Bisham Together

The Monthly Newsletter from All Saints Bisham August 2025

Hello everyone,

As we move through the warmth of August, I hope this newsletter finds you enjoying a bit of rest and some summer sunshine - though after July’s heatwaves, perhaps a little shade and a cool breeze are just as welcome! Whether you're staying local or heading off on holiday, this time of year gives us a chance to pause and notice the quiet blessings around us. I hope you enjoy the read, and that this season brings you peace and gentle joy.

Carol Interim

Team Vicar

🕍 Church Life

Worship & Events:

• Every Sunday: 9.30am Holy Communion at All Saints Bisham

• First Sunday of every month: 8am Book of Common Prayer Service – next services: 7th September

  
  

🙏 Rector Vacancy

Thank you so much for all your prayers on Monday. The Archdeacon of Dorchester, David Tyler, who chaired the Interview Panel, commented that “it was a very good day.” Because of holiday timings, there will be a short delay before any further updates can be shared. We’re grateful for your continued patience and prayers. Thanks go to Hamish Hunter for his contribution and representing All Saints Bisham during the selection process.

Sundays at All Saints

🌱 The Kingdom of Heaven is like...

Throughout the summer, we’re exploring the parables Jesus told that begin, “The kingdom of heaven is like…” These short stories—about weeds and wheat, mustard seeds, yeast, hidden treasure, pearls, and more—may seem simple at first glance, but they carry deep meaning. Jesus used them to open people’s eyes to what God’s kingdom is really like: not a distant or lofty idea, but something growing quietly among us, something of great value, something that changes everything when we begin to see it. Whether or not you’d call yourself a person of faith, these parables invite us to pause, reflect, and ask bigger questions about what truly matters. What if the kingdom Jesus spoke of is already closer than we think? We’d love you to join us on a Sunday as we listen again to his words and explore together what they might mean for us today.

And In Other News This Month

💍 Called to Make a Difference

On 17th July, the church was the setting for a very special Silver Jewellery Party, which brought together around 15 people for a relaxed and interesting time.

Alejandra, the founder of More Precious than Silver, shared the story behind her business and the values that shape it. After discovering that the original supply chains she was using to buy her jewellery were not treating artisans fairly, she made the decision to work directly with skilled makers in Taxco, Mexico— ensuring they are paid and treated ethically.

She also shared how the name of her company came from a friend’s reminder to her, that God is more precious than silver—and that to God, each one of us is too. It was a powerful reflection woven through an afternoon full of beauty, conversation, and community.

Thanks go to Rosie and Judy from the Friends who kindly served refreshments, and many of Alejandra’s stunning pieces found new homes. We’re grateful to everyone who helped make it a meaningful and memorable occasion!

We hope to have another opportunity for people to come along to another party later in the year!

💧A Joyful Celebration of Baptism

There was a familiar face back at Bisham last Sunday, when we welcomed Revd John Smith here, to take the service and to baptise his granddaughter, Clementine, in our church. It was lovely to see both John and all his family, come to celebrate together, and with around 40 guests, the church was full, and the service was a warm and happy occasion, full of love and faith. It was a very special moment both for John’s family and for our own church community.

🕯️ Bisham Church Tours: History & Heritage

Our regular church tours, led by our local historian Sheila, bring Bisham Church’s rich history to life— from the days of the Hoby family right through to the present. We recently enjoyed a wonderful tour on 25th July, and there are more to come!

Each tour lasts about two hours and offers a fascinating glimpse into the stories and heritage of our church. Tours cost £7.50 per person and include tea or coffee with biscuits.

A hearing loop is available in the church for those who use hearing aids. To join a tour, simply book through the Church Friends website. The next tour is on 27th September, so book now to be sure not to miss out! www.bishamchurchfriends.org

We look forward to welcoming you!

⛪ ☕ History Coffee Mornings at All Saints

We had another great turnout for our coffee morning on 10th July, with around 33 people coming along to sample amazing cakes and listen to another slice of village history. The talk, “The Legacy of War”, delved into how the world wars shaped the lives, landscapes, and memories of our community—highlighting stories of local bravery, loss, and resilience.

We reflected together on the lasting impact of those times and how history continues to live within our village today.

Many thanks to Gina and Sean, with the help of new volunteers Anne, (Gina’s friend!) and Jean from the village, along with Janet from our church congregation who served everyone fresh coffee and created such a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Join us for our next History talk and complimentary coffee on Tuesday 16th September, when we will be reflecting on the end of an era… we look forward to seeing you!

🎓 Year 6 Leavers’ Assembly: A Fond Farewell

At the end of term, the whole school gathered, along with 52 proud parents and all the staff, for a very special Year 6 Leavers’ Assembly. It was a moving and joy-filled occasion, celebrating the end of one chapter and the beginning of another for our oldest pupils. A photo montage of the children through their years at school brought both smiles and a few tears, as everyone reflected on how much they’ve grown—both in stature and in character.

Miss Harrison, the Year 6 teacher, gave a warm and heartfelt farewell message to her class, and the children themselves shared some of their favourite memories from their time at the school. It was lovely to hear their reflections—funny, touching, and full of gratitude.

I had the privilege of giving a short talk, reminding the children that wherever they go next, God goes with them. I shared the story of Joshua from the Bible, where God tells him to be strong and courageous, because he will never be alone. As a parting gift, each Year 6 pupil was given a book about prayer—a reminder that God is always ready to listen, whatever the future holds.

We were also delighted to be joined by Revd John Smith—an unexpected but very welcome addition to the morning—and our thanks go to Sean and Lyds for their help with refreshments.

But the biggest thanks must go to all the teachers for their hard work and dedication to ensure every child has the best experience of school; we wish all our Year 6 leavers every blessing as they take their next steps into secondary school life.

🦁 A Roaring Success: The Lion King at Bisham School!

One of the highlights of the end of term was Bisham School’s outdoor performance of The Lion King—a wonderful, whole-school production that brought the school field to life on a warm summer evening.

Year 6 pupils took on the lead roles with confidence, while every child in the school had a part to play, creating a real sense of community and shared achievement.

The performance was enjoyed by a large crowd of proud parents and friends, who were treated to wonderful singing, vibrant costumes, and enthusiastic storytelling. Huge thanks go to Mrs Brookman and all the staff for their dedication and support in making this memorable event such a roaring success!

📌 Community Notices

Contact us:

Parish Office (Marlow) 01628 481806 | parish.office@4u-team.org

Rev Carol Cooper 07774 061944 | carol.cooper@4u-team.org

Mark Garrad (Churchwarden) 07738 029086 | garrad.mark@gmail.com

Bisham Church Friends (Sean) 07808 094777 | www.bishamchurchfriends.org