“Septuagsima” by Sir John Betjeman

This past week, I came across a poem titled “Septuagsima” by Sir John Betjeman, which was recited some years ago by Prince Charles on the occasion of National Poetry Day. The last half is as follows:

And when it comes that I must die

I hope the Vicar’s standing by,

I won’t care if he’s “Low” or “High”

For he’ll be there to aid my soul

On that dread journey to its goal,

With Sacrament and prayer and Blessing

After I’ve done my last confessing.

And at that time may I receive

The Grace most firmly to believe,

For if the Christian’s Faith’s untrue

What is the point of me and you?

But this is all anticipating

Septuagesima—time of waiting,

Running the race or holding fast.

Let’s praise the man who goes to light

The church stove on an icy night.

Let’s praise that hard-worked he or she

The Treasurer of the P.C.C.

Let’s praise the cleaner of the aisles,

The nave and candlesticks and tiles.

Let’s praise the organist who tries

To make the choir increase in size,

Or if that simply cannot be,

Just to improve its quality.

Let’s praise the ringers in the tower

Who come to ring in cold and shower.

But most of all let’s praise the few

Who are seen in their accustomed pew

Throughout the year, whate’er the weather,

That they may worship God together.

These, like a fire of glowing coals,

Strike warmth into each other’s souls,

And though they be but two or three

They keep the church for you and me.

With the weather these past two weeks, I found this poem to be fitting. In the midst of not being able to gather as we usually do, I have deeply missed seeing the pews fill, hearing your voices joined in hymns, and sharing in the worship of God with all of you.

During these cold weeks, the building may have been quieter than usual, but I have been so grateful for you all who braved the icy roads and cold to tend to the building’s needs, who checked on one another, and who held fast to their commitment even when it would have been easier to stay home. Your sacrifice has not gone unnoticed, and I am profoundly grateful for the care you have shown, not just to our physical space but to each other during these past two weeks.

Betjeman’s words ring especially true now: “Let’s praise the few who are seen in their accustomed pew throughout the year, whate’er the weather.” Those of you who came regardless of the conditions embody the faithfulness that sustains our community. Like those glowing coals the poet describes, you have kept the warmth of our church, ensuring that when we all return, we will find it ready to welcome us home.

As the weather begins to turn and we look forward to gathering together again in full number, I am filled with anticipation and joy. Soon we will be reunited to worship together and to give thanks as one body for God’s faithfulness through every season.