Uttoxeter St Mary the Virgin

Living in unity and love

Dear Friends,

As Checkley’s July magazine combines with that of August, I am writing this August Area letter somewhat early!

At this point of time, we are being inundated with rainy weather but the odd ray of sunshine is appearing and, in spite of many troubling world events, I have just enjoyed watching the first event of the 2026 World Cup! Although I am not an avid football supporter, I do enjoy these world events, which show how countries can work together in mutual respect and tolerance, even while obviously sending their teams out there in the hope that they will outperform others!

Mega-events like the World Cup generate significant goodness by boosting local economies, fostering international unity, and driving transformative urban development. Other positive impacts of the tournament manifest in several key areas: Host nations experience substantial financial boosts through tourism, hospitality, and upgraded infrastructure. The event also creates thousands of temporary and permanent jobs. The tournament unites billions of fans worldwide, fostering a spirit of global harmony and providing a stage for diverse cultures to celebrate together. Such tournaments often leave a lasting legacy through grassroots programs. Initiatives like the FIFA Foundation use football to promote education, health awareness, and gender equality in disadvantaged communities.

While mega-events require massive upfront investment, their long-term benefits can deeply enrich the host societies. It must surely rejoice the heart of God to witness the cooperation fostered by such events, no matter which nation comes out top at the end of it all! They become a focal point for social interaction, as people gather to watch matches together, celebrate victories, and mourn defeats. Such communal experiences strengthen social bonds and create a sense of unity.

Before the crucifixion, Jesus famously prayed "that they may all be one" (John 17:21), as he prayed for his followers to be united, just as he and the Father are one.

As death was looming before him, the unity of his believers was foremost on his heart and he wanted that unity to be visible so that the world would know that he had come from the Father. And that desire for unity extends to us too as we deal with one another in all of our varied relationships- in our families, our workplaces, our social time, our differing Christian denominations, our relationships with those from other cultures and backgrounds.

I am sure, too, that we are all wishing The Revd Jules Walker all the very best as she leaves the Uttoxeter Area for her new post as Vocations Officer for lay and ordained callings. We thank her for her time here and wish her many fulfilling relationships as she seeks to encourage others to pursue their vocations across the diocese. Jules has said: “I am excited to be combining my commitment to both lay and ordained vocations, drawing on my experience of working in industry, leading lifelong learning and in fourteen years’ parish ministry. I deeply value exploring the varied ways God calls his people to ministry, have a love for encouraging theological learning, and I look forward to this new post with real joy and anticipation as these different experiences come together in one role.”

God be with you, Jules.

Peace and prayers,

Irene Smith

Uttoxeter St Mary the Virgin

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