The end of an era -19th September 2010  Back

This Sunday Bishop David was with us for our harvest celebrations which marked Ben's official farewell as he retired after eight years of ministry at St Johns, twenty seven years in the diocese of Europe and forty three years as a priest. .

Bishop David, Anne, Ben


PSALM FOR BEN AND ANNE
by Shirley Rowson


1.    It came to pass 8 years ago: that the Reverend Canon Ben Eaton arrived at St John’s.
2.    He was accompanied by his wife Anne: a lady of formidable talents.
3.    They set about their task with gusto: making friends with all and sundry.
4.    A new service book was introduced: and strange new hymns made an appearance.
5.    Due to the quality of the Chaplain’s singing: it was not always possible to detect which tune was being used.
6.    But the congregation was not daunted: and carried on regardless.
7.    The style of sermons was most unusual: including jokes from the Bible Belt.
8.    But once the audience had learned the accent: they could understand their American Anglican.
9.    Lo, there occurred a momentous occasion: the celebration of one hundred years.
10.    A renovation scheme was mooted : and the congregation dug deep.
11.    The Chaplain and his wife: appointed an estimable site manager.
12.    Who devoted much of his time and efforts: to seeing the project through.
13.    There were ceremonies of great rejoicing: with music and feasting on a grand scale.
14.    And all the people said: “All our giving has not been in vain!”
15.    The Chaplain’s wife then continued the feasting: organising banquets on a regular basis.
16.    The congregation is now several pounds heavier: but  know each other very well.
17.    The blessed couple are now moving on: and we thank them for all their endeavours.
18.    We wish them well in their new life: and that is why we sing:
19.    Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
20.    As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be: world without end, Amen.



© The English Language Church of St. John the Evangelist, Var, South of France.
Part of the Anglican Diocese in Europe
Page created September 2010