Thought for the Week: New Beginning – 4th September 2026

As I write this on 1 September, I reflect on what many of us think of as the start of the year. Alternatively, we may just think of it as the end of the holiday season. September is actually the start of the ‘school year’ or the for others the ‘academic year’. But when we think of the start of the year others may disagree and point to the start of the calendar year in January, or the financial year in April. As Christians (particularly in the Church of England) the liturgical year starts with Advent, which we normally associate with December, but actually November would be more accurate. However, the Orthodox church also looks to September as the start of their liturgical year.

This September, we also see the start of a new pattern of worship across our community of churches. As a Churches Leadership Team, we were conscious of the need to support each of our churches but were not in a position to deliver a service at every church every Sunday. Fundamental to our new pattern, is the desire to offer at least one 9am and 10.30am Holy Communion Service on a Sunday morning alongside the 10.30am Oasis contemporary service. We also committed to a range of other services on a Sunday and the midweek Holy Communion service. It is planned that our Licensed Lay Ministers will be able to contribute to all services across the communities, so we can get to know all the different communities we serve.

However, shared responsibility in ministry requires the collaborative effort among believers to fulfil the mission and work of the Church. This concept is rooted in the understanding that the Church is the Body of Christ, with each member playing a vital role in its function and growth. By embracing shared responsibility, the Church can better reflect the unity and diversity of the Body of Christ, as each member fulfils their God-given role in the ministry.

The New Testament provides numerous examples and teachings that emphasise the importance of shared responsibility, highlighting the diverse gifts and roles within the Christian community. I therefore encourage you, as members of our communities, to use your spiritual gifts, as described in Romans 12:6-8, to serve one another and contribute to the Church's mission. This approach fosters a sense of community and accountability, ensuring that the work of the Church is carried out effectively and efficiently.

Alan Johnston (Licensed Lay Minister)