Monday 30th October

Yesterday we resumed our autumn series on Romans by thinking about how we can find peace in a stressful world – you can catch up here.  We said goodbye to Ike and Obi Odenigbo who will be returning to Nigeria this week – thank you Ike for your faithful service at St Stephen’s. We also heard news of the birth of Lily Grace Morrow (to James and Lucy) and pray for them at this special time.
 
Yesterday evening we had a joy filled service at the Grove Community Church where five people were baptised including Jos and Micah Johnson.
 
Next Sunday we have our usual traditional Communion at 9am and at 10.30am JAM (our children’s group) will be leading the All Age Service.  This will be followed by a bring and share lunch for families – a good number are coming but if you are yet to sign up please let Morgen Edwards (admin@ststephens-ealing.org) know as soon as possible.
 
Tomorrow is All Saints Eve (commonly known as Halloween).  At St Stephen’s we encourage families to celebrate light instead of darkness and a good alternative to ‘Trick or Treat’ is to attend a Light Party. Although we are unable to run our own event this year a couple of local churches are doing so and you can sign up to here at Haven Green Baptist Church and St John’s Church Mattock Lane.
 
If like me you are struggling with the daily news and wondering how to pray, Tearfund have issued a helpful guide to Praying for Israel/Gaza at this time – have a look here. 
 
Psalm 46:10  states Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.  May each of us find space to know His presence and peace during this week.
 
With my love,

Steve