Hidden details. There are so many hidden acts of devotion and love within our parish churches and this is just one example. Look at the careful and exquisite embroidery on this altar cloth in the South Chapel, created with such care and love, rarely seen by many, yet offered for the God of us all.

Compline ~ Night Prayer during Lent ~ Wednesday 25th February

LENT TALK: A History of Holy Week with Fr Mark Hill. 2pm Thursday 26th Feb in The Old Parsonage. All are welcome. This talk is being hosted by the MU

Our Lent Talks began this evening with Fr Richard leading us into Lent with Bach’s St John’s Passion, ‘Vanities’ by the Dutch painter Harmen Steenwyck and the poem ‘Wild Geese’ by Mary Oliver. Next week we have two talks: A History of Holy Week by Fr.Mark on Thursday at 2pm (with the MU) and then Hunger & the Heart of God by Mthr. Arwen on Saturday at 5.30pm (in aid of Mary’s Meals)

Services on 22nd February ~ The First Sunday of Lent 9.45am ~ Sung Eucharist 12.15pm ~ BCP Eucharist 6.00pm ~ Sung Evensong 9.45 Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/live/kuAhl2FqCAU?si=eas86RiEN2J2S3CO Image: Gustave Doré 1832 – 1883 The Temptation by the Devil engraving — 1865

Friday 20th Feb 12noon - Stations of the Cross 12.30pm - Lent Lunch for Mary’s Meals Saturday 21st - The first Lent Talk 5.30pm with Fr Richard Coles exploring Lent and Literature in the Old Parsonage All are welcome

My personal Lent book: Today it asks what is the ‘Turkish Delight’ temptation that turns your head, as Edwin’s was turned, leading him into difficult waters. Reminds me of an art therapist I once worked with who cautioned me (during my foray into politics) to ‘beware the golden blancmange’. Looks delicious but tastes of nothing, looks plenteous but nourishes little. (Mthr. Arwen)

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent in the church’s year. We invite you to walk the way with us at St. Mary’s. For details of our Lent lunches, talks and services, please see our website and booking link http://www.stmaryseastbourne.co.uk/lent2026

Booking for our Pre-Easter workshop has opened - join us!

Do you love singing? Our Junior Choir is accepting new members! Come and learn how to sing with others in a safe, fun and friendly environment. Email juniochoirstmarys@gmail.com for more info :)