The mass on Sunday was a Requiem Mass to remember all who had died in the service of this country, in so doing also to bring to mind those injured through conflict.

Mass was conducted by Father Stephen Drakeley, priest-in-charge.

In contrast to most Sundays when the proceedings begin with the processional hymn, the choir, servers and clergy entered in silence, before Fr Stephen lead the confessional prayers.

Paul Jenkins read the lesson taken from the First Epistle of Peter, chapter 1 v 3-9. The gradual hymn “God is our strength and refuge” was sung to the tune “Dambusters March.”

John’s Gospel, chapter 15 v 9-17 was proclaimed by Fr Stephen. Jesus instructs His disciples on the subject of “love,” giving them a new commandment by which to live, “Love one another as I have loved you.” Greater lover has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Fr Stephen began his address by reminding the congregation of the fact that we celebrate two events within days of each other. The first the spectacular failure of Guy Fawkes to blow up the Houses of Parliament and then the remembrance of those who gave their all for us, encapsulated in the words “For your tomorrow, we gave our today.”

Intercessions were led by congregation members. The words “They shall not grow old” were then spoken before the Last Post and Reveille were sounded by trumpeter Hazel Bennett.

The mass ended with the hymn “Eternal Father strong to save,” in its new guise. Traditionally associated with the sea and sailors, verses now include soldiers and airmen in its sentiments.

Hazel Bennett (trumpet) accompanied by Roger King (organ) played an operatic aria by Handel “Let them weep,” (English translation).

Servers for the mass were David Fittock, Claire Eason-Bassett and Anthea Bancroft. Organist Roger King, church organist, sidesperson Sally Maynard.

Services for next week: Wednesday, 11am, low mass (St Martin). Saturday, 10am, Autumn Fayre. Sunday, 8am, low mass; 10am, sung parish mass.