Just recently, and coincidentally, I’ve been reminiscing with several different groups of friends about Covid times and the effects the pandemic had on each and every one of us. I imagine that, in years to come, young people will be learning about these times in their school history lessons, just as we learned about the Black Death which occurred so long ago in Europe between 1346 and 1353 and was one of the most fatal pandemics in human history resulting in as many as 50 million people losing their lives.

During, what should be, the least stressful season of the year for many of us, we have experienced disturbing times. The ongoing conflicts around our fractured world, especially in Ukraine and Gaza, continue to horrify us daily as we pray fervently for an end to such horrors, particularly when we see the images of terrified children and heartbroken adults on our television screens. Closer to home, we shockingly saw the deaths of three totally innocent and adored little girls, Bebe, Elsie and Alice, who died as a result of unfathomable violence, in Southport.

At the invitation of Reverend Mark and Jess, a wonderful afternoon get together was enjoyed in the lovely Nolton Rectory Garden on Sunday 14th July. The sun shone brightly as so many, from all eight churches across the Ministry Area, enjoyed delicious refreshments, conversation and laughter. The fellowship and friendship was tangible. Many, who prior to this moment, had not made contact with each other, were soon exchanging information and anecdotes relating to themselves and their churches.