Parish communion welcomed back the Rev Paul Beynon who, during the service, officiated at the baptism of his grandson Jacob James Stidworthy, son of James and Sarah, who were joined by a large family party.

Paul also gave the sermon which, in his usual way, combined serious matters of faith and doctrine with humorous tales guaranteed to make everyone laugh. He used all sorts of metaphors for how baptism changes people, such as creating a shelter in Jesus against the storms of life, rather as the Ark did at the great flood.

The Rev Jane Bradbury presided at communion, assisted by Canon David Miller, the Rev Dorothy Noakes and Betty Booker, lay reader. Mary Kells read the lesson and Andrew “Jake” Holyer led the prayers. During the communion, the choir sang Franck’s “Panis Angelicus” directed by Chris Bradbury and accompanied by Richard Berry.

Next weekend, St Michael’s will host Helston’s Flower Festival as part of the town’s commemoration of the centenary of the start of the First World War. Also on Saturday the church will hold its summer fayre with lots of interesting stalls, from 10am to 12.30pm.