Wellesbourne April 2009 Page One

AN EASTER RISING

A little more than an hour from Birmingham International Airport you can be almost at the centre of an event which challenged the might of an Empire 93 years ago. The Easter Rising as it became known took place in the heart of the City of Dublin in the spring of 1916 but its outcome was a disaster, not least for those who led it who suffered almost immediate execution.

However the somewhat euphemistic title seemed to reflect a promise and inspiration which would connect pretty much with the strong religious culture of the nation. It became also another historical milestone for the right of any country to shape its own destiny. The timing therefore fitted well with the season of the great Christian celebration of Eastertide and its promise of new beginnings and a new life in the springtime of the year.

Whatever popular opinion may say about the events of 1916 in the city of Dublin the sacrifice of the participants was finally rewarded a few years on in 1922. In a far more significant and deeper way the Event of Calvary, itself initially seen as a miserable failure, ended with a 'Rising' offering a promise and inspiration to any who will believe and accept it.

Not everyone will be ready or even able, perhaps, to believe something which seems to challenge the common sense or the perceived wisdom of the age whether the question is political or religious. Nevertheless we are free to choose when told that... “Everything is possible for those who have faith” (Mk.9.24). But the 'faith' referred to will always have to grapple with the 'world'... 1John 5.4

Fr. David

ST PETER’S TIDDLERS

Spring is in the air at Tiddlers this month and the children are exploring the topic of New Life. Seeds, including cress and broad beans have come home, and at the Church Centre the potatoes are nestled in their planters. Now we just need some lovely warm weather to make them sprout!

The children have been busy raising sponsorship for their sponsored Welly Walk around St Peters, a beautiful sight at this time of year with all the bulbs bursting into life. The children have been raising money for some new play equipment - always a worthy cause!

Our Easter Fair will take place on Saturday 4th April at the Church Centre in the early afternoon - watch out for the posters around the village a little nearer the time. Stalls will include our famous chocolate tombola, lucky envelopes and the most amazing raffle yet. The first prize in this amazing raffle? A day for 2 at the famous Wildmoor Spa - a prize worth around £170, you have to buy a ticket!

Coming in May is a Quiz Night. a fantastic evening with a ploughman's buffet supper. Tickets are £7.50 each for teams of up to 6, and are available from any of the committee or Cathy on 07931 920410. If you enjoy quizzes or word play look out for the new 'Fancy a tipple' quiz available now, and costing only £1 - 40 clues that will make you groan and laugh - it's a great brainteaser!