As summer holidays finish and everyone who attends school will soon begin a brand new year of exploration, learning and personal growth, it’s important to remember that each of us as human beings are meant to be ‘life-long learners’ - increasing our understanding, exploring possibilities, developing gifts and skills, trying things which are new for us, and learning with and from those around us! This autumn, our Benefice churches offer a variety of opportunities to help you grow and flourish as a life-long learner, including…… Opportunities to explore ‘questions of life’ and discover how Christian faith and discipleship give us unique resources for living life ‘to the full’. ALPHA (based in Alrewas) and Pilgrim (based in Fradley) are available for anyone hungry for ‘food for thought’ (and other refreshments too!).The Monday Afternoon Drop-in in Alrewas (2 to 4 pm at the Methodist Church, except Bank Holidays), and the Wednesday Welcome in St. Stephen’s Church Fradley (2 to 4 pm each Wednesday) offer everyone a warm welcome, tasty refreshments, and great opportunities to make new friends and learn from each other. Special interest groups are available in the benefice if you’d like to ‘have a go’ at handcrafts, singing in a choir, bell ringing (both hand bells and ‘big bells’ are available), participating in a Youth Fellowship………..and, of course, all three of our churches in Alrewas, Fradley and Wychnor offer regular opportunities to continue growing in faith, hope and love through a wide variety of worship services. You are most warmly welcome and invited to join in any opportunities we offer. If you need more information about any church events or groups, feel free to contact the Vicar (John Allan) or Associate Minister (Elizabeth Wall)
Refresh, Renew, Refocus……. Jesus gave of himself fully when he was on earth as God’s Son, bringing healing, liberation, strength and hope to vast numbers of people in his daily ministry, but he also knew the value – indeed, the necessity – of taking ‘time out’ for refreshment and recharging of one’s batteries, in order to be able to return to our daily ministries in work, home and community with renewed focus, energy and joy!In Mark’s Gospel (Chapter 6, vs. 30-32), after a particularly busy and exhausting time of serving others with his disciples, “Jesus said, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’ So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.’” So, what ‘floats your boat’, so to speak? What provides you with a genuine break from your usual stresses and strains? Some might find it in time with yourself reading a good book, having a long walk in a beautiful location, or even having a good long sleep! <span style="font-size: 1rem;">Others might find it in activities shared with family or friends, perhaps going away on holiday, having a BBQ or shared meal, or enjoying a new adventure together.</span>During August, I hope you and yours will take the opportunity to experience that much needed refreshment and renewal - you might even discover it in our churches in Alrewas, Fradley and Wychnor during our varied Sunday services, but also throughout the week, as each church building is open in August, with opportunities to find peace and quiet, refreshing coolness when temperatures soar, and a warm welcome for everyone!With every blessing, Vicar John
