Spring into summerBy The Revd David Burgess
It’s exactly a year ago that I returned to work, and 18 months since I was ill, and, slowly and gradually, things are changing.
The lay involvement in services and church administration that was necessary while I was off work has continued as a more integral part of what the churches do together, and in fact is growing. If part of me, if I’m honest, wishes that this had come a little sooner, the rest of me is very glad that it’s happening.
One of the really encouraging developments is the number of opportunities we now have in the parishes for sharing and exploring our faith together in small groups.
At one stage before Christmas across the churches we had a group for Bible study, one exploring worship, one where a series of individuals told their stories of faith, a group for young teenagers, and a confirmation class, all running concurrently. This has to be healthy for the future.
This priority is continuing through the spring and summer. The Hilltop House Fellowship for Bible study and prayer is continuing at King’s Ransom, King’s Ash, under Reina Free’s leadership. By the time you read this, two other groups will be underway: ‘Sharia and Shalom’, a three-part course on Islam and Judaism from a Christian perspective, and ‘Visionaries’, a study and discussion course on visions, dreams, angels and the gifts of the Spirit as depicted in the Bible. Details of all these are given elsewhere in the newsletter.
The young people’s group continues to meet. I’d also like to put in a word for the St Leonard’s Film Evenings, which showed a run of films up to Easter which were either Christian or faith-based productions. These evenings are continuing; good, thought-provoking films are being chosen; and the event really deserves more support than it’s getting at present.
Another spin-off from increased lay involvement is the extra time I have to plan and think ahead. I’m blocking dates into the diary for courses and Confirmation classes in the autumn, and giving thought to some ideas for Christmas and Easter 2009. I’d like to think that, spiritually, interesting times are ahead.
If you’ve not given any of these a go, why not try this summer? Everything we’ve planned is designed to be as relaxed and welcoming as possible, and the intention is that both experienced Christians and explorers, seekers, or those who are just curious, can benefit from what’s on offer.
We look forward to seeing you if you can make it.