Dear friends
In the light of the last few days I wanted to keep in touch. I knew when I was writing my last message on Thursday that things were not good in relation to the Queen’s health. As I sat in church amongst the bustle of craft group and set up for Space that evening we knew that there was something happening that would affect the nation. Everyone is different so will have reacted to the news in different ways. We do know that for many in our country and across the world, the news will have brought sadness and uncertainty, especially with all the other changes that seem to be happening. It may have brought up feelings of loss in our own lives from people we miss who have died. I know I have been talking to my children a lot more over the last few days about death and heaven as they link the death of the Queen to the loss of their two Grandads last year. It reminds me again that however we feel, there is an opportunity to acknowledge those things but also to stand with others in their loss and confusion as well as speak about the hope we have in the storm. We have an opportunity to pray for our nation, our leaders, our neighbours, our families and friends.
Tomorrow the service will reflect some of the things that have been going on this week as well as looking forward in hope. It’s designed for all and I want to thank all who are leading. There will be an opportunity for people to share tomorrow too if you have a prayer or thought. We have a book that people can write in with their thoughts about the Queen and prayers for others. It will be available in the foyer all week. The church building was open on Thursday evening and Friday evening last week and we have met some of our community who wanted a space to think. Next week the building will be open Monday 10-12, Tuesday 10-12 and Wednesday 6.30-7.30 for anyone to come and be and pray. If you want to come yourself, come with others or be around for any of our local community who may want to come in then it would be great to see you. We want to be a church without walls and this is one way we can be there for people at this time.
“The Christmas message shows us that this love is for everyone. There is no one beyond its reach.” (Queen Elizabeth II, 2013).
Keep in touch
Shelley, Rachel and the Leadership Team