The month starts with All Souls' Day. This is a time when we recall those whom we no longer see. We think about family and friends who have died and we commit, or re-commit, their souls to God's care. The following week we remember those who died during conflict, both in the armed forces or as civilians.

Here in Britain there is a peculiar holiday called "Guy Fawkes Night" to break up the gloom. This consists three weeks of continuous fireworks, especially in the wee small hours of the morning, disturbing working people, pets and the elderly. These events were originally started to remind us of the danger to the crown and parliament of the Catholics in the gunpowder plot.. Guy Fawkes who was captured when the plot failed, was tortured for days on end before being slowly executed.

As November progresses into more darkness, cold and precipitation, the church calls us into a period of penetential reflection through Advent. To demonstrate this in a visible manner clergy, altars and churches cover themselves in dark purple.

Fortunately the church, especially St Augustines, provides a counter-point to the doom and gloom. At a Sunday evening service - 2nd November at 6.30pm - we invite all those who have lost loved-ones, to light a candle in their memory. This reminds us that souls never die. In heaven there is no suffering but instead eternal peace.

On Remebrance Day the church will add dignity to the memory of those who died from Slade Green. A service will be held at the memorial in the garden in the front of the church during the 10.30am service.

Finally, as Advent approaches, the church will point to the hope about to arrive in the form of Christmas.

Awaiting the bright lights and festive season - enjoy Guy Fawkes Day with a sense of humour.

John Upton

1st November 2003