Rev Chris’s Weekly Update 08/01

Dear all,

HAPPY NEW YEAR

I say that with just a touch of nervousness when considering the challenges that we continue to face both nationally and internationally, particularly as I am ‘a glass half empty’ sort of person. Nevertheless, it is good to look for the positives and these often come in the smallest of ways as we encounter people from day to day – that could be through a smile, a ‘thank you’, or a listening ear. Greater ‘intentionality’ with such things might just be a reasonable and achievable New Year’s resolution.

The New Year will bring a period of change for the parish when I leave in February and in recent weeks a lot of people have asked me how long it will take for a new priest to be appointed. There is no easy answer to this as the process is fairly involved, but clearly all will be working to keep the interregnum as short as possible. The churchwardens and Parochial Church Council (PCC), with the support of the Area Dean and Archdeacon, carry the responsibility of maintaining the life of the church and of developing a ‘Parish Profile’.

A Parish Profile is a key part of the process of attracting a new priest to work with the parish as they seek to serve the needs of the church, the community, and the Gospel of Christ. It provides important information about the church and the surrounding community and needs to be carefully thought through, which can take time.

The important thing to remember is that all will be doing their very best to ensure the smooth running of the church. Please pray for them and support them in the task ahead.

Blessings,

Rev Chris