September arrives, and with it a bit of a return to normal life across the Ministry Area. Over the coming months, I am keen to meet with every congregation to talk about what ‘success’ might look like in each of our different contexts. As we begin to discern where the Lord is leading us, we should be open to the diversity of gifting that comes from the one Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4). Some of our congregations may long to see vibrant youth and families work, some aspire to connect more profoundly with their local communities. Some of our congregations will want to develop musical pathways, to reinvigorate their choral tradition, others will want to explore new ways of worshiping. God has given each of our congregations a unique gift, a unique calling, and a unique responsibility. We must pray for God will reveal his special will for us, and then we must be faithful to walk in it. Although there will be share commitments, to prayerfulness, hospitality, generosity, and evangelism, the way our Christian values play out will vary from place to place.

For the Diary:

7.14 Prayer: Every Wednesday in Term Time, at 7.14 in the Rectory, as inspired by 2 Chronicles 7:14 we turn, seek, and pray – expecting that God will hear and heal.

Alpha: In the New Year, we will be looking at developing pathways for people who do not yet know the Lord, to discover his amazing love for them. Alpha is a great way to introduce people to the person of Jesus. Begin to think who you may want to invite.

Biblios: We are expecting around 20 people to scatter around the Rectory to study the Bible together – we hope very much to run the course again soon. Let me know if you are interested.

Giving: As we approach the end of the year, you may be planning a review of your regular giving. If so, let me encourage you to take a step towards Direct Giving – it really does save a great deal of counting, and accounting – plus it makes claiming Gift Aid much easier.