This week has whizzed by and, as I am going to visit my son in London tomorrow, I am getting this weekly newsletter out a day earlier than normal. Much of the week has involved conversations about our children and youth work. It would be great if St. James could offer even more support for our local children, young people, and their families in a way that is nourishing and life-giving for all. We have great spaces in our church and hall. We have a great location with the farm, park and allotments next door. We have great relationships with local schools and charitable organisations. We are a bit short of money so I have started to apply for some grants that will support our work. We are not short of amazing people who could help out and support our work but I will need some concrete offers of help soon so some new initiatives can be launched. Please let me know if you would like to be involved in any way.

As we think about enabling children, young people, and families at St. James we are reminded that Jesus often stressed the importance of children and of becoming ‘like children’ when revealing the Kingdom of God. In Matthew 18:5 He says “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me”. It is often unhelpful to take a single bible verse, remove it from its wider context and then reach a conclusion on how to behave or what to believe. However, with any passage from scripture we are invited to use our own reason and to look at what the Holy Spirit is revealing through the wider church, and society, at this time. Shortly, I am meeting with Barrie and Helen from the Diocese to have one final chat (for this week at least!) about children and youth work. There is a real desire across our Diocese, and beyond, to engage with this new generation. Many of us in our 30’s to 60’s are from a generation that struggled to find connection and belonging in our local churches. With thanks to God, we are seeing that younger people are rediscovering a desire for faith, the sacred, and community. I hope you, like me, are excited at what we will see God doing in our church and community over the next few years. Let us pray and remain open to what God is doing and what God is calling us to do within His work.

As always, if you would like me to pray for, or have a conversation about anything then do get in touch. These colder months can be particularly hard for some of us and I am available to listen and share in whatever might be arising for you at this time.

"Nothing can separate us from the love of God revealed to us in Christ Jesus" Eph8:38-39

With peace and blessings,

Rev Steve

07503164309

[email protected]