By Revd Vanessa Conant, Rector of St Mary’s and the Parish of Walthamstow

Did you know that we began Vespers ten years ago?

We were hearing from so many people in our community that they were longing for places of peace and stillness and for somewhere to come when life or the world felt overwhelming.

These conversations made us reflect on the rich tradition of Christian contemplation and we began to think and pray about how we could respond to the hopes and fears that people were expressing.

In 2016, Vespers began. It has changed over the years but has nearly always been 40 minutes of poetry, music, stillness and reflective practice, deeply informed by Christian tradition.

It has been a safe, welcoming and open space for many people over the years. Committed to openness and inclusion, Vespers has been a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of faith background. In fact, it has often been a place for people who wouldn’t describe themselves as Christian to explore contemplation. For others, it has been a home for those who are looking to grow in faith.

For many of us, it has been – and continues to be – a healing, nurturing and gentle place of worship and community.

Vespers returns tomorrow – Wednesday 3rd June at 7.30pm in St Mary’s. Natalie Burwell, who co-leads Vespers, will guide us through the evening and there is always the invitation to stay for a short service of communion afterwards.

You are warmly invited to join us and you are always welcome to bring friends.

With love,

Vanessa