We began November by celebrating All Saints and remembering those we love but see no longer at our All Souls service. Last Sunday we remembered those who have died in conflict on Remembrance Sunday. Continuing this theme of remembrance and reflection we come, this week, to Safeguarding Sunday which is a moment in the Church’s calendar to reflect and recommit ourselves to making our churches safe places for all; to reflect on our safeguarding journey, and highlight all the good work that is being done to create safer places. Defending the rights of vulnerable people is integral to Christian faith and teaching.

Sadly, the church hasn’t always done this well. But, in recent years, huge progress has been made in taking responsibility for safeguarding in church and protecting the most vulnerable. Creating a safe church is not just one person’s responsibility but it falls upon all of us to be attentive to our surroundings and speak out when necessary in order to love and serve one another.

Rev Liz