The organist librarian

Swim, Mass Fr Stuart Meyer leaves tomorrow - I will miss his inspiring homilies! Henry back from Ireland came to play then we went to the Ashcroft theatre to see Dear Zoo. It was excellent. Surprised to see the seats have not been refurbished at all! Too late for quiet time. Liz went to St Mary Bourne St for the funeral of Mark Bushby he had not reached 40. Sang Parsons Ave Maria. To dinner at St Martin in the fields. Excellent dialogue on mercy and music between Lucy Winkett and Bob Chilcott. She answered my question on division caused in church by music brilliantly - there should be a place for all styles. St Martin's singers including Jonathan Dods sang Tallis, Chilcott, Moore and Bach beautifully. Wine downstairs so a chance to thank Lucy personally. Watched Bake off. Vitriol on Facebook from so-called Catholics.

Both swam (first time for ages) Mass. Fr Robin led a brilliant day on the raising of Lazarus. Marilyn Harper entertained us with Sweelinck at St Matthew Westminster. Evensong at Temple Church, two Alleluias! Fine anthem by Philip Moore. Bach very well played. Creed and responses cut and last verses of hymns changed. Why? Perhaps to accommodate those there for launch of book on Christian, Jewish and Islamic law? Watched Mary Berry cooking and Juliet won Great sewing bee. 

The dementia talk underlined that the brain has two modes -so one half can forget people but the other half has a feeling of wellbeing and happiness as the result of a visit. So it is vital to keep visiting those who appear not to know you. Does the same thing apply when someone is very ill or dying? Talking to the person can break through in some way. Did this happen when Jesus said "Mary" to Mary Magdalene? Recognition came at the supper at Emmaus from an action. I have been reading "The grace of waiting" by Margaret Whipp and she has much to say about waiting with those who are ill. Palm Sunday played Bach and we sang Drop drop and To mock your reign. The way of the cross at St John Upper Norwood was beautiful. Monteverdi, Walton Litany, Monteverdi, Parry on Rockingham, Bach and Philip Moore. The Durrells and the repair shop.