The minister writes… from our September 2021 newsletter
Dear friends,
Well, it must be said that we haven’t had the fine weather we enjoyed last summer. The days have been overcast and there has been a lot of rain, which has made BBQs and picnics somewhat chancy affairs! Still, we needed the morale boost of the sunshine last year. THIS summer to cheer us we have the hopeful signs that the worst of the pandemic may be over. We are in a better and safer place. Though there are losses to remember and griefs to bear – especially, most recently, the deaths of our dear friends Hilary T and Colin J – there are also blessings to count and give thanks for: milestone birthdays and anniversaries for some of our church family, the birth of children and grandchildren, the joy of worshipping and singing once again in church and the opportunity to spend precious time with one another.
Despite our surname, Mike and I are not the greatest of gardeners but, as I type this, our garden is at its most colourful. The hydrangeas are heavy with big, blowsy blossoms of blue, pink and purple. They clash fantastically (as only nature can get away with!) the Rowan trees and the Montbretias, with their matching oranges above and below. I have never seen our Rowans so laden with berries. The birds will feast richly but I wonder if it augurs a hard winter – or is that just an old wives’ tale?
Those orange hues make me think of autumn which is just around the corner. This month heralds the start of the academic year and children smart in their uniforms – some excited at seeing friends again, some apprehensive at the thought of new classes or even new schools. After the interruptions to their education over the last 18 months we pray that they and their teachers will find continuity and reassuring routine during the coming one.
September also marks the start of the Methodist year and when you are part of any church (but maybe particularly so in Methodism!) this is the time for meetings – a mixed blessing perhaps, but a necessary part of church life. We couldn’t function without them, nor without those involved in them, who ensure the smooth-running of all that is connected with church. So, in your prayers this month, please remember those who give their time, energy and dedication in service to this church in all its business and outreach.
Wishing you all the glories of God’s creation this autumn – and a happy Methodist New Year!
Sharon
Image: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2018/09/26/17/39/rowanberries-3705162__340.jpg
