"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

After the Festivals of Ascension Day, Pentecost, and our Benefice Service on Trinity Sunday –– June seems a rather quiet month. As the weather, hopefully, becomes warmer, our thoughts may turn to summer holidays. However, in these uncertain times many people are anxious about the future – energy costs, possible shortages and increasing prices in the shops. It’s a time, too, when children and young people often face exams with the prospect of moving on to other schools, college, university or the workplace.

The idea of change can feel exciting - but it can also feel daunting and unsettling. When change happens around us, when we are confronted with the suffering caused by war and injustice in our world, we can feel powerless to bring about the change we desire. It’s at such times that, instead of being overwhelmed by anxiety, we can turn to prayer. Through prayer, we can find peace in the midst of our concerns. Prayer has power to change things – to change us - and to bring renewed hope.

Bishop Tim of Wolverhampton ended his Pastoral Letter for May with these words:

“So let us not be overwhelmed by the times. Let us be found in the upper room: prayerful, united, and expectant. The same Lord who ascended still reigns, and the same Spirit who came at Pentecost still empowers the Church.”

On Saturday 6th June, 10am – 4pm, we shall be holding a Day of Prayer, at St Swithun’s, Cheswardine. As a Benefice, since our last day of prayer, we have experienced change, particularly through the departure of Rev Becky. As we did last year, we shall be praying for younger generations as well as for the appointment of our new Team Rector and looking ahead to recruiting a Team Vicar and Families Worker.

Those people who became followers of Christ at Pentecost continued to meet together to pray. May we be encouraged to follow their example; to pray expectantly, guided by the Holy Spirit and trusting in our loving God who still hears and answers our prayers.

Rev Chris Simpson