On a very welcome afternoon of sunshine and warmth yesterday, once again the Itchen Abbas Village Hall was the site of a lively and varied session of Café Church, with about 50 people present.

The church family was able to congratulate Fraser N on taking a big step of faith for himself, following his confirmation at Winchester Cathedral on Saturday.  We learned from a short interview with Fraser more about his passions across music, sport, cooking and gardening as well as the impact of Jesus’ statement in Chapter 15 of the Gospel of John – ‘I am the true vine’ – on him spiritually as he prepared for his confirmation.    A special cake celebrating his confirmation was much enjoyed by those present, along with a customary array of other sweet and savoury treats to accompany tea.

John Barber gave a talk which sought to draw out spiritual insights on God’s light and its transformational impact by focusing on a famous watercolour scene, ‘The White House at Chelsea,’ painted by Thomas Girtin in 1800 and part of the Tate Gallery’s collection.   He used 2 Corinthians 3:7-18 as a Biblical reference point, which Kate Mezger drew on as well in her prayers.

The White House at Chelsea 1800 Thomas Girtin 1775-1802 Bequeathed by Mrs Ada Montefiore 1933 http://www.tate.org.uk/art/work/N04728

The focus of our craft table was also on watercolours, thanks to supplies and inspiration brought by James and Verity Greig – there was so much demand for this expressive activity that a second table had to be put in place rapidly to accommodate it.

Finally, our band – consisting of Sarah Noble, Tim Clapp, Alfie W and Fraser N, with George C in support on technology – led us in two rousing songs as a really fun and fulfilling session came to a close.

As always our dedicated team of volunteers in the kitchen, on set up and clean up duty and serving food made Café Church come to life and we are so grateful to all of them.