DECEMBER Vol. 35 No. 12.

Rev’d Tim writes:

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Let me begin by saying again how excited and delighted I am to have officially started as the Priest-in-Charge of our benefice. I am deeply thankful to everyone who helped to make my licensing and welcome here so special. It has been great to meet so many people already and I look forward to sharing this season of Advent together.

This time of year is a really exciting time for mission. Almost everyone in our communities will be observing Christmas in some way and so it’s never going to be easier to say a word or two about the hope that makes us, as Christians, want to celebrate so much.

But what should we say? For me, the most important message I try to get across at Christmas is the fact that God has come to meet us.

Many people have some sense of personal spiritual yearning, but aren't quite sure what to do about it. Part of the good news of Christmas is that we are no longer left in the dark about God. He’s not stuck up in heaven, shrouded in philosophical obscurity. Instead, he has come and lived among us. He’s become part of the human story, part of history.

Christmas therefore is not  just about sing carols in beautifully decorated churches. Rather, Christmas is a chance to meet the God in whom all our spiritual hungers are satisfied. A God who came in to the reality of everyday life and has let himself be known. That’s the message we try to get across at Christmas.

So this year, take time to invite someone to a Christmas service. But afterwards, take the time also to ask them what they thought of it. And in particular, ask them what they think of the God who decided he wanted to move in to a Bethlehem cattle shed to meet you.

God Bless

Rev’d Tim

The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means “God with us”. Matthew 1:29

NOVEMBER 2013 Vol. 35. No. 11

Sue Shaw writes:  

New beginnings.

Dear Friends

From 2 Corinthians, chapter 5, verse 17:  So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!

At a special service at 7.30pm on Wednesday November 6^th Revd. Tim Parker will become our Priest in Charge for the Benefice. Welcome to Tim!

When you read this page in your Compass in December, he will be the author. That’s the first new beginning.

On Remembrance Sunday, 10^th November, we recall the wars when men and women turned their back on their “normal life” and headed for a new beginning. Some went to fight in the war, joined the Land Army, or started working in munitions factories, for example. Children living in risky areas left the familiarity of home, beginning life as evacuees in safer places. Their life-changing decisions were all about a better world of freedom, where dictatorship and injustice would be destroyed. Even now, for some families, deeply affected by loss of life or serious injuries to brave soldiers, their future is a new, very difficult beginning.

We still do not live in an idyllic world. We are appalled by the horrors at the Nairobi shopping centre and the desperation of the “boat people” who died in the sea, only yards away from escape to an Italian island.

I was given the words of a hymn, which ends with this verse –

“Still we need dreams, O God, make us your dreamers,

Inflame our passion for a world made whole,

A world where love extends to all a welcome,

Where justice, like a powerful stream, will roll.

Come, Prince of Peace, our fading hope rekindle,

‘Your kingdom come’ we pray, let peace be made.”

Please join me in praying to Jesus, the Prince of Peace, for that kind of world. Let’s start by praying for peace, especially in areas of conflict, and for the people who are striving, at home and abroad, to bring about that peace.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. (Matt 5.9)

This world needs a new beginning. Each of us needs a new beginning – Jesus gives us that New Life, through the Holy Spirit. Accept it for yourself and He will change you for eternity.

May the peace of the Lord be always with you.              

 

Sue

OCTOBER 2013 Vol. 35 No. 10

John O’Nions writes:  

Reflections on Autumn

Dear Friends,

As you read this, the season of Autumn will have arrived, a season with the promise of a good harvest; a time of mellowness when leaves turn to gold and the misty evening air has a slight chill.  I remember as a child, autumn meant the first lighting of a coal fire in the evening, hot milk before bedtime and the excitement and fear of starting a new class or school.   Now in the autumn of my life, it brings a mixture of nostalgia as I look back at the blessing of life’s high summer along with an excitement, sometimes trepidation, of what the future holds; and in looking back rejoice to see how God has led me thus far.

But there is one certainty - the future will hold change.  Increasingly as we age we experience the passing of loved ones and there are lonely gaps in our lives.  The realization too of our declining vitality and health means some of us cannot do the things we once did; our world changes daily and not always for the best.  Some of our children, or their children, will be leaving home for the first time this Autumn, some nests will feel very empty, the silence deafening.  Our children are growing up in a world and environment far different from our own, many of them feeling, as some of us do, desperately afraid of what the future holds.

In the bible the word autumn occurs only once in Jude 1:12, where false teachers are compared to “Autumn trees without fruit”.  God expects us to be fruitful.  He expects us to pass on to our children and others his true teaching and his love.  And we who have experienced life and seen God’s blessings in our lives, who have seen his provision and felt his guidance, still have much to do.  Every farmer knows that after the corn has been harvested there is yet more work waiting to be done.  It maybe that in the autumn of our years we are called to take advantage of God’s Harvest in us, and sow the seeds he has stored within us over the years.  Everyone is needed; everyone is valued doing his work. There is no age restriction.

Amidst this season of change, of transition, one thing, one person never changes, our God and his love for us which feeds and nurtures us but also braces us, like stored harvest grain, for the cold winter days.  Be assured, in faith we will enjoy the love and fellowship of God for all time. The world may grow old and fade, the seasons change, and harvests fail but God, who has been our help in ages past, is still our hope, our strength and support for today and for the years to come.   For our God knows the end as he knew the beginning and he will bless us in whatever is offered to him in faith with thanksgiving. 

May your harvest be fruitful,

with love John

SEPTEMBER 2013 Vol. 35. No 9

Sue Waterston writes:  

Dear Friends,

On 28th August 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln memorial in Washington DC one of the most powerful and memorable speeches ever heard was made by Dr Martin Luther King Jr.  He was challenging the citizens of America – and the wider world – to consider the true meaning of civil rights and freedom and to recognise that all people are created equal.

Jesus taught his followers the importance of respecting our fellow human beings as human beings, regardless of their faith or age or colour, for we are all loved by God.  ‘Love our neighbour as our self’ we have been taught by him; in other words, treat others as we would have them treat us.  It is a good way to live, but sadly these days, we are witnessing increasingly more incidents where this does not happen, not least among those users of social networking sites. 

Bullying behaviour is frowned upon everywhere; at work there are policies and procedures to outlaw it with consequences which may affect one’s continued employment; in schools and colleges the disciplinary consequences can be very serious ranging from suspension to expulsion.  But ‘trolling’ as on-line bullying or hate campaigning is called has, to date, not been taken as seriously as it should with some tragic outcomes.  Perhaps this is because the potentially severe or tragic repercussions of something which is written online are not immediately apparent to the bully. Once posted, their message is ‘out of sight’ and becomes just as quickly ‘out of mind’ as they move on to their next victim. 

Most of us would not choose to be bullied by whatever means, and if we witness this happening we should do something about it – without putting ourselves in harm’s way.  If we are to truly follow Jesus’ teaching to “love one another as [he has] loved us” (John 14:12) it is our duty as Christians to do this.  As the Old Testament prophet Micah challenges us: “What is it that the Lord doth require but that you should do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8).  ‘Doing justly’ is challenging this unacceptable behaviour firmly but politely; ‘loving mercy’ is supporting the victims of this and any other kind of abuse, and ‘walking humbly with God’ is praying to him for strength and wisdom to deal with such situations appropriately.

As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of that famous speech, I am emboldened to declare that I, too, have a dream: namely that one day all of God’s children of all ages, faiths and colours will be able to live in harmony with one another and bullying and abuse of all kinds will be a thing of the past.

With my love, prayers and hope, 

 

Sue Waterston.

AUGUST 2013 Vol 35 No. 8

The Rev Pat Edwards writes:  

 Selah.

Dear Friends,

The book of Psalms contains one hundred and fifty poems which reflect the feelings and emotions of their authors whose souls were moved by the thoughts of God. Whatever our state of mind we find a psalm that fits our mood and expresses our emotions. Many of them were written by David, of 'Once in Royal David's City' fame. Often set to music, psalms were designed to express the dynamics of real life experiences through worship.

If we dip into the Book of Psalms in the Bible, notice, occurring fairly frequently, often more than once in a psalm, the word 'Selah'. You may find it's tucked away at the side, but it's there. It's actually an instruction for the musicians. It means 'stop and ponder' and it was understood that during worship, when the word Selah appeared, there was to be a pause to allow everyone time to stop and think about what had been sung.

At the end of June we had two very special services, then a party, as we said our 'Goodbyes' to Glynis and Ron. Several people have asked me why, in the Church of England, we have a time of vacancy, an interregnum, before someone new comes to minister with us. Practicalities aside, the answer is that it gives us a pause for 'Selah'; a time to stop and reflect.  Inevitably, we look back and thank God for all that has happened in our parishes over the years. You can look back a lot further than I can! In the present, we have had the opportunity to take stock of where we are and, more  importantly, we've had time and encouragement to look ahead, to dream with God for the future.  A few days ago I had a conversation with someone; well, I was trying to, I suppose it worked, up to a point. All the time we were talking the person I was chatting to was also doing something with their mobile phone. I know they were listening to me and I got appropriate answers to my questions, but a bit of me felt as though they weren't really interested in what I had to say. (I'm sure they were, but were just busy, but it didn't feel like that at the time.) It occurs to me that I sometimes do that to God, I am trying to listen to him, but I'm a bit busy doing other things at the same time. It's important that we do take time to listen to God, to 'Selah' and give ourselves a chance to hear his voice in the midst of our busy lives.

                                    With my love and prayers,

                                               Pat.

 

JULY 2013 Vol. 35 No.7

 

The Rector writes:

Dear Friends

Our five churches use a hymn book called “Hymns Old and New”. As I write this final letter as your Rector, I find myself thinking of “Friends Old and New”.  There are those among you who have known Ron and myself since we first came to the area, in the years that pre-dated Ron’s licensing as a Reader and my ordination.  We have got to know many other people over the years, both in the Church and the wider community. The nature of ministry as a parish priest is such that I am always meeting new people and I feel that I am constantly making new friends. That is a tremendous joy and blessing. 

People have been asking if I am looking forward to retirement.  The answer is a qualified “yes”. I shall enjoy having more time for the family and for my various hobbies and interests, but I know that there are many aspects of parish ministry that I shall miss, and I am going to miss the people I have got to know and had the privilege of ministering amongst for so many years.  I hope that I shall be able to keep in touch with friends I have made in these parishes, but I do want to urge you all to offer your friendship, encouragement and support to my successor.  Whoever comes next will bring his or her unique personality, gifts and experience to the role. I trust that this will mean new and creative thinking and encouragement for the churches to move forward together, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  It is my earnest prayer that the churches and communities here will flourish and be richly blessed in the time ahead. Yes, there will be challenges, but God has plans for his Church and plans for each one of us.  A Bible verse that has been significant for some of us over the years is Jeremiah 29:11 – “Surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.”

Times of change can feel exciting but also rather uncomfortable and it’s all too easy to look back to how it used to be, perhaps to some imagined golden age (conveniently forgetting those aspects we weren’t so happy about at the time!).  As I look back over fourteen years as Rector, it seems to me that we have come a long way on our journey together.  As in any walk of life, there have been ups and downs, joys and sorrows, successes and failures.  It’s no good dwelling on the past. Instead, let’s rejoice in the good things that are happening now, look to the future, and put our faith and trust in our unchanging God.

As I enter this new phase of my life, I will be praying for my successor, and for God’s blessing on the five parishes, and I will be giving thanks for “Friends Old and New”.  I guess I will make more new friends in retirement, but I will always value the friendships I have found here. 

With much love, and many happy memories

Glynis Hetherington

JUNE 2013 Vol. 35 No. 6

Dear Friends

This is my last but one Rector’s letter for Compass.  By the time the July edition comes out Ron and I will be in the throes of packing up and preparing to move to Hoton, just over the border in Leicestershire.  We are looking forward to living in our new home, but the actual process of moving is somewhat daunting! 

One of the challenges is downsizing from a spacious four bedroomed rectory to a two bedroomed bungalow.  We need to be ruthless about what to take with us and what to part with. In common with many people, we have acquired a lot of “stuff” over the years.  I am conscious that there are many people in the world who have little in the way of material possessions. The ever widening gap between rich and poor should concern us all.  For those of us who have enough and more than enough for our needs, the Christian response is to give what we can to help those less fortunate.  That becomes easier if we can learn to be content with what we have, and not to set too much store by our possessions. 

Jesus was materially poor.  He left home and possessions and travelled around Galilee with his band of disciples.  Jesus enjoyed the hospitality of homes like that of his friends Mary, Martha and Lazarus, and there were those who gave financial support, including a group of women named in Luke’s Gospel.  Throughout the Christian era there have been people who have left their homes and relinquished their possessions to respond to the call to take Christ’s mission to distant lands, or to enter the religious life, where they live in community, without personal wealth or belongings.  Other Christians who do not make that kind of sacrifice are called to give sacrificially to further the mission of the Church, and in support of charitable causes.  This is more than tipping into a collection plate or charity box a bit of loose change that we shall scarcely miss. The paradox is that the more we give of our time, our gifts and ourselves, as well as our financial giving, the more we receive – not in terms of money or possessions, but in blessings from God. 

Jesus taught that we are not to store up treasures on earth, but to store up treasures in heaven and he said, “Where your treasure is there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21; Luke 12:34) The greatest treasure is the joy of knowing Jesus. Serving him brings the added treasure of meeting and getting to know many people.  At the heart of the Christian faith is the relationship we can have with God through Jesus, and being part of the family of the Church.  The more we grow in the knowledge and love of God, and the more we allow his love to flood our hearts and lives, the greater will be our love for one another and our compassion and generosity towards those in need.  Our material possessions are for this life only, to be enjoyed while we have them, but to be held lightly, knowing that we have a far greater treasure which will endure to eternity. 

 

With my love and prayers

                                                Glynis Hetherington

MAY 2013 - Vol. 35, No. 5

Dear Friends

In Chapter 20 of John’s Gospel we read that, on the evening of the day Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, he appeared to a group of disciples who had gathered together, and he greeted them with the words “Peace be with you”.  After the trauma of seeing Jesus arrested, humiliated, abused and crucified, the thoughts of his followers must have been in turmoil.  They must have longed for peace in their hearts.  In our troubled world today, when many people are anxious and afraid, this peace that Jesus offers is something we all need.  This is the peace of God which can calm our fears and help us to weather the storms of life.  On one occasion a group of disciples were literally caught in a storm at sea, with Jesus asleep in the boat.  They awoke Jesus and he spoke words of peace to the wind and the waves, stilling the storm and calming the fears of the disciples.

The risen Christ, after speaking words of peace, breathed on his disciples, saying “Receive the Holy Spirit”. Seven weeks later, the disciples gathered together for the Feast of Pentecost, and the Holy Spirit came to them in a far more dramatic way, experienced as wind and fire.  From this moment they were empowered to share the good news of Jesus and the Church was launched upon the world. The Church celebrates the gift of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost Sunday, sometimes known as Whitsun. The gift of the Holy Spirit is a promise for all Christians.  No matter how the Spirit comes, as wind and fire or the gentle breath of God, the result is transformed lives.  The Spirit shows us what is wrong in our lives and helps us to change, and assures us of God’s forgiveness and love.

A third thing Jesus said to his disciples on the day of resurrection was that, if they forgave anyone’s sins, they were forgiven, but if they retained the sins of any, they were retained.  This Bible passage is usually included in ordination services. It is an immense privilege and an awesome responsibility to pronounce words of forgiveness during worship, or to offer reassurance of forgiveness and the chance of a new beginning to a troubled individual who is sorry for what is wrong in his or her life.  Although that is part of a priest’s role, all of us are called to exercise forgiveness towards those who hurt or upset us.  When anyone retains sins and holds on to feelings of resentment, a barrier is built up, making it hard to come close to God and others.  An unforgiving spirit can eat away at us, causing untold damage to the person who is unforgiving as much as to those who are on the receiving end of a judgmental attitude.  In the First Letter to the Corinthians chapter 13, Paul writes, “Love does not keep a record of wrongs” * and Jesus taught us to pray, “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us”.

At the heart of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is forgiveness of sins, the grace to forgive others and God’s love poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, bringing us peace.  It is a peace that the world cannot give, and a peace that the world desperately needs.

With my love and prayers

* Good News Bible                                Glynis Hetherington

APRIL 2013 Vol. 35 No. 4

Dear Friends

The first day of this month, the day after Easter Sunday, is April Fool’s Day.  Over  the years there have been some clever hoaxes on 1st April that have duped many people.  A classic that a lot of people still remember was a feature on the BBC television programme Panorama broadcast on 1st April 1957.  The show’s presenter, Richard Dimbleby, reported on a bumper spaghetti harvest in southern Switzerland. Last year Palm Sunday fell on 1st April and Radio 4 featured an item about donkey rustling.  Listeners were told that many churches, unable to hire donkeys, were using llamas instead for their Palm Sunday processions. 

Some people think that the Christian Gospel is a hoax and we who believe it are fools. We claim that Jesus Christ, who was crucified, was raised to life again.  This is an amazing claim and it’s hardly surprising if some people find it hard to believe.  There have been plenty of attempts to explain why the tomb where Jesus’ body was laid was found to be empty on the first Easter Sunday. The Gospel writers, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John describe appearances of Jesus to many of his followers, convincing them that he was alive.  In the Easter season we read some of those stories in church as we celebrate the resurrection. Forty days after the resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven, returning to God the Father. The Church celebrates Ascension Day on 9th May.  Then at Pentecost the Holy Spirit came to the disciples filling them with power to proclaim the good news of Jesus who had overcome death and who offers us the gift of eternal life. Pentecost (Whit Sunday) is celebrated this year on 19th May.

Saul of Tarsus (better known to us now at St. Paul) was one who rejected the Gospel message and who persecuted followers of Jesus. Then one day as he was travelling to Damascus a blinding light flashed from the sky, and he heard the voice of Jesus speaking to him.  His life was turned right around and he became totally committed to winning others for Jesus.  In the New Testament we have some of Paul’s letters.  In one of them he wrote, “The message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”  That’s in the First Letter to the Corinthians Chapter 1 verse 18.  Paul has more to say about foolishness and wisdom in the verses which follow.

People have different experiences of coming to faith in Jesus Christ, mostly in a less dramatic way than Paul.  Many people are convinced of the truth of the Gospel message, foolish though it may seem in the eyes of the world. There is evidence for the truth of the message in the difference Jesus still makes in people’s lives today.  We cannot prove that the Gospel message is true, but neither can anyone prove that it is false. It is a matter of faith and of accepting that what may look foolish in some people’s eyes is, in fact, true wisdom. 

With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington

MARCH 2013 Vol. 35 No. 3

Dear Friends

At the beginning of February fifty-four people of all ages from three to eighty-something enjoyed a parish holiday weekend at Willersley Castle in Cromford, Derbyshire.  That was the weekend when the Church celebrated the Presentation of Christ in the Temple, sometimes known as Candlemas.  That’s not such a well known festival as Christmas and Easter, but it is a pivotal moment in the Church’s year.  At Willersley we were given two helpful ways to think about this. During our Saturday evening service Janet Gorick likened it to an elbow, with the upper part of the arm representing Christmas and Epiphany, and the lower part representing the time leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  On the Sunday we celebrated Holy Communion, with chairs arranged in a circle.  Pat Edwards asked us all to stand facing outwards, looking back to Christmas, and singing a verse of Away in a Manager.  Then we turned around to face the centre, and to focus on what is coming next.  I thought  these ideas were worth sharing, in the hope that they will be helpful during Lent and as we prepare to move through Holy Week towards the joyful celebration of Easter.

If Candlemas is a pivotal moment in the Church’s year, then the coming of Jesus Christ to share our human life is a pivotal moment in the history of the world.  From the perspective of his birth, his life, his death and resurrection, we discover, in the Old Testament, signposts which point to Jesus, and we find parallels in the story of the Hebrew people which resonate with our own faith story.  Of huge significance is the Passover, God’s great saving act in delivering the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt and, through Moses, leading them towards the promised land.  It was Passover time when Jesus shared the Last Supper with his friends, and gave new meaning to the breaking of bread and pouring of wine, which he spoke of as his body and his blood.   Christians believe that through his death on a cross all may be delivered from slavery to sin and self and receive the gift of eternal life.  We, too, are on a journey towards our promised land.  We look back to the events of Holy Week, Good Friday and Easter, and we look forward to the day when Jesus Christ shall return and everything will be made new.

That’s a brief summary of the ‘big picture’. On a smaller, personal scale, the Christian year mirrors our own lives. The seasons of the Church’s year will not always coincide with how we feel.  For instance it is possible to be utterly dejected at Christmas and to be full of contentment and joy during the penitential season of Lent.  The point is that, during the Church’s year, all the highs and lows of human life are reflected, as indeed they are during public worship, which includes penitence and praise, prayers for those who suffer, and thanksgiving for God’s blessings. For those who have felt the anguish of Good Friday there will be great joy in celebrating the resurrection and the gift of new life on Easter Day.

With love and prayers a joyful and blessed Easter

Glynis Hetherington

FEBRUARY 2013 VOL.35 No.2

Dear Friends

February already, and we are well into another year.  Where do the years go?  I can scarcely believe that I have been in post as Rector of this Benefice for almost fourteen years. Prior to that I was in self-supporting ministry. Ron, my ‘other half’ has been a Reader in the Benefice for even longer.  Now the time has come to retire. By the time you receive this edition of Compass an announcement will have been made in all our churches.   We are both planning to retire from our respective ministries in the Benefice this coming summer.  Our final service will be held on Sunday 30^th June and more information about that will be given out nearer the time.

In Church ministry as in any walk of life there are many blessings and rewards, and some frustrations. One of the things I most enjoy is meeting so many delightful and interesting people of all ages in the church and the wider community. It has been a real joy to meet and get to know many of you. Sometimes that has come about through a happy occasion, such as a wedding or baptism.  I have also met many people through funeral ministry.  Sharing with people in times of sadness and trying to bring some comfort and hope into their situation is a huge privilege. I am acutely aware that the pain of separation can take a long time to heal, and people never stop missing the loved one they have been parted from by death, yet I dare to hope that God can use me and my colleagues to help people in the process of grieving and coming to terms with their loss.

People often turn to the Church at significant moments in their lives. Some people find that these events cause them to stop and think about what they truly believe, and some feel drawn to further exploration of the Christian faith.  Whenever I see someone coming to faith, or re-kindling the faith they once had, or growing in the faith they already have, that is most rewarding. The work of the Church is mission – that’s what we are called by Jesus to be doing.  He commanded his disciples (and that’s all of us who seek to follow his call and learn from him) to go into all the world and make disciples. I long to see more people becoming disciples of Jesus – but be warned!  Once you respond to the call to follow Jesus, you never know where he will lead you.  When I first committed my life to following Jesus I never for one moment thought that it would lead to ordination, let alone to becoming Rector here!

                                    With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington

 

JANUARY 2013 VOL. 35 No.1

Dear Friends

Halfway through the season of Christmas we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new.  Some people will be enjoying parties, while others won’t feel much like celebrating.  The year just ending has brought happiness for some and sadness for others, and for many there will have been a mixture of good and bad things.  Some will be facing the coming year with feelings of expectation and hope, while for others there will be anxieties about the future.

On 6^th January the Church enters the season of Epiphany, which follows on from Christmas.  We think on that date of the wise men who were led by a star to the infant Jesus.  We don’t know much about their journey, but Matthew’s Gospel tells us that they went first of all to the palace of King Herod, an understandable mistake since they were looking for a newborn king.  Yet this error led to tragedy when Herod, in his jealousy, ordered the massacre of innocent children. After the wise men had presented to Jesus their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, they were warned about Herod in a dream, and so they returned to their own country by another way.  Then an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and the holy family fled to Egypt until it was safe to return to their home in Nazareth.

The much loved story of Christmas and Epiphany has its dark side too, though the central message is of the Light of Christ, coming into the world and shining in the darkness.  The wise men were among the first people to see and recognise that light.  In the years to follow others would be drawn to the light and love they saw in Jesus.  His followers came to recognise that he was the Messiah, or Christ, whose coming had been foretold by prophets long ago.  These events happened 2000 years ago, yet today Christians still believe that the light and love of God that came into the world at Christmas can shine in our hearts and lives and bring us hope in our times of darkness.  In the Church we trace the story from Jesus’ birth, through to his ministry, his death and resurrection and ascension into heaven. He is our Saviour and Lord, and through the Holy Spirit we can know his presence with us always.  The wise men had a star to guide them on their journey.  We too need guidance and help, as we journey into the new year, and in our journey of life. All of us have a mixture of sorrows to bear and good things to celebrate.  If we put our faith and trust in God, through Jesus Christ, we can look back and give thanks for the blessings we have received, and we can face the future without fear.

Wishing you God’s blessing and peace in the coming year,

Glynis Hetherington

December 2012 Vol. 34. No. 12

Dear Friends

At this time of year lots of people attend carol services and concerts.  Some carols are played and sung every year.  Much as I love many traditional Christmas carols, I have other favourites which are less well known.  One of these is “God’s Surprise”.  We sing it to the tune “Scarlet Ribbons”.  The birth of Jesus is a surprise for a number of reasons.  In Bible times there was the expectation that God would send the Messiah (that’s a Hebrew word meaning “anointed” – the Greek equivalent is “Christ”).  First century Palestine was occupied by the Romans, and the Jews were anticipating a leader sent from God who would deliver them from their enemies.  There were various ideas about the kind of leader this would be, but a king who would lead them into battle was what many were looking for.  So the birth of a baby to a couple far from home, who found no room at the inn and who had to take shelter among the animals was not what they were expecting.

When that baby grew up he attracted followers, but upset many of the religious leaders, with all his talk of forgiving enemies and praying for those who hate us, not to mention healing people on the Sabbath.  The Roman rulers were upset too, because they feared Jesus would lead a revolution.  Jesus came to show a different way to be great, and to save us all, not from occupying armies but from the consequences of human sinfulness.  He came to bring about a revolution all right – a revolution in people’s hearts, to turn us right around from going our own way and to turn us back to God.  Some understood his message, but many missed the point – just as many failed to notice that God had come among human beings that first Christmas in the form of a tiny baby, wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.  Those who did see and believe were just a handful of shepherds who saw a vision of angels, and some wise men who followed a star.  I wonder how many people who celebrate Christmas this year will see the sign of God’s love in the baby in the manger, and receive him into their hearts and lives, and how many will miss the point.

To quote a couple of lines at the end of each verse of that carol, “God surprises earth with heaven, coming here on Christmas day.”  Are you ready to be surprised by God this Christmas?

With my love and prayers for a blessed and peaceful Christmas,

Glynis Hetherington

November 2012 Vol. 34 No. 11

Dear Friends

I asked some young people what they thought about when I said the name of their church.  There were some interesting responses including ‘the stained glass windows’, a favourite worship song, and ‘people going up to the altar for the bread and wine’.   The last answer led us into thinking what the Church really is – a building, what goes on in the building, or the people who use the building as a place to meet.  We went on to think about the Church as a family.  When I baptise an infant I talk to the parents about being born physically into a family, and baptism as a symbol of spiritual birth and being welcomed into the family of the Church.  Some families are close and meet often, so that warm and loving relationships grow and there is always help, support and encouragement and a deep level of commitment and sharing.  Family members are there for each other and from that secure family base each member can grow and flourish.

Other families don’t see much of each other and members drift apart.  I find that sad.  The same can happen with the Church family.  There are many who belong to the Church through baptism, yet who rarely meet with their Christian brothers and sisters for worship and prayer. The Parish Church is there to serve people in the community, whether or not they have any involvement in its life and worship, but some of our smaller congregations have concerns about how much longer they can fulfil that role. Maybe the Church of the future will be centred on the larger towns and villages. The faithful few in small villages might meet in one another’s homes, as happened in New Testament times.  Our relationships with God and each other are more important than buildings, and yet, if one day some small churches have to close, I wonder how many people will regret not sharing in the life of their Parish Church when they had the opportunity.

Staying connected to our families provides a network of friendship and support, and the same goes for the Church family.  In our individualistic society it is important to foster relationships and a sense of belonging.  Together as we grow in our relationships within the Church family we can also grow closer to God, helping one another in our quest to discover meaning and purpose for our lives.  For Christians, Jesus shows us what God is like, and demonstrates in his own life and teaching, and in his sacrificial death, God’s unconditional love and forgiveness. As children of the same heavenly Father it is important that we stay connected to each other.  Those who are already committed to meeting regularly would be delighted to welcome newcomers, or to welcome back members we haven’t seen for a while.

 

With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington

October 2012, Vol. 34 No. 10

Dear Friends

This summer there has been a lot of excitement over the Olympics, and more recently the Paralympics.  Those people I have spoken with who have attended these events have spoken of very efficient organisation, and of how friendly and good-natured everyone has been from members of the public to the officials and Police officers on duty.  How refreshing it is to have reports of events where vast crowds have gathered to share in something good.  We see so many ugly crowd scenes these days, and even occasions that start peacefully can too easily erupt into violence.  At the Games we have seen that it is possible for vast numbers of people to share together in a spirit of peace and friendship.

 Another aspect of the Games that has touched me was hearing athletes speak about their dedication and commitment to improving on their own personal best, and to achieving the highest standard they can in their chosen sport.  That attitude has been an inspiration to many.  The Paralympics have been especially inspiring in view of the obstacles faced by sports men and women with disabilities and their determination to reach their fullest potential.  Their high standards of achievement and their courage are an example to us all.  So many of us who are able bodied fail to appreciate the health and strength that we have.  Sometimes, though, when we are ill or are temporarily incapacitated by some kind of injury, we can begin to imagine what it must be like for those whose lives are a constant battle with discomfort, or who struggle to find a way of performing the simple routine tasks that other people carry out with ease.

 People are talking now about the legacy of the Olympics and Paralympics.  It is to be hoped that we can utilise the lessons learned about good organisation of events, and that we can harness the goodwill that has been generated.  Some have spoken of their hope that today’s children and young people will be inspired by these Games to strive to achieve the best they can in their own chosen sports. Among the athletes and sports people are some good role models, and young people need good role models.  Even those who are not particularly athletic or ‘sporty’ can perhaps be spurred on to practise whatever gifts and skills they have in other areas and to develop their own talents to the best of their ability.  Each one of us is a unique child of God with the potential to grow and become the person God created us to be.  May we all be inspired by the Olympics and Paralympics to develop our God given abilities and talents, not only for our own personal fulfilment, but also for the benefit of others.

 With my love and prayers

 Glynis Hetherington

September 2012 Vol. 34. No. 9

Dear Friends

I am writing this on return from a week at Horton on the Gower Peninsula – an area where I have enjoyed many holidays from childhood.  Over the years, firstly with my parents, and later with Ron and our sons, I have walked many stretches of the coastal paths and visited just about all the beaches. This year Ron and I set off on a walk we’ve done many times before, down through the Bishopston Valley to a bay called Pwll Du (which is Welsh for Black Pool).  It’s a few years since we last undertook this walk and when we came to a choice of paths through the woods we couldn’t remember which route we usually take. We made the wrong choice, and  found ourselves in the middle of the wood, tramping along an overgrown path, on the opposite side of the stream to where we wanted to be. 

We battled through brambles and nettles, scrambling under and over fallen tree trunks and squelching through deep mud in places, and eventually emerged, scratched, stung and muddy, on to a familiar track, leading to a most idyllic scene at the back of the bay.  Cattle were grazing near a ford in the stream, the sun was shining and the view was breathtaking.  We spied a bench, made of yew, and it seemed to beckon!  Time for a rest and a drink, we decided.  I don’t know how long that bench has been in place, but I don’t remember seeing it before.  We were surprised and delighted to see two inscriptions.  One, along the front edge, reads, “All this beauty is of God”, while carved into a corner on the seat are the words, “I will give you rest”.  It was a moment to thank God for the scene before us, the sunny day, and for emerging safely from our long trek through the woods.  It was also a reminder to give thanks for the rest that comes with a holiday. 

There are many kinds of rest, from the blessedness of sleep at the end of a  tiring day, or relaxation after exercise, to the rest that comes with the cessation of pain after illness, or recovery from injury, or the peace of mind that comes when a difficult situation is resolved.  For people going through troubles of various kinds it can be hard to find the rest we crave.  “I will give you rest” is a promise given by Jesus recorded in the Gospel according to Matthew, Chapter 11 verse 28.  Some of you will be familiar with this promise from the Comfortable Words which are included in the Prayer Book service of Holy Communion, and which may be used in the newer services.  Jesus invites those who carry heavy burdens to come to him so that, however difficult our journey through life may be, and whatever obstacles we face, we can find spiritual rest and peace in his presence.

With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington

August 2012 Vol. 34, No. 8

Dear Friends

“You don’t have to go to church to be a Christian.”  That’s been said many times, and there’s some truth in it because being a Christian is not first and foremost about going to church, and sometimes people who are not Christians like to come along to church services – all are welcome. Some people say that Christians are people who try to live honest lives, doing good and not hurting others.  Certainly Christians ought to live like that, but so should everybody else! There are people of other faiths and people with no religious beliefs who have high standards of honesty and integrity and who do good to others. There has to be something else that defines a Christian. A Christian is someone who believes in Jesus Christ. So is this just about believing that he lived and did wonderful things 2000 years ago? That’s part of it, but there is more.  Christians believe that the whole nature of God is revealed in Jesus, and that through Jesus we can have a personal relationship with God.  We can receive assurance that God loves us, accepts us and forgives our sins.

In the Gospels we read of Jesus calling people to follow him and he still calls people today.  The fishermen left their nets to follow Jesus and we are called to leave behind anything that gets in the way of our relationship with God in order to begin a new life with Jesus. A Christian is someone who has responded to that call, and who has accepted Jesus as their Saviour and Lord.  That doesn’t mean that Christians are better than other people and we are certainly not perfect!  It does mean that we are in the process of becoming the people God intends us to be, through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit at work in us.

Christian faith is not just about believing, but is also about belonging.  For some the belonging comes first, as they are brought to church from an early age and gradually grow in their understanding and their desire to follow Jesus. Other people may come to faith in Jesus from a non-church background, then go on to make a commitment and start to get involved in church life.  We are at different stages and this is why we need one another, so that we can encourage and help one another along the path of faith and discipleship.  Attending church services is part of that. We tend to speak of going to church, but Church with a capital ‘C’ is something we belong to rather than go to.  The Church is people, not a building. We are the Church – each one of us who has decided to follow Jesus.  So let’s get away from talking about going to church and speak instead of belonging to the Church.  We belong to the Church if we belong to Jesus Christ, and we belong together.  Jesus never meant his followers to go it alone. 

With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington

July 2012, Vol. 34 No. 7

Dear Friends

I hope you enjoyed the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.  Soon the focus of our attention will be the Olympic Games.   For those who have obtained tickets, I guess it will be great to share in the atmosphere of a live event; others will find it hard to prise themselves away from their television screens.  The sheer variety of events means that, whether or not we participate in sports or watch them regularly, there should be something to interest most people.  Even the least “sporty” among us can get caught up in the excitement as results are announced, and all can share in feelings of national pride when medals are awarded to our own Olympic teams.

Sometimes people say things like, “I wish I could run (or jump, or swim, etc.) like that”.  The same kind of comments are sometimes made by people watching a great actor, or listening to a brilliant musical recital, or seeing a gifted artist at work. For those who feel that their attainment levels have never reached more than average, there may be just a twinge of envy.  It can all look so effortless to us, but just think of all the hours of practice that are required to reach a high level of achievement (let alone Olympic standard). 

We can’t all be Olympic athletes or great performers, but each one of us has our own unique gifts.  Each year the Mothers’ Union has a theme. This year it is “Your Gift?  Discover and Celebrate”.  Christians believe that God gives different gifts to each one of us; it would not do if we were all alike.  St. Paul compares the Church to a body with many parts.  He says the Holy Spirit gives different gifts to members of the Church, so that each may contribute to the whole.  These gifts are not meant to be kept to ourselves, but shared so that all may work together, supporting and encouraging each other, as we try to do Christ’s work in the Church and in the world.   Like athletes, musicians, artists and actors, we need to practise, and to exercise our gifts from God so as to make the best use of them. However, it’s important to remember that, whether we are very talented, potential gold medallists, or nowhere near the same league, we are precious children of God, whose love for us is constant, irrespective of our achievements.

So as we enjoy the Olympic Games, could we also take a moment to think about and give thanks for our own unique gifts, and to encourage someone else whose gifts may be different from ours?  Discover, and celebrate your gifts, and think about how you can practise them and use them.

With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington

June 2012, Vol. 34, No. 6

Dear Friends

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is our second longest serving monarch after Queen Victoria, who reigned for 63 years.  In this year of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee many celebrations are taking place, especially this month.  The Coronation was on 2^nd June 1953, well over a year after the accession to the throne. Those of you who are around my age or older probably have memories of the Coronation. I recall a street party, with games, stalls, and a children’s tea, and I remember taking part in a fancy dress parade.  Like most children I received a coronation mug!  As time goes by, although we forget some things, certain occasions remain vivid in our memories. Even so, we may not remember the exact date of an event unless we can link it to something significant in our own lives.  The death of the Queen’s father, King George VI, happened on 6^th February 1952 and I find that date easy to remember because my brother was born the next day. 

The authors of the books of the Bible didn’t record actual dates, but sometimes they “placed” an event by relating it to something else.  For instance, Isaiah says that he had a vision of the Lord “in the year that King Uzziah died” (Isaiah 6:1). In the Old Testament some kings are described as having turned away from the Lord and are remembered as bad kings; others are held up as examples of good kingship.  It’s all very black and white, yet human nature is more complex than that.  David is remembered as a great king, yet he did some bad things in his time. However, David sought forgiveness, and by God’s grace he was able to put past sins behind him and go on to fulfil his calling from God.  All of us, kings, queens and ordinary citizens, stand in need of God’s forgiveness and this is freely given through Jesus Christ, our King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  We also need God’s strength for the tasks to which he calls us.

In her Christmas message in 1952 Queen Elizabeth II asked people to pray that God would give her wisdom and strength to carry out the promises that she would be making. In a radio broadcast on the evening of the Coronation the Queen referred to that and went on to say, "Throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust.” Many people believe that the Queen has fulfilled that pledge, and we are invited to express our appreciation of her 60 years of service to our Church and country, by signing the “Big Jubilee Thank you”. There will be an opportunity to do this in our parish churches during June. All letters will be combined and delivered to Her Majesty later in the year.

With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington

May 2012, Vol. 34 No. 5.

Dear Friends

During our Easter services, we heard once again the story of Mary Magdalene weeping at the empty tomb in the early morning while it was still dark.  She became aware of someone nearby and thought at first that it was the gardener, until he called her name. Then she knew it was Jesus, risen from the dead.  He told her not to hold on to him, because he must ascend to God the Father.  The Church celebrates the Ascension on Thursday 17^th May.  On Sunday 27^th May comes Pentecost (sometimes called Whitsun) when we give thanks for the gift of the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit came in a dramatic way to the first disciples, empowering them  to go out and spread the Gospel (Good News) of Jesus Christ.

These events happened a long time ago, but Christians believe that Jesus is with us always. Unlike the first disciples, we did not witness the crucifixion and the resurrection. In his earthly life Jesus could only be with a relatively small group of people, in a particular place and time in history.  Now, because he has ascended into heaven, he is with all who believe in him, in every time and place.  All Christians can claim the promise of the Holy Spirit to empower us to do the work to which God calls us and to spread the Good News of Jesus in our own time and place.

On Pentecost Sunday, we shall have with us The Right Reverend Paul Butler, Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham.  He will be in our area as part of his Prayer Walk around West Bingham Deanery.  Please see Benefice Notes for details. There will be one service at St. Mary’s, East Leake, for the whole Benefice. The Prayer Walk, however, is not primarily an occasion to visit churches. Bishop Paul will be doing what the first disciples did – getting out and about to meet people where they are. 

Some of us meet a lot of people in the course of our lives, whether we see them in the supermarket, on the street, at the school gate, in the workplace, or when we go out socially.  Though we should not try to force our religious views on others, there are lots of opportunities to talk about Jesus. I am often surprised and humbled by the interest shown in the Christian faith by people who don’t have a lot of connection with the Church.  Some of us are concerned that Christianity is being marginalised in our increasingly secular society.  It’s up to all of us who are believers to take the opportunities that come along to share our faith with those who are interested, but more than that to live our lives in a way that demonstrates the love, joy and peace which Jesus offers to us all.

                       

With my love and prayers

Glynis Hetherington