The Henson Journals

[299]

20th Sunday after Trinity, October 25th, 1925.

I celebrated the Holy Communion in the Chapel at 8 a.m. There were 8 communicants, including James Wilson, the new butler's boy, who entered my service last week. His predecessor was a good lad, who very sensibly decided to accept a position at an adjacent colliery, where there was some prospect. I am sorry to lose him, but think he has chosen wisely, for he was not naturally well suited for 'service'.

I prepared notes for the evening's sermon, wrote to Robin, read the 'Observer', and walked in the Park for an hour with Ella. The autumnal colouring seen in the sunlight were ravishingly beautiful.

S. Paul's, Spennymoor, is celebrating its "Jubilee". I attended Evensong, & dedicated a new Altar. Also I preached to a congregation which filled the Church to its utmost capacity. My text was "Man doth not live by bread alone", & my sermon, delivered from notes, was closely listened to. The Vicar of Tudhoe, MrBell, carried the pastoral staff. There is quite a flourishing troop of the Church Lads Brigade in the parish. They lined the path, & gave me Khaki: for, indeed, the discipline of military service "bites on" to something in the adolescent which nothing else appeals to with equal success.

---