Dear Friends in Christ,

This last week we have taken time to mark the 80th anniversary of VE day. It’s a time of celebration, nostalgia and sober reflection. The relief that was felt at the end of the European war inextricably linked to the reality of years of loss and suffering and a realisation that WWII was still raging.

Watching the special events on tv, I was especially moved by the last remaining survivors of the services as they reflected on what this meant, all of them now in their 90s and older-a sombre reminder that soon these events will pass from living memory. Their dignity, strength and decency were tangible, as was the sense of the loss of so much to the war.The plea for peace was framed with the awareness of ongoing conflicts, especially with the presence of Ukrainian troops. We need to remember, learn and reflect.

Where is God in war? Nations and leaders may invoke their version of God to support their side, but Jesus is not with them. He is with all the people caught up in war. Jesus suffers alongside us when we suffer, shares our pain, our grief., stands alongside, knowing what is like to suffer. Let us be inspired by God to see the image of Christ in all of humanity, in all its richness and diversity but especially alongside those who suffer in the wars that continue to bring pain and suffering.

Amen

Sunday 11th May Fourth Sunday of Easter

8.00am Holy Communion - All Saints
10.00am Holy Communion - St. Marys
10.30am Muddy Messy Church - All Saints

The Week Ahead

Monday 12th May 10.30am Tiny Tots - All Saints Link Room
Tuesday 13th May 10.30am Music 4 Tots - St. Marys Church
Wednesday 14th May. 9.00am Celtic Morning Prayer - All Saints Church
Thursday 15th May. 10.00am Holy Communion - St. Marys Church
Friday 16th May. 11am-12noon. Living after Loss - St. Marys, Church
Saturday 17th May. 12noon - 3.00pm. All Saints Spring Fayre - All Saints Community Hall
Saturday 17th May 12noon-1.30pm Saturday Lunches St. Marys Church

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all evermore. Amen

Blessings

Fr Kester de Oliveira