Let us do something bold and interesting this coming Ascension Day. The more so, because what once used to be a virtual (in the old sense of the word!) public holiday is now almost totally eclipsed by the drudgery of the every day. Let our faith make a difference to the daily round! Liz and I therefore propose a SILENT LITURGY on Ascension Day, which will involve and take place in all the Hillside Parishes, starting at 6.00 pm and finishing at 8.15 pm. N.B. You can start later and catch up without creating a disturbance, interruption or problem! We suggest you allow 20 minutes to walk to Over Silton and back from Nether Silton as part of the liturgy, and if you want to bicycle or ride round start earlier to suit you. The churches will be prepared and ready from noon. We will be in Leake from 7.45pm. If you have started earlier in the day and completed the stations, you might want to go direct to Leake by about 8.00 pm in time for the communion and finish. You start at Felixkirk at 6pm and pick up your stone. This is your burden; do not confuse this with Jeremiah 23, vv33-40, but do please read this. In your own time thereafter proceed to Leake by 8.00pm, stopping and pondering on the way at these other churches, where you will be presented with the opportunity to focus on and recollect the key symbols of our faith, because these are our resources.

At Kirby Knowle you will find the Font full of water, with which to make the sign of the cross on your forehead and reflect upon your baptismal vows. The lilies represent purity and new life to stimulate your prayers.

At Cowesby you will find the Gospel of the day open on the lectern for you to read and contemplate. You might like to compare it with Acts 1, vv1-11.

At Nether Silton there will be a large wooden cross, where you lay down your stone. This is for your own confessions. At Over Silton there will be an Icon and a tree on which to hang your prayers.

At Leake you are asked to light a candle on arrival, and put any prayers to be shared in a basket. We will finish with a Eucharistic Prayer and Communion, and the peace. Our best wishes and prayers, Toddy & Liz.