Claire Abraham said she loved Lent and this year had felt even more special to her. She had been attempting to spiritually declutter. She was also seeking to do good for others, study and think about everything to do with God. This led to seeking to find more time to pray. She went to a Catholic school and had been a Catholic for as long as she could remember. A number of specific experiences had led her into an ever deeper sense of her relationship with God. Ultimately Claire believed that she was called to lead and teach others. To continue on this journey, two years ago she left her local catholic church and became a member of the C. of E. church in Doddinghurst. Two years on from this she will soon be leaving her job in financial services, based at Canary Wharf, to study full time for the Anglican ministry. This will mean living at the theological college at Cuddeston, deep in the Oxfordshire countryside. If this has been a roller-coaster ride for Claire, how much more must it be for husband Russell! He has supported her through the journey. She commented how amazing he had been and continues to be as they contemplate a very different future life.
Tonight’s playlist
Seals & Crofts – We may never pass this way again – USA no 21 in 1973.
Phil Collins – Another day in Paradise – chosen by Claire as she feels that work with homeless people is very important.
Gerry & the Pacemakers – You’ll never walk alone – chosen by Claire
Extreme – More than words can say – chosen by Claire
Joe Stilgoe – Waterloo sunset
Swinging Blue Jeans – Hippy hippy shake – requested by Phyl for Claire. She thought the interview was amazing.
Gloria Estafan – Can’t stay away from you – requested by Patrick
Jim Glaser – Getting to me again – Country singer Jim passed away this week.
Mike Post – L.A. Law theme 1984
Coldplay – Paradise – Guy Berryman – bassist in the band, celebrating his 41st birthday today.
Bryan McFadden & Delta Goodman – Almost there – former Westlife singer Bryan celebrating his 39th birthday.
Herbie Hancock – Rocket – a jazz-funk fusion track from 1983 from Herbie, celebrating his 79th birthday today.
Feature album – Blue by Joni Mitchel. In 2012 Rolling Stone listed this as the 30th best album ever made. In 2017 NPR ranked this as the greatest album of all time from a woman.
Carie, A case of you, California.
Carrie Underwood – What I never knew – from the album Storyteller.
Beach Boys – That’s why God made the radio
Sophie Griffiths – Beauty
Seasick Steve – Started out with nothing – enjoyed by Rene, driving home and agreeing with the sentiment.
Tom Jones – What good am I – from the album Praise & Blame.
Join me next week for a Good Friday & Easter special. My guest will be Tim Lee from Buttsbury, Margaretting and Mountnessing C. of E. churches.