Savoury Saturday Saturday 13th July !0.00 - 12 noon Sausage rolls, cheese scones and other savoury delights! Freshly brewed coffee and cake. We look forward to welcoming you. All proceeds to the...
St Mary’s Coffee Morning
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News & Information
From Coddenham-Parish.uk
Archive/Category: Deborah Mcdonnell
From The Rectory – Watch and Pray
The day had dawned brightly but with storms forecast for later, and so it proved to be. Driving home in the evening, I was treated to an ever changing skycap; blue sky and white clouds give way to...
A Summer Serenade Concert at St Mary’s
A Summer Serenade Concert, featuring Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir and The Songbirds Join us for an evening of songs from swing, pop, rock, musical theatre and more.... St Mary's Church,...
From The Rectory – The Great Congregation
As our time on Iona drew to a close, we gathered for the Eucharist one last time. From many parts of the Christian family, we shared the common cup; a symbol of our unity and shared roots. Over...
Coddenham Open Gardens and Scarecrows
Open Gardens and Scarecrows - Sunday 30th June 11.00am - 4.00pm 18 amazing gardens will be open to the public and 14 sporting scarecrows will be making appearances around the village. Teas, coffees...
What’s On at The Country Club This Weekend?
The Halfway to Christmas Summer Solstice Party! Saturday 29th June 3pm - 10pm A great chance to wear your Christmas jumper with your shorts and flip flops!!!! Halfway to Christmas Beer Festival...
From The Rectory
From the Rectory, 30 June 2024 The Rector has been on retreat, and looks forward to seeing you at the Holy Communion service at Stonham Parva on Sunday 30 June.
From The Rectory
The Rector is on retreat. The Notice Sheet for 23rd June can be found here Evening Prayer at St Mary's on 23rd June at 6.30pm.
From The Rectory – Journey
This week we are off to Iona and after all that I have heard from last year’s Pilgrims, I am very much looking forward to spending a week on the island. We are going by train and it will take us 2...
From The Rectory – Boxes, Boxes
The Rectory is filling with boxes: boxes to move to our new home, boxes for charity, boxes for the tip. Some boxes still show their original contents, others bear testimony to many moves, some are...
Coddenham Community Shop Celebrates Volunteers Week – 3rd – 9th June
Volunteers Week - 3rd - 9th June - celebrates all those who volunteer in their communities. The staff and committee at Coddenham Community Shop would like to say a huge 'THANK YOU' to all the...
St Mary’s D Day Coffee Morning
Saturday 8th June 10.00m - 12 noon To commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the D Day landings this months Coffee Morning will have a wartime theme. There will be a History Club display of wartime...
Hemingstone Village Fete
Hemingstone Village Fete in aid of St Gregory's Church Saturday 1st June 12-4pm Lunches, Refreshments, Tombola. Raffle, Games and more! Hemingstone Dog Show - Enter by 1pm, judging at 2pm
From The Rectory – Rain
For a moment it looked like rain once more. The sky darkened, the trees danced in the wind, the cars were covered in fresh water droplets; now the sun has returned. One minute sun, the next rain,...
Bank Holiday Weekend at The Country Club
Saturday 25th May Karaoke Night starting at 7pm. Grab a Burger at The Club - 5pm - 8pm
Bank Holiday Opening at the Community Shop
This weekend's opening hours Saturday 25th May - 8.00am - 4.00pm Sunday 26th May CLOSED Bank Holiday Monday - 10.00am - 2.00pm Did you know you can also keep up to date with news from the Community...
From The Rectory – Do This in Remembrance of Me
Do this in remembrance of me. Remembering is important but how good is your memory? Some things (like riding a bike or using a knife and fork) become so deeply ingrained by use that we just do them...
From the Rectory – Hallowed Rest
The day thou gavest Lord is ended; the darkness falls at thy behest; to thee our morning hymns ascended, thy praise shall sanctify our rest. Today the sun has shone, adding real warmth to the air. ...
St Mary’s Coffee Morning and Plant Sale
St Mary's Coffee Morning and Plant Sale Saturday 11th May 10.00am- 12 noon Freshly brewed coffee, homemade cakes and lots of plants. All proceeds to the Church Fabric Fund
May at Coddenham Country Club
Saturday 11th May - The Mobile Pizza Co. will be parking in the front car park from 6 - 8 pm. Take away or join us to eat in. Saturday 25th May - Karaoke Night from 7pm. Grab a Burger will be in...
Bank Holiday Opening at Coddenham Community Shop
The Community Shop will be open from 10.00am until 2.00pm on Bank Holiday Monday - 6th May. Why not drop in for coffee and cake, stock up for a picnic or barbecue or enjoy an award winning Alder...
From The Rectory – Behold I Do A New Thing
FROM THE RECTORY. - BEHOLD I DO A NEW THING[1] In August I will bring to a close almost 50 years of paid employment. Much though I am looking forward to the next stage of my life, such a...
From The Rectory – It Won’t All Fit
It won’t all fit! The simple fact is that the home we will soon be moving to is smaller than the Rectory; things have to go. Each move generates more new stuff, but we keep the old just in case....
Clothes Swap!
Refresh your wardrobe whilst helping the environment and St Mary's Church! Come along to the Clothes swap at The Coddenham Centre on Friday 26th April. Bring along up to 5 items of clothing and 2...
St Mary’s Annual Parochial Church Meeting – 23rd April
The Annual Parochial Church Meeting for St Mary's Church is open to all parishioners and is an opportunity to find out about church activities including the fundraising campaign for repairs to the...
From The Rectory – The Twelve Commandments
From The Rectory - The Twelve Commandments?[1] Freed from slavery in Egypt, as the Israelites set out for the Promised Land, they quickly discovered that freedom comes at a price. As slaves the...
St Mary’s Coffee Morning
The April Coffee Morning at St Mary's is on Saturday 13th April 10.00 - 12 noon. Homemade cakes, coffee and Hot Cross Buns - a bit late for Easter but it's never really too late to enjoy one! Easter...
From the Rectory – And Did Those Feet ………….
And did those feet, in ancient times, walk upon England’s mountains green. So begins William Blake’s ‘Jerusalem’. Last week, our feet walked, not on mountains, they are in short supply around here,...
From the Rectory – Be Prepared
The sky is grey, but for how long? This morning has seen blue sky and sunshine drift seamlessly into grey and back on a recurring loop. ‘Variable’ could be the best weather description. It is...
Easter at St Mary’s
The congregation at St Mary's celebrated Easter Day with a Communion Service. St. Mary's church has been beautifully decorated for Easter by volunteer florists with some spectacular flower...
From The Rectory – Silence
In the beginning was the Word. All things were made by him and without him nothing was made[1]. Silent night, Holy night[2]; How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given[3]. Have you...
Easter Services at St Mary’s
All are welcome to join our services as we celebrate Easter. Friday 29th March Good Friday - walk from St Gregory's, Hemingstone, starting at 11.00am to join an outdoor service at 12 midday...
Easter at Coddenham Country Club
Easter Quiz - Saturday 30th March. Register teams from 7.45pm. £1.50 per person. Cash prizes for winners. Friday 29th March - Good Friday Ploughman's Lunch at 12 noon.
Crowfield Easter Egg Hunt
Easter Egg Hunt Monday 1st April 10am at Crowfield Church.
Easter Treasure Hunt at St Mary’s
Follow the clues to find the Easter treasure whilst enjoying a bacon buttie or slice of cake at the Coffee Morning on Saturday 23rd March. 10.00am- 12 noon. Fun for all the family, just £5 per...
From the Rectory – LISTEN
By the time you read this, Mary and I will be homeward bound after a few days on the coast. Coastal paths are seldom tidy; littered as they are with everything from discarded string, through the...
Full Opening Hours are Back at Coddenham Community Shop
The Community Shop Committee and volunteers are pleased to announce that from Monday 18th March normal opening hours will be resumed. The Committee have recruited two new Shop Supervisors, Hannah...
A Reflection For Mothering Sunday – Four Years On
This child is set for the fall, and rising again, of many in Israel. Lk 2: 34 It had been a strange week. A short break in a favourite haunt, overshadowed by a gloomy uncertainty. We drove home as...
Mother’s Day at Coddenham Community Shop
Mother's Day is this Sunday, 10th March, get prepared at the Community Shop. Lots of lovely gift ideas - chocolates, wine, flowers, jewellery, ceramics and don't forget your cards.
Mothering Sunday at St Mary’s Church
You are invited to join us in a celebration of Motherhood and the Gift of Family at our Mothering Sunday Worship for all at St Mary's, Coddenham on Sunday 10th March at 11.00am. We welcome everyone...
St Mary’s Coffee Mornings are Back!
Coffee Mornings at St Mary's make a welcome return on Saturday 23rd March from 10-12 noon. This Coffee Morning features bacon butties, home made cakes and freshly brewed coffee. Fair Trade and...
From The Rectory – Marks of Faith
Regular readers of this reflection will know that I recently had a short stay in hospital. The journey began late on Ash Wednesday and led, inexorably, through A&E to hospital admission. During...
Coddenham Community Shop is ‘5 Star’
Following a recent unannounced inspection, The Community Shop has, once again, retained its 5 Star Food Hygiene rating. The inspector was impressed by the systems we have in place to ensure we meet...
From The Rectory – A Timely Reminder
Looking out from the 6th floor of Ipswich hospital, I was struck by how straight the horizon was. Below me lay the Ipswich suburbs and beyond the horizon was punctuated by the occasional man-made...
Congratulations to Coddenham’s Amazing Artists
The Community Shop recently ran a children's art competition linked to the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch. Some amazing bird pictures were entered and were judged by an artist who specialises in bird...
Fun February Quiz
Fun February Quiz Friday 23rd February at The Coddenham Centre Teams of up to 6. Bat and raffle. Tickets £6 per person, from Coddenham Community Shop, includes hot supper. Supper at 7pm, quiz...
What is a ‘quarry’?
A quarry? Somewhere where stone is mined? An animal pursued by a hunter? Correct, but did you know that a quarry is also a diamond-shaped pane of glass used in lattice windows? From the 16th...
From the Rectory – The Written Word
In the beginning was The Word. Recently I heard a radio commentator reflecting on the growing use of electronically typed and transmitted words and the adverse effect this was having on the practice...
A Busy Week at Coddenham Community Shop!
We are preparing for a busy week next week - Pancake Day on Tuesday 13th, Valentine's Day on Wednesday 14th and Chinese New Year starts on Saturday 10th! We have everything in stock for pancake...
From the Rectory – Mud On The Road
Turning off the main road and heading up the hill I could see in the field ahead a strange looking machine. Between the machine and the road lay a long pile of sugar beet; it’s harvest time again....
Valentine’s Day at Coddenham Community Shop
Lots of lovely gift ideas for Valentine's Day - 14th February - at Coddenham Community Shop. Don't forget to order your Valentine's cupcakes made by one of our fabulous local bakers.
From the Rectory – In the beginning was the Word
The opening words of St John’s Gospel; words made familiar more than anywhere else, as the climax of countless carol services. Christmas is done for another year. Last Sunday we marked the...
Thank You Coddenham
Many thanks to all those who supported the launch of the St Mary's Church appeal on Saturday. The talk by Roy Tricker, the exhibition by the History Club and the opportunity to see Church artefacts...
New Volunteering Opportunities with the Community Shop
CAN YOU HELP OUR COMMUNITY SHOP?! As most of you know, our Manager, Bliss, has recently left us for new opportunities. Although this presents some challenges for the shop in the short term, it is...
From the Rectory – The Wind Blows
The wind blows where it chooses, you hear the sound of it, you do not know where it comes from or goes. The wind is certainly doing a lot of blowing of late. Last night (Sunday) it rattled around...
St Mary’s, a Thousand Years of Coddenham History
‘St Mary’s, a Thousand Years of Coddenham History’, Saturday 27th January 2024 This talk by Roy Tricker, Church Historian, will launch the appeal for funds of £60,000 for the repairs required at St...
Evensong for Candlemas at St Mary’s
Our beautiful candlelit service of Choral Evensong on Sunday 28th January at 4.00 pm celebrates Candlemas, when we think of Christ as the light of the world. Music will be led by the Benefice Choir.
Get Ready for the BIg Garden Birdwatch at Coddenham Community Shop
RSPB Garden Birdwatch 26-28 January 2024 The Community Shop has everything you need for the Birdwatch - sunflower seeds, niger seeds, fatballs, peanuts, mixed seeds etc. Collect an identification...
From the Rectory – A Cup Of Coffee
The winter sun shines through the trees, bathing everything it touches in a mellow golden light. From the kitchen wafts the aroma of fresh coffee. A clock ticks, rhythmically marking the steady...
Well Done Coddenham Carol Singers
Gabrielle and some of the regular carol singers attended a 'Thank You' event at St Elizabeth Hospice on Tuesday afternoon. The event was held to thank corporate and local fundraisers and included a...
St Mary’s Bells on Radio 4
The church bells of St. Mary's Coddenham featured on the Radio 4 Bells on Sunday programme at 05.43 on 14th January. The recording is an extract from a quarter peal of Single Oxford Bob Triples...
From The Rectory – Creation
In recent times I have returned to a hobby of my youth, building model aircraft from kits. My skills are a little rusty but improving with practice and I now have a growing collection. Even a small...
What’s Happening at Coddenham Country Club?
Answer: There's lots happening at The Country Club! January Saturday 20th January - Karaoke Night. 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. Monday 22nd January - Annual General Meeting 7.30 p.m. February Thursday 1st...
Coddenham Community Shop – We Are Hiring!
We Are Hiring! Shop Supervisor – Part-time Coddenham’s award winning Community Shop is a lively, friendly place to work. Owned and managed by the community for the benefit of the community, our...
Thank You Coddenham
Many thanks to all those involved in the carol singing on 20th December .....singers, Haysel House for the festive hospitality and all those who donated so generously. We raised a fantastic £360 for...
From the Rectory – The Journey
It’s late morning, it’s raining (again) and so gloomy that I need the study light on. How different from yesterday when the sun shone and we were able to enjoy a brisk, winter walk. Then all was...
From The Rectory – the Waiting is Over
The waiting is over. Christmas Day has been and gone; the gifts opened, the dinner cooked and eaten. Sat supping a quiet cuppa on Christmas Eve, I heard, yet again, the complaint that waiting is...
Happy Christmas from St Mary’s
The congregation at St Mary's Church would like to wish everyone a very happy and peaceful Christmas. All are welcome at our Christmas services. The Crib service is at 4.00pm on Christmas Eve and...
Christmas Crib Service at St Mary’s
Join the congregation on Christmas Eve at 4pm as we recreate the Christmas story and build our nativity scene. Children can make a Christmas lantern to celebrate the birth of Jesus - Light of the...
Winter Opening Times at Coddenham Community Shop
CODDENHAM COMMUNITY SHOP WINTER OPENING HOURS After four very successful years our Manager, Bliss, is moving on to new opportunities after Christmas. We would like to say thank you for all she has...
Last Minute Christmas Gifts at Coddenham Community Shop
Still looking for a gift for someone special? Lots of goodies still available at the Community Shop. New in, lovely plants - cyclamen and hyacinths from Katie's Garden. Candles and diffusers form...
From the Rectory – Christmas Light
The rain had stopped, for the moment at least, but it remained a dark night; no stars or moonlight reached through the cloud. As she drove carefully along the country lanes, her headlights picked...
Coddenham Village Carol Singing
Village Carol Singing - Wednesday 20th December 6.30pm It's time for the traditional Coddenham Carol Singing! Join us to walk through the village singing carols as we go; final carols at Haysel...
Carol Service at St Mary’s
All are welcome at the St Mary's Carol Service at 4pm on Sunday 17th December. Featuring the Benefice Choir. Followed by festive refreshments.
Christmas Coffee Morning at St Mary’s
Christmas Coffee Morning Saturday 9th December 10.00- 12 noon Festive Fayre, mulled wine and coffee with homemade cakes Win with our mega Christmas Tombola and Guess the name of our 'lovely'...
From the Rectory – Zechariah’s Vision
Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel. The opening words of the morning canticle, the Benedictus. It is a regular feature of Morning Prayer but have you ever wondered where it came from or why?...
Christmas Opening at Coddenham Community Shop
We look forward to welcoming our customers for all their Christmas and New Year shopping over the festive period. Opening times as follows Saturday 23rd December - 8am - 4pm Sunday 24th December -...
Christmas Services at St Mary’s
Celebrate Christmas at St Mary’s Coddenham CAROL SERVICE with the Benefice Choir Sunday 17th December at 4pm Followed by festive refreshments. CHRISTMAS EVE at 4pm Crib Service for all the family...
Even More Christmas Gifts at Coddenham Community Shop
Lots of lovely gift ideas at Coddenham Community Shop. Wooden decorations, boxes and battery tea light lanterns made in Coddenham. Nature themed ceramics by Leon and Jenny Petterson. Create your...
From The Rectory – In The Beginning Was The Word
And so, as darkness falls, and with it yet more rain, the old year draws to a close. This Sunday, the first in Advent, is the beginning of the church’s year; only 25 days until Christmas. Now is a...
From the Rectory – Stir Up
Christmas is coming and preparations have begun. Today is Stir-Up Sunday, the day to stir-up the Christmas pudding mix. This puzzled me for many years. Christmas puddings need time to mature if...
Gardemau News
Many villagers will know that the Gardemau Church Charity (GCC) has applied for Outline Planning Permission (OPP) for its plot of land behind the old Lock Up at the junction of School Rd and...
Christmas Gifts at Coddenham Community Shop
Looking for a special Christmas gift for a loved one? Look no further! Beautiful home fragrance gifts from NOOR. Diffusers, room spray and candles. Lots of other locally made gifts in the shop -...
Christmas in Gosbeck
Our neighbours in Gosbeck have 2 fun events to help you celebrate Christmas.
From the Rectory – Christmas in November
Christmas gets earlier each year - a common complaint. Barely has summer finished and the Christmas adverts start appearing. Shop early, they say; well there’s early and early. It always brings a...
Bronze Eco Church Award for St Mary’s
The Parochial Church Council have been looking at the environmental impact of St Mary's and are pleased to announce that St Mary's has been awarfed the Bronze Eco Church Award by the A ROCHA UK...
Christmas at Coddenham Community Shop
The team at the Community Shop are getting ready for Christmas! You can order all your Christmas essentials - Turnbull's amazing Turkeys and chickens, pigs in blankets, a wide range of other meats,...
St Mary’s Coffee Morning
Coffee Morning this Saturday 18th November 10.00- 12 noon. Enjoy a bacon buttie while you shop for cards, bows and wrap. Get Christmas ready! Freshly brewed coffee and homemade cakes also...
From The Rectory – Remember
The sun shines, my study is bathed in light and, for a moment at least, this is a place of peace. Peace, for many, is a rare pleasure as the world is becoming increasingly fractious once more....
Co Op Brass Band Christmas Concert at St Mary’s
The East Of England Co Op Band's popular Christmas Concert returns to St Mary's, Coddenham on Sunday 3rd December at 2.30pm. Tickets on sale NOW from Coddenham Community Shop (£12 cash only) or...
Poppy Appeal 2023
Please support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal by buying a poppy. Collection tins and poppies are available at The Community Shop and The Coddenham Centre. There will be a service of...
From The Rectory – Memories
And so to Thetford Forest for a day out. Monday promised to be the best day of the week, and so it proved. Time with old friends, a walk in the forest and a good lunch. Climbing out of our car...
From The Rectory – Storms
It’s a beautiful Sunday morning; blue sky, bright sun and a gentle breeze. From my study window I can see nothing to point to the chaos of two days ago. My Friday began quite normally, until I...
Concert at St Mary’s Saturday 28th October
Concert at St Mary's Church Saturday 28th October at 7.00pm A great chance to hear some of our local musicians - Ian Burton (Trombone) and Ian Galbraith (Organ) alongside Anna Phillips playing the...
Halloween at Coddenham Community Shop
Get Spooky for Halloween with goodies from the Community Shop. Pumpkins for carving, bags of sweets for 'Trick or Treat', Halloween cake bars etc.
From The Rectory – A Change In The Weather
This morning I awoke to see frost on neighbouring roofs; the first of the season. Out come the winter clothes once more and this time I don’t expect to put them away again for many months. Soon,...
St Mary’s Coffee Morning
St Mary's October Coffee Morning - Preserves Day Saturday 14th October 10.00am - 12 noon. Freshly brewed coffee and homemade cakes. Delicious preserves - Jams, Marmalades and Chutney for sale....
The Golden Evening Brightens In The West
We have been enjoying some distinctly unseasonable weather and with it there have indeed been some gloriously golden evenings. I suspect that the colour of the sky has something to do with the...
From The Rectory – Harvest
All is safely gathered in, ere the winter storm begin which is just as well because, as I begin this reflection we are treated to a short, sharp thunder storm. It’s Harvest Festival Season; the...
Let There Be ‘Energy Efficient’ Light!
All the lighting at Coddenham Community Shop has now been replaced with LED lighting thanks to a generous grant from our district councillor's Locality Fund. The new lighting will reduce the Shop's...
From The Rectory – The Wind Blows Where It Chooses
The Wind blows where it chooses, you hear the sound of it but do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit. Jn 3:8 ‘I suppose your letter this...
From the Rectory – ‘Sometimes I sits and thinks, sometimes I just sits’, (Winnie the Pooh)
Sometimes I sits and thinks, sometimes I just sits, (Winnie the Pooh) The first coffee of the morning is an opportunity to sit and read before tackling the day’s tasks. That’s the theory but it...
Harvest Flower Festival at St Gregory’s, Hemingstone
Harvest Flower Festival - 'An English Country Garden' at St Gregory's Church, Hemingstone Saturday 30th September and Sunday 1st October 11am - 4pm Refreshments, Raffle, Lunches and more in The Hut....
St Mary’s Flower Festival – ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’
St Mary's Flower Festival and Harvest Festival - Saturday 16th September and Sunday 17th September. Saturday 16th - 10.00am - 5.00pm Sunday 17th - 10.00am - 4.00pm The Church will be decorated...
Raedwald Ensemble Concert at St Mary’s
Saturday 28th October at 7.00pm at St Mary's Church Coddenham. The Raedwald Ensemble Concert features Anna Phillips playing the harp, Ian Galbraith, St Mary's own brilliant organist and the Raedwald...
From The Rectory – Wonderfully Made
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you and before you were born I consecrated you. (Jeremiah 1:5). In a week that began with natural disasters and great loss of life, I find myself, once again,...
Early Closing at Coddenham Community Shop
Unfortunately, due to staff illness, the Community Shop will close at 11.30am on Friday 8th September. Many apologies for any inconvenience caused.
From The Rectory – The Sign of Peace
Last week I reflected on Jesus’ reaction to the demand for a sign of his authority. (Matthew 16). Why should we believe you?’ To the establishment of his day, Jesus was an outsider with no...
Charity Bingo Night at The Coddenham Centre
A fun event for a great cause - Cancer Research - BINGO! Get your tickets form the Community Shop - let's make it a 'full house'! Doors open 7.30. Cash bar.
St Mary’s Coffee Morning
Savoury Saturday! Lots of lovely savoury bakes at this month's Coffee Morning on Saturday 3rd September at St Mary's 10am - 12 noon. Why not purchase some tasty treats to enjoy later at the...
From The Rectory – Apres Moi Le Deluge
And God said to Noah Never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth (Gen 9:11). God’s promise notwithstanding, this last weekend it rained, heavily. Standing under an awning at the...
Community Shop Bank Holiday Opening
Coddenham Community Shop will be open on Bank Holiday Monday - 28th August - from 10am until 2pm for your Bank Holiday shopping or why not call in a coffee and cake?
Crowfield Flower Festival – 26th – 28th August
All Saints Church, Crowfield is hosting it's annual Flower Festival this weekend. The Church will be open from Saturday August 26th to Monday 28th from 10.30am to 5pm each day. The Church will be...
From The Rectory – God Waits
The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)...
Thank You Coddenham
I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came to honour Greg’s memory and celebrate his life on Wednesday 9th August. I was truly touched to see so many friends from the village in the...
Another Coddenham Centenary Celebration
All are welcome to a Garden Party on Saturday 19th August 3pm - 5pm to celebrate the centenary of the Phillips family owning the property called St Mary's in Church Road. The current owner, Neil...
From The Rectory – In The Silence
The only thing necessary for evil to flourish, is for good men to do nothing. Elijah is locked in a struggle with Queen Jezebel; God’s word or the beliefs and values that Jezebel promotes. It is a...
Coffee Morning at St Mary’s
The August Coffee Morning takes place on Saturday 12th August from 10.00am -12 noon. Sitting in the sun, in the beautiful Church grounds, catch up with old friends and make some new ones! Freshly...
Early Closure at Coddenham Community Shop
The Community Shop will be closing early on Wednesday 9th August. Opening hours will be 8.00am - 11.30am Usual hours will resume on Thursday 10th August. Many apologies for any inconvenience...
From The Rectory – If Only Our Possessions Could Talk
If only our possessions could talk. The Mexican rests, Mary prays and Francis holds out his hands to welcome. Summer rains gently fall. Lunch over and little chance of an afternoon walk, the...
From The Rectory – Pilgrimage
It’s good to be home. Holidays are great; it is good to get away, but eventually the novelty wears off and home calls. Home is where the heart is; but where is the heart? Two months ago, a number...
Centenary Celebrations at Coddenham Community Shop
Help us celebrate 100 years of Gudgin's ownership of the Shop. The Community Shop manager, committee and volunteers are thrilled to be able to join in the Centenary celebrations with Roy and Ann....
From The Rectory – Diversions
‘Road Closed Ahead, Follow Diversion’; currently one of the most common of all local roadsigns. The big yellow guessing game has begun. You know the sign wasn’t there when you went out, but now you...
From the Rectory – Instructions
In the peace and quiet of an early morning coffee break, I’m staring out of the window when one word catches my eye; ‘OUTSIDE’. It is a statement of the obvious, the word is embossed on my car’s...
From The Rectory – Trivia
Do you remember ‘Trivial Pursuit’; that once popular board game now, I suspect, condemned to attics and other dark and dusty corners across the land? For a season or so there was, if not quite fame...
Coffee Morning at St Mary’s
July's Coffee Morning will take place on Saturday 8th July 10.00am -12 noon. There will be a selection of greetings cards, wrapping paper and bows available to purchase. Freshly brewed coffee and...
Wildflowers Take Over at St Mary’s
The churchyard at St Mary's has been taken over by wildflowers! The present sunny weather has encouraged several species to flower - orchids, scabious and ox eye daisies are out in abundance. Why...
From The Rectory – The Earth Is The Lord’s
Regular readers will know I have been taking a break. While Mary and I were away, we left the Rectory in the hands of some of our neighbours (From the Rectory 18th June). I know that they took...
From the Rectory – Still Resting
The Rector has taken to heart the Mexican style of resting. Rev Philip Payne The Notice Sheet for 25th June can be found here Trinity 3
Welcome to Coddenham
Have you recently moved into Coddenham? Lots of houses in the village have been displaying 'Sold' signs recently, whilst we are sorry to see villagers leave, we are also keen to welcome newcomers....
From The Rectory – Resting
To see Rev. Philip's message for this week click on the link below. The Notice Sheet for 17th June can be found here 230618 From the Rectory - Resting
From The Rectory – The Body of Christ
How solid is your faith? I don’t mean how committed and able to withstand setbacks. Instead, I ask how 3-dimensional, physical or concrete? Thursday is Corpus Christi (The Body of Christ) or, to...
St Mary’s Coffee Morning
June Coffee Morning and Plant Sale Saturday 10th June 10.00 - 12 noon at St Mary's Church. Enjoy freshly brewed Fairtrade coffee and home made cakes whilst choosing some new plants for your garden....
Father’s Day at Coddenham Community Shop
Father's Day 18th June 2023 The Community Shop has a great range of Father's Day cards and some great gift ideas - books by local authors, wines and spirits and delicious chocolates.
Temporary Changes to Community Shop Opening Times
From The Rectory – They that wait upon the Lord
My time in the gym was over for the day and bits of me ached in ways they hadn’t for some time. The new routine was more challenging than I had expected. Nothing for it, time to sit down and enjoy...
From The Rectory – God Created a Garden
As the day draws to a close, the land is bathed in golden sunlight, the wind has dropped, the branches are still, birds and insects fill the air enjoying the evening warmth. It is also a perfect...
Temporary Change to Opening Hours at Community Shop
Unfortunately, due to staff shortages, the shop will be open form 8am - 11am this Saturday - 20th May. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
From The Rectory – Service
Teach us good Lord, to serve thee as thou deservest[1] …. The bunting is packed away, tourists and well-wishers go home, uniforms dry out; life goes on. There is work to do and I’m sure that on...
St Mary’s Coffee Morning Celebrates the Coronation
The Coronation celebrations continue at St Mary's on Saturday 13th May with a Coronation Coffee Morning from 10 - 12 noon. Come and enjoy cakes from around the Kingdom - North, East, South and West...
From the Rectory – Trust
Do not let your hearts be troubled (Jn 14:1). In this world you will have trouble, …. I have overcome the world. (Jn 16:33). Troubled hearts we seem to have a plenty. Every news bulletin I...
Celebrate the King’s Coronation at St Mary’s
There will be a commemorative service of celebration for the coronation of King Charles III at St Mary's, Coddenham at 9.30am on Sunday 7th May. All welcome.
Coronation Opening Hours at Coddenham Community Shop
Coronation Weekend Opening Hours The Shop will be open on Saturday 6th May 8am - 2pm and on Monday 8th May 10am - 2pm Lots of coronation goodies available and, from 3rd May, crown biscuits and...
From The Rectory – Counterfeit or True?
On holiday in Florence many years ago, we were accosted by street traders selling fake fashion bags and accessories. Counterfeiting is a form of theft, robbing legitimate businesses, unwitting...
Bank Holiday Opening at Coddenham Community Shop
The Community Shop will be open on Monday 1st May from 10am until 2pm. Why not pop in for a Bank Holiday treat? Coffee and Cake or delicious Alder Tree ice cream?
From the Rectory – In the Ordinary
Easter Day, the Day of Resurrection, a day of celebration. The rising sun may have hidden behind hazy cloud, but I, and many others, greeted the dawn outside with shouts of praise; Alleluia, He is...
Revised Opening at Coddenham Community Shop
Unfortunately, due to staff shortage, the Community Shop will close at 2.30pm on Tuesday 11th April. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
From the Rectory – Night Falls on Calvary
At last, the sun is shining, and more is expected over the next few days. I am writing this on Palm Sunday and this afternoon Mary and I walked the fields near the Rectory. Everywhere, sodden...
Amended Easter Opening Hours at Coddenham Community Shop
Unfortunately, due to ongoing staff sickness, the Shop opening hours for Easter have had to be altered from those planned and previously advertised. The hours will now be as follows - Good Friday -...
St Mary’s Coffee Morning
Celebrate Easter at the St Mary's Coffee Morning. Homemade cakes and freshly made coffee with seasonal extra - warm Hot Cross buns. Saturday 8th April 10.00 - 12 noon. Easter crafts for children All...
Temporary Change to Opening Times at Coddenham Community Shop
Unfortunately, due to staff sickness, the Community Shop will close early at 2.30 on Thursday 6th April. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Easter at Coddenham Country Club
Easter events - Bank Holiday Mini Beer Festival Opening times and events. Good Friday - Ploughman's Lunch 12 noon, remaining open until 11pm Easter Saturday open 2pm until 11pm The Mobile Pizza Co...
Easter Opening Times at Coddenham Community Shop
The shop will be open over Easter for lots of Easter goodies as well as the usual wide range of goods. Easter cards, hot cross buns, easter eggs and lots more! Good Friday 8.00am - 5.00pm...
Celebrate Easter at St Mary’s
All are welcome to join our Easter services. Palm Sunday - 2nd April - meet at St Mary's at 10.00am to walk to Hemingstone accompanied by a donkey! Maundy Thursday - 6th April - Holy Communion at...
From the Rectory – On the Beach
This week, although Holy Week is almost upon us, I remain on the beach. The tide has receded, the water’s edge is quite a walk, the sand beneath my feet feels firm. Yet already the surface is...
From The Rectory – ‘Son of man, can these bones live?’ (Ezekiel 37:3)
Son of man, can these bones live? (Ezekiel 37:3) This week we are enjoying a few days on the North Norfolk coast: a border land where sea, land and sky merge. Along the shoreline at low tide, acres...
Temporary Change to Community Shop Opening Hours Wednesday 29th March
Unfortunately, due to staff illness the Community Shop will close at 2.30pm on Wednesday 29th March. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
From The Rectory – The Still Small Voice
What are you doing here Elijah? asked God (1 Kings19: 9). Did it sound like a dumb question? Elijah had just won a spectacular battle with the Priests of Baal (1 Kings 18), yet barely had the dust...
Mother’s Day at Coddenham Community Shop
Mother's Day 2023 Sunday 19th March Get ready to spoil your Mum with lovely cards and gifts from Coddenham Community Shop. Cupcakes and biscuits from Wheaten Mill will be available form 15th March....
Mothering Sunday at St Mary’s Church
You are invited to join us in a celebration of Motherhood and the Gift of Family at our Mothering Sunday Worship For All at St Mary’s, Coddenham, on Sunday 19th March at 10.00am We welcome everyone...
From the Rectory – Keep Alert
Morning light crept round the bedroom curtain. Time to stir; an unusual light this morning; more like the white of a full moon on a crisp winter night. Through the frosted glass, all looked white...
Sustainable Floristry Workshop
Sustainable Church Flower Workshop The oasis currently used in floral displays is not environmentally friendly as it doesn't biodegrade and can't be recycled. Find out how to use alternatives to...
Coffee Morning at St Mary’s Saturday 11th March
Coffee Mornings are back! Saturday 11th March from 10.00am - 12 noon Join us to support Fair Trade fortnight. Home made cakes, fresh coffee. Fair Trade stall for food and gifts.
From The Rectory – Be Prepared
Last Sunday dawned bright and sunny with a blue sky promising a good day. In the garden, snowdrops and daffodils herald Spring. However, I quickly discovered that the air was not as Spring-like as...
High Street Road Closure Update
The emergency road closure in the High Street today was due to a sudden water leak on the pavement. The repair has now been carried out but reinstatement is still required. Anglian Water will carry...
From The Rectory – Forgiven
Once again, we enter Lent, a season of preparation. Traditionally a time of abstinence, the 40 days of Lent will lead us to Holy Week and Easter; the cross and resurrection, the heart of our faith....
From The Rectory – Mountain Revelations
This week we are treated to not just one but 2 mountain top experiences. Matthew recounts how Jesus took Peter, James and John, the inner three, up a mountain where they observed his appearance...
Valentine’s Day at Coddenham Community Shop
Beautiful bouquets for your loved one available from Saturday 11th ready for Valentine's Day gifting. Tulip bunches just £6.50, large alstroemeria bouquets £10. Cards, chocolates, wine and other...
From the Rectory – Sufficient unto the Day
As the evening drew on, I stood looking out across the fields. It has been a bright, if cool day, and I was enjoying a moment of solitude before the evening office. We live in challenging times; it...
From The Rectory – Cross
Looking out of my study window I see one word, ‘cross’. It’s written on the side of my FIAT Panda. It’s on the inside too, part of what the marketing department would call styling. It is, I...
Valentine’s Day at Coddenham Community Shop
Now in stock - a wide range of cards and gifts for your loved one on Valentine's Day (February 14th). Flowers, cards, chocolates, jewellery etc. Why not order some...
From The Rectory – Love Is
One of the most popular bible readings for a wedding begins Love is. Taken from St Paul’s first letter to Corinth; (1 Corinthians 13) love is paints an uplifting picture that promotes positive...
RSPB Garden Birdwatch 27th-29th January 2023
It's that time of year again - time to count the birds! The Community Shop has everything you need to help the RSPB find out how many wild birds there are so that they can monitor the bird...
From the Rectory – What a Beautiful Morning
O what a beautiful morning; the sun shines and the frost glistens. If only briefly, this morning I can look out onto a winter wonderland. There is, I am sure, much more winter to come. This...
From The Rectory – Just Talking
The holidays are over, offices are open once more, back to work. A man left home on family business. It was a challenging job, but important. He made friends on the way, built a team; teaching...
Community Shop Opening Hours Update
Unfortunately, due to ongoing staff illness, the Community Shop will operate reduced opening hours on Saturday 14th January. The shop will be open from 9.00am until 3.00pm. Apologies for any...
Country Club Winter Opening Hours
New Winter opening hours. Monday 6pm - 9pm Thursday 6pm - 9pm Friday 6pm - 11pm Saturday 3pm - 7pm Sunday 3pm - 7pm We look forward to seeing you.
From The Rectory – Light
Night falls. Now, although the sun set half an hour ago, its lingering rays still illumine the evening sky. Soon it will be dark but for a little while, the view from my study window remains one of...
Celebrate New Year at Coddenham Country Club
The Club will be open from 6pm. Join us to welcome 2023.
From The Rectory – In the Beginning
In the beginning was the Word. (John 1:1). In case we missed it in all the nativity detail, the opening words of John’s gospel remind us that we are in the presence of God. Genesis tells us that...
Community Shop Opening Hours Update
Unfortunately due to continuing staff illness the shop will be open for reduced hours tomorrow, Thursday 29th December. Opening hours will be 8am - 2pm. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Community Shop Closure
Unfortunately, due to extensive staff sickness, the Community Shop will be closed on Wednesday 28th December. We will be open on Thursday 29th December as usual. Many aplologies for any...
Crib and Christingle Service at St Mary’s
Saturday 24th December at 4.00pm Crib and Christingle service. Celebrating the birth of Jesus, the light of the world. All welcome to help to assemble the stable scene and make a Christingle.
Thank You Coddenham
Many thanks to everyone who participated in the carol singing in the village on Tuesday evening. Particular thanks to Ian and his 4 colleagues from the Co Op Brass Band who played so...
Christmas Greetings from The Rectory
No 'From the Rectory' this week, instead a photo to remind us of the light of the Lord, and to wish you all a very good Christmas and festive season. Rev’d Philip Payne The light shines in the...
Coddenham Village Carol Singing
Everyone is welcome to join in our village carol singing on Tuesday 20th December starting at the Community Shop at 6.30pm. Singing on as many doorsteps as possible, all ages and abilities welcome!...
Let All The Earth Be Still
Tic, toc, tic, toc; with dull, rhythmic certainty the study clock beats the passing of time. Outside, a cold, arctic blast has finally driven away the last vestiges of our hot summer. Winter has...
Festive Coffee Morning at St Mary’s
Festive Coffee Morning St Mary's Church Coddenham on Saturday 17th December 10.00- 12 noon. With seasonal refreshments, Yuletide raffle and The 12 Jars of Christmas. Craft activity for children -...
St Mary’s Christmas Tree
This year the yew tree by the Church porch will be lit up to celebrate Christmas. This will replace the Christmas trees along the path that we have decorated for the last two years. Villagers are...
From The Rectory – A Visitor Came
It was late as the visitor slipped into the back of the church and the evening office had begun. The minister in his stall, half turned his head; had he been seen, had anyone noticed him? In the...
From The Rectory – The Messenger
The evening was dark, windy and wet as I made my way out. Fortunately, the car was just outside the door; a quick dash and I would soon be back in the dry. Turning to lock the door, I noticed a...
Christmas at Coddenham Community Shop 2022
The Community Shop is ready to help you plan for all your Christmas menus. Turnbull's Turkeys can be ordered in store. A wide range of other meats are also available to order from our supplier....
Advent – Prepare Ye – From The Rectory
Night falls, the view from my study slowly fades to shadows, dark cut-outs against the evening sky. Pinpricks of light, traffic on The Street, flash past; otherwise, all is still. The year grows...
Your Community Shop at The Christmas Market
Many thanks to all those who popped along to The Coddenham Centre to the first Christmas Market. We took a range of our local products which proved very popular with the customers. It was lovely to...
Christmas at The Coddenham Centre – Thumbelina
Norwich Puppet Theatre present - Thumbelina at The Coddenham Centre. Saturday 3rd December at 3pm. There was once a girl so small that she could float on a lily pad and ride on the back of...
Christmas at St Mary’s
Christmas starts with The East of England Co-op Band Christmas Concert at St Mary's on Sunday 4th December at 2.30pm. Join us for some brass band classics and traditional Christmas Carols. Tickets...
Christmas is Coming at Coddenham Community Shop
Our Christmas stock is in, and we couldn't wait to put it on the shelves so everyone can start stocking up for Christmas. We have a wide range of goodies - chocolates, biscuits, savouries, new wines...
From The Rectory – Through the Darkness
Mary and I recently enjoyed the ballet ‘Sleeping Beauty’, at Buxton Opera House. A magical tale where love overcomes evil. We had a relaxing holiday, enjoying, in addition to the ballet, some of...
From The Rectory – The Shadow Standing Guard
The streets are lined with large red poppies. At the village memorial, a life-sized shadow of a soldier stands guard, arms reversed. Around the memorial, the names of the fallen are recorded in...
Coffee Morning at St Mary’s
Saturday 12th November 10.00-12 noon Enjoy a warming bacon buttie and support St Elizabeth Hospice. Christmas cards, hats, gloves for sale. Fairtrade are also coming along with gifts galore and...