A Joyful Farewell: Our Final Service as the Parish of Ewhurst, Okewood & Forest Green

Sunday’s Holy Communion service at Holy Trinity, Forest Green marked a significant and heartfelt moment in the life of our churches — our final service as the united Parish of Ewhurst, Okewood and Forest Green.

For the past seven years, we have walked together as a combined parish — sharing in worship, mission, and friendship. Last Sunday was a time to pause, give thanks, and celebrate everything we’ve built and experienced together.

The service was beautifully led by Reverend Rosemary Mason with Reverand John Marsh, who delivered a thoughtful and inspiring sermon reflecting on our shared journey. He spoke about the importance of carrying forward what we’ve learned from one another — the spirit of collaboration, kindness, and shared faith — as we now look ahead to our next chapters.

There was a tangible sense of community, gratitude, and hope throughout the morning. After the service, we gathered outside under the summer sun to enjoy elderflower cordial and strawberries and cream, kindly prepared and shared by members of the congregation. It was a lovely moment of fellowship and joy — a true celebration of all that we’ve shared.

As we now step forward into two new parishes we go with hearts full of thankfulness and hope. We pray for blessing, wisdom, and growth for both new communities, and we trust that the strong foundations we’ve built together will continue to bear fruit in the years to come.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. May God guide us all as we begin our next season of ministry and mission