Change is inevitable, and like a lot of people I find this difficult at times. The hours of daylight are reducing, and the temperature decreasing, but this brings beautiful Autumn leaf colours.

Many children have left one level of education, to begin new schools and colleges or jobs; whilst others, like my granddaughter, have started school for the first time, most with enthusiasm but leaving many parents bereft.

The parishioners of SS Alban & Stephen have seen the biggest change in the 120 year history of the parish, with the leaving of our beloved Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, two to semi-retirement in Ireland, with all the changes this entails. After an unbroken succession of these wonderful priests, most of whom, in previous positions, have spent more than 30 years serving in the overseas missions predominantly in S Africa, we understandably feel sad. But we have been fortunate in welcoming two priests appointed by the Diocese of Westminster. They have left their last posts to live in St Albans and have set about the daunting task of getting to know our 2000 plus congregation with understanding, energy and enthusiasm.

On the last Sunday in November the Christian church year comes to an end with the feast of Christ the King of the Universe. But the following Sunday we begin the start of the new church year with Advent, to prepare for the celebration of Christmas.

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Readers who submit articles must agree to our terms of use. The content is the sole responsibility of the contributor and is unmoderated. But we will react if anything that breaks the rules comes to our attention. If you wish to complain about this article, contact us here