Dear Friends,

This past week has been an important one in our Diocese. Last weekend saw Bishop Vivienne carry out her last tranche of ordinations before her retirement. This is a weekend always marked with joy as it is such a wondrous occasion, the passage of people, into their ministries. It is a time of transition-each person has had their period of discernment, training, and now they step forth into their next phase. Some to become deacons,to serve in their local churches. Others becoming priests. All stepping into the demanding but glorious calling of being servant leaders following in the footsteps of Christ.

For all the candidates it is a time of joy but also fear and excitement, but also of feelings of being totally unworthy of the task ahead.

I was blessed to be a part of this and greatly appreciate all the love and encouragement that I experienced from everyone during that weekend and look forward to serving you as priest.

All this is about love of God and one another, and the gospel reading this week exemplifies this. It is the familiar story of the Good Samaritan, reminding us that when someone needs help we do not filter that need through prejudices and suppositions but provide lavish love to whoever needs it. The story challenges us to reflect upon who has helped us in those desperate times in our lives and who have we been able to help in theirs? Just as it is so vital to offer help, it is also vital to receive help. This is to follow the example of Jesus, the servant king and Son of God.,

This Sunday 13th July Fourth Sunday after Trinity

8.00am Holy Communion - All Saints
10.00am Holy Communion - St. Marys
10.30am Family Service - All Saints
7.15pm Generations Youth Group - Vicarage

The Week Ahead

Monday 14th July 10.30am Tiny Tots - All Saints
Wednesday 16th July 9.00am Celtic Morning Prayers - All Saints
Wednesday 2.00am Benefice Bible Book Club - St. Marys
Thursday 17th July 10.00am Holy Communion - St. Marys Church
Friday 18th July 11.00am Living After Loss - St. Marys Church
Saturday 19th July 12.00am Saturday Lunches - St. Marys Church.

Next Sunday 20th July Fifth Sunday after Trinity

10.00am Holy Communion - St. Marys
10.30am Holy Communion - All Saints

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