Magazine for July 2011
A Letter from Ellie
“We are a family, and good families spend time with each other. The closer our relationships, the better we are able to spur each other on in the Christian life. And the more we do that, the better we will worship God – not just on Sundays, but with the whole of our lives.” Roberts (2002) ‘True Worship’
In the last month there have been many and varied opportunities to express our life together as family – the regular pattern of Sunday services, midweek events such as the Ascension Day service or small groups, and in special events like the wonderful international Fiesta in aid of Careforce. And there are, of course, more opportunities to come with a concert in church on Saturday 9th July and a united open-air service and BBQ on the 10th July. And I believe that there is a party planned for all the church family on Friday 15th July – because some people are leaving…..
I have managed to move house at least a dozen different times in my life and lived in eight different towns or cities – one might assume I was used to the pain of parting now, but I am not. Being part of this church family has been an enormous privilege for me and Jeremy. You have been generous with your welcome and made us feel at home very quickly.
Now, as we look forward to starting a new chapter in our lives, we also feel a tremendous sadness at saying goodbye to our lovely St Mark’s family. We will miss you very much.
I am, however, convinced that change, movement and new patterns are all part of life as it should be if the church is called to be like a family. We need to grow together. We need to change and develop and adapt and allow one another to find our way, whilst remaining faithful to God and to one another. We need to make room for new members of the church family – and to be radically welcoming when they come through our doors. I encourage you to continue to grow as a family – to help each other find a place, and to love one another with a patient, forgiving and joyful love. And as you live, worship, share life together, may you know God’s blessing and may you continue to reflect God’s light and love in this community and out into the world.
As ever, with love from your Curate,
Ellie