2025.

One measles outbreak in Liverpool

led to 17 people being admitted to

hospital, and there was the tragic

death of a child during the summer.

Measles is one of the most infectious

diseases in the world. It spreads

easily from person to person through

coughs and sneezes, and can cause

serious complications, including:

— ear infections

— seizures (fits)

— diarrhoea and dehydration

— in rare cases, meningitis and

encephalitis (inflammation of the

brain), which can result in long term

disability or death.

Please check that your family's MMR

(Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)

vaccinations are up to date.

The NHS recommends the first dose

around 12 months, and the second

dose at 3 years and 4 months

If you are unsure of your, or your

child's vaccination status, contact

your GP.

Catchup vaccinations are available

and free of charge.

You can find the full vaccination

schedule at:

https://nhs.uk/vaccinations

Vaccination is the most effective way

to protect children, and the wider

community, from measles and its

complications,

Anne Elgeti works for NHS England SE Region. She has

over 20 years’ experience leading service transformation and

improvement in the NHS and is currently Deputy Director for the

Regional Transformation Programme.

Andrey Popov, dreamstime.com


WILL WRITING

Flynt, dreamstime.com

Have you been putting off writing

or updating your Will? Next month

— November — the charity Will

Aid’s ‘Make a Will Month’ will offer

you the opportunity to put your

affairs in order, secure your loved

one’s future and give to charities

helping those in need.

Participating solicitors are inviting

people to contact them now to book

appointments for November, when

they will prepare basic Wills without

charging their normal fee.

All that they will ask in return

is that clients consider making a

voluntary donation to Will Aid. The

suggested donation is just £120 for

a single Will, or £200 for a pair of

mirror Wills.

The money raised will be shared by

nine UK charities:

— ActionAid

— Age UK

— British Red Cross

— Christian Aid

— Crisis

—NSPCC

—SCIAF (Scotland)

— Trocaire (Northern Ireland).

As many as half of all adults in the

UK don’t have a Will. They have not

made any legally valid provision for

what they would like to happen after

their death. This can lead to a great

deal of stress and uncertainty, as well

as financial hardship, for those left

behind.

Even if you have a Will, it is

important to keep it up to date.

Experts recommend routinely

reviewing a Will every three to five

years, and making a new Will as soon

as significant family changes occur.

More at https://www.willaid.org.

uk/register. Please book early

as solicitors tend to fill their

appointments very quickly.


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PUZZLE PAGE

RALPH'S BIBLE GARDEN FLOWER VERSE SEARCH

CODEWORD

ANSWERS FOR RALPH'S

SEPTEMBER PUZZLE

ABRAHAM

ADAM

BARABAS

BENJAMIN

DANIEL

DELILAH

ELIJAH

ELIZABETH

ESTER

EZEKIEL

GABRIEL

HABAKKUK

HANNAH

ISAAC

JACOB

JEREMIAH

JESSE

JOSEPH

The hidden verse in September was from the Good News Bible, Numbers 17:2

WRITE EACH MAN'S NAME ON HIS STICK

9 13 23 19 17 2 13 2 1 2 7 2

25 9 21 1 21 17 13

13 22 17 10 15 9 10 11 15 13 19

1 8 9 14 20 13 16

15 13 9 10 15 25 13 9 1 19

10 1 18 20 12 6 13

SUDOKU


JOSHUA

JUDAS

LEAH

MALACHI

MATTHEW

METHUSELAH

NAOMI

NEHEMIAH

NOAH

OBADIAH

PETER

PHILEMON

RACHEL

REBECCA

SALOME

TIMOTHY

ZACHARIAH

SEPTEMBER

Solutions

BIBLE CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

WORDSEARCH

2 26 24 10 17 11 2 23 17 19 19 2

26 13 24 2 19 3 2

19 10 22 17 10 24 1 12 26 9

1 17 23 16 12 26 1

12 9 1 24 13 1 25 10 9 13 24

CODEWORD

13 23 24 9 13 1 4

24 1 3 2 24 10 2 2 26 19 5 13

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

I

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

L Q

Each of the nine blocks has to contain all the numbers

1-9. Each number can only appear once in a row,

column or box.

PHIL MASON'S TAKE ON LIFE . . .

Another lovely day at the river!

Someone's pulled the wool over her eyes!

“Ah, another lovely day by the river!”



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38 The Parish Magazine — October 2025 Please mention The Parish Magazine when replying to advertisements

information — 2

Parish contacts

Ministry Team

— The Vicar: Revd Jamie Taylor (Day off Friday)

The Parish Office, Thames Street, Sonning, RG4 6UR

vicar@sonningparish.org.uk / 0118 969 3298

— Youth Minister: Chris West (Westy)

youthminister@sonningparish.org.uk / 0794 622 4106

— Youth and Childrens Minister: Corinne

corinne@sonningparish.org.uk / 0118 969 3298

— Licensed Lay Minister: Bob Peters

bob@sonningparish.org.uk / 0118 377 5887

— Pastoral Assistant/Verger: Richard Hogg, 0118 969 3298

Churchwardens

— Liz Nelson, liz.nelson1@ntlworld.com / 0779 194 4270

— Ruth Jeffery, ruth@jefferyfamily.net / 0797 101 8730

Deputy Churchwardens

— Kevin Wilson, kevinmichaelwilson@gmail.com / 0118 969 3298

— Sue Peters, mail@susanjpeters.com / 0118 377 5887

Parish Office Manager

— Hilary Rennie, office@sonningparish.org.uk / 0118 969 3298

Parochial Church Council

— Secretary: Hilary Rennie 0118 969 3298

— Treasurer: Jerry Wood 0118 969 3298

Director of Music, Organist and Choirmaster

— Richard Meehan MA ARCO

music@sonningparish.org.uk

Safeguarding Officer

— Nicola Riley: nic.nige@sky.com / 0742 517 3359

Sonning Bell Ringers

— Tower Captain: Pam Elliston

pam.elliston@talktalk.net / 0118 969 5967

— Deputy Tower Captain: Rob Needham

r06needham@gmail.com / 0118 926 7724

St Andrew's Church Parish Website

https://www.sonningparish.org.uk

Advertisers' index

Abbeyfield Care 36

Abbey School 39

A B Walker Funeral Directors 8

ACG Locksmith Services 36

Active Security 34

All Aerials 36

AMS Water Softeners 12

Avery Collection Care Home 26

Barn Store 22

Berkshire Stump Removals 36

BHR Maintenance 30

Big Heart Tree Care 36

Blandy & Blandy Solicitors 12

Blue Moose Quality Graphics 24

Bridges Meals on Wheels 22

Canon Tree Care 34

Clark Bicknell Plumbing & Heating 36

Crosfields School 8

Drone House Surveys 36

French Horn 4

Gardiners Homecare 14

Good Oaks Home Care 24

Handyman & Decorating Services 36

Haslams Estate Agents 2

Hicks MOT & Service 16

Home Stairlifts 22

I Plumber 8

Kingfisher Bathrooms & Kitchens 34

Lock Fit 22

MC Cleaning 36

Mossinator Roof Cleaning Systems 6

Muck & Mulch Garden Supplies 30

Professional Tree & Hedge Services 36 40

Reading Blue Coat School 12

Richfield Flooring 8

Right at Home 18

Shiplake College 24

Smallwood Landscaping 22

Smove Ride 30

Sonning Golf Club 16

Sonning Scouts 28

Thames Chimney Sweeps 36

Thames Valley Water Softeners 18

The Bull Inn Sonning 28

The Great House Coppa Club 28

The Mill at Sonning 40

The Window Cleaner 30

Tomalin & Son Funeral Directors 12

Tudor Chimney Services 6

Watchmaker 36

Water Softener Salt 22



The Parish Magazine: https://www.theparishmagazine.co.uk

— Editor: Bob Peters

editor@theparishmagazine.co.uk / 0118 377 5887

— Advertising: Ian and Lauren McCann

ianmacpne@outlook.com / 0776 815 1100

— Print and Distribution: Gordon Nutbrown

gordon@caxtonhouse.co.uk / 0118 969 3282

The Parish Magazine is produced by St Andrew’s PCC and delivered

free of charge to every home in Charvil, Sonning and Sonning Eye.

The Parish Magazine is printed in the United Kingdom by

Sarum Graphics Ltd, Old Sarum, Salisbury SP4 6QX.

The Parish Magazine template was designed in 2012 by

Roger Swindale rogerswindale@hotmail.co.uk

and David Woodward david@designforprint.org

theabbey.co.uk

AB0076_The_Abbey_PGF_Ads_SS_255x175.indd 1 20/05/2025 15:45



Plays, Musicals, Comedy, Magic, and Children's Events...

From side-splitting laughter to jaw-dropping illusions and heartwarming stories, there's something for everyone in

this unique venue. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic and enjoy a captivating performance paired with a

delicious two-course meal in our restaurant (included unless otherwise specified).

Plus, mark your calendars: Children's Storytime returns on 24th September 2025.

18 SEP 2025 - 8 NOV 2025

20 NOV 2025 - 17 JAN 2026

The Parish Magazine October 2025

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