25th October 2024.

One month ago today, I had the joy and privilege of being licensed and installed here at Beaulieu Abbey Church, St Paul’s and St Katharine’s.

How quickly that month has passed! It's been a whirlwind of joyful moments and meaningful encounters, from the red doors of Beaulieu High Street to the winding footpaths across our beautiful benefice.

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know this place and many of its residents - and yes, that means the donkeys, ponies, and cows too! There have been pastoral visits, churchyard clear-ups, coffee mornings, tea and Scrabble afternoons, school visits, harvest thanksgivings, and so much more. It has been a true and wonderful welcome, not only here in Beaulieu but also in Exbury and East Boldre. Already, Alexander, the children and I feel quite at home.

As we gently turn towards the end of 2024, we are also approaching the close of our church year. Soon, we’ll come together to mark All Saints’ and All Souls’, remembering those who have gone before us; then we’ll mark Remembrance Sunday, a day that holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a time for us to honour and remember those who gave their lives in service so that we might live in freedom. Soon after this, Christ the King Sunday. Then, with Advent, our new church year will begin in that beautiful season of expectant waiting for the Messiah.

Although I’m not delivering this from the Rectory study itself just yet (hopefully, next month!) I want to say how deeply grateful I am for the warmth, support, and kindness that has surrounded me and my family here. May we go forward together, rooted in God’s love and Christ’s faith, into all the blessings this season holds.

With love and prayers,

Reverend Catherine