Quote of the Week
‘We are far more united and have far more in common with each other than things that divide us’
(Jo Cox MP 1974-2016)
Thought for the Week
Stay calm and keep on praying! I’m always somewhat taken aback that many people are still under the misapprehension that prayer can only take place in a dedicated place of worship such as a church or cathedral. The truth is we can pray to God anytime, any place and anywhere. It does help if we can find somewhere away from distractions; this can be inside or out. There’s a wise saying: ‘Pray as you can and not as you can’t”. Some people find it hard to pray out loud; others prefer to do so in silence. Some like to light candles – that’s ok too. There’s no right or wrong way to pray. Just find what works best for you. Sometimes it’s helpful to have someone else pray for us. I know that some of you have been praying with others on the phone, online and face-to-face. Can I encourage you to continue doing so. Whatever method you use stay calm and keep on praying!
Sir William Garrow PC, KC, FRS
(13th April 1760 – 21st September 1840)
One of the most notable historical figures buried in the historic churchyard of St Laurence in Thanet in Ramsgate is Sir William Garrow who was an eminent English barrister, politician and judge.
A confidante of the Price of Wales and Solicitor-General Garrow was most famous for the phrase “presumed innocent until proven guilty”. A man of great principle, when invited to represent a company of slave traders responded: “Sir, if your committee would give me their whole income and all their estates, I would not be seen as the advocate of practices which I abhor and a system that I despise.”
Sir William Garrow had very close connections with the Parish of St Laurence in Thanet and even had his own pew opposite the current pulpit. He was generous in his giving and contributed to many charitable causes.
Sadly Sir Williams’s tomb is in need of tender restoration and St Laurence Church is eager for it to be restored to its former glory. We are in the process of initiating a community fundraising campaign to raise money to get the work done as well as installing CCTV around the church to help prevent criminal damage an theft.
Watch this space for further details.
And finally...
The new Parish website has been competed and once Freda and myself have been trained on how to edit and post, it will go live. Do let us have your church news stories and photographs so that we can keep it up to date.
www.stlaurenceparish-ramsgate.org.uk
With my love and prayers,
Andrew
Rev I Andrew Jacobson
Priest in Charge
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