The Vicar Calls

 

This was a novel experience having spent the previous 38 years being the one who called on others. Now having retired to a new home and town we have attended St Hugh’s almost from day one. So we were pleased that Anita asked if she could call. A reminder to me of the hundreds of houses I have entered as you take that first step on a new relationship. Over the years it has often been the pastoral visit that keeps you going amidst all the busyness of church life. Yet as the years pass living in a place, and so getting caught up in various groups etc, it is the visiting that often diminishes. You don't intend that to be the case especially when you know that at the heart of church life it is about relationships. 

So on a Friday afternoon after Anita had been at St Hugh's, which offers a  warm space to people in the community, she called on us. It was clear to us from worship that Anita has a gracious people focussed ministry. Keen to make sure people are included and not rushed or pushed into anything. I would say she has a deep pastoral heart for people and reminds me so much of a former colleague Liz. So we shared a bit about ourselves in the full confidence that Anita would hold that information, as she also in turn shared part of who she is. She was keen to make sure I didn't feel excluded by not being asked to do things. I was glad to be able to reiterate that at present its going to be a full year off, but happy to do coffee on Sundays and set up the church! Jill was happy to offer to read prayers and readings. And yes she offered to pray for us before she moved on. It was so good to be ministered to and not have to be the one in that role. Many a person said I wouldn't be able to help myself and that I would end up doing things. Well so far no. In this I do know myself. I am getting refreshed and await to see what new thing I may become part of. It helps of course that we are worshipping in an Anglican church. The pressure to do things might have been more if we were in a Methodist chapel. Mind you I'd still say no.

So the Vicar came and it was  a delight to get to know her a bit more and we look forward to supporting her in the coming weeks and months. Trusting that our friendship will thrive.

Father, Son and Holy Spirit

one in perfect community

thank you for the 

faith community

we find ourselves apart of.

We pray                                              

that as we continue

to journey together,

you will reveal afresh

how we might serve you

and one another.

Bless all those 

in leadership

of your church,

that they might be guided

by your deep Love,

be courageous in decisions

and sustained by your presence. Amen     (c) Mark Goodhand 1st December 2022