There were celebrations in St Mary’s, Avington as the friends and family of Paul and Julie Garabette came to enjoy a short Service of Blessing for their Marriage.

The bride’s father, a retired Christian minister, spoke movingly from Psalm 37, praying more of God’s blessing on the couple. And it was great to see this historic church filled to capacity.

Then, on Sunday morning, the celebrations moved to St John’s, Itchen Abbas, when we witnessed Phil and Alex bring their daughter, Rory, to baptism.

Later in the service we also gave a baptism candle to James and Libby, to mark the recent baptism of their daughter, Grace; and had the opportunity to pray for Chris and Victoria as they prepare for their wedding in Easton later in August.

Revd Peter