Pam’s ponderings as we transition from interregnum to Revd Jane’s leadership.

These are exciting times - both as we reflect on and give thanks for interregnum opportunities and as we look to the future and how we move forward as individual disciples and church communities.

Thanks to each and every one who has stepped up and stepped in to make sure we offer services, services of worship in all 3 churches, services of care in our communities

Reflecting on my interim role, it has been such a joy and privilege. From the bottom of my heart I am so thankful for all the support and encouragement I have been given and grateful to have shared the ways all 3 churches have responded during the last 18 months. For those who don’t know the position of a retired priest with permission to officiate – PTO - everything we do is by invitation, the invitation of the incumbent or churchwardens when there isn’t one. Thank you for that invitation.

Amazing to see how people have mastered new skills to support church life and release priests to do what only they are ordained and authorised to do.

News and communication has blossomed with the active website, weekly newsletter and monthly magazine, using social media and putting posters and leaflets everywhere, including the gift of inspiring texts on postcards in each church.

Security of the churches has been provided by teams of key holders braving the elements to open up our sacred spaces and you would be surprised how many visitors appreciate that. Keyholders have provided havens of silence in a noisy world. What a ministry.

I, me and mine have been lost in the shared experiences of working together and WE have emerged with stronger teams, that in itself is a powerful witness to what church means.

Talents and time have been gifted to resource the maintenance of our traditions and the launch of some new activities. We have not stood still.

Indebted is how I feel towards Roy who has supported me to find the extra time that I wanted to give during the interregnum.

Open has to be our key attitude to how God will take his church, his people, into his future

Now we gather to support Revd Jane and listen for God’s voice in her words

My prayer is that, as we transition through the church season of Lent to Easter, we will come closer to The One who never changes in love, peace and grace, to the hope that is faith not religion. Amen