Dear brothers and sisters in Christ
It is striking how so much of our life is fashioned around the school terms and so we come to a moment in the year when many of us turn our minds to taking a break. So it is with a very end of term feel that I send this letter.
We have achieved much together this year and, while I am not blind to the challenges ahead of us as a diocese, I see much to encourage me. Seeing the large number of church wardens gathered in our cathedral for the visitation service. Ordaining so many sisters and brothers to the diaconate and priesthood. Talking to those who are exploring their call to serve at the LifeCall event. Confirming large number of candidates of all ages in many deaneries. All these bring be encouragement.
I am also heartened in two ways by the progress around Fit for Mission. Firstly, to see Church St Helens and Christ Our Hope grow and to see other deaneries at different stages in their discernment on whether Fit for Mission can support their missional intent. But secondly, I have seen this conversation working better with less them and us and more ways in which we can work together. This spirit is informing the plans which senior clergy and diocesan staff want to lay before synod in September as part of our conversation with the national church.
As I have visited parishes for confirmations, licensings, Sunday worship services and other events I have seen the faithful hard work that so many are doing to introduce people to Jesus and work for justice. And I feel blessed to be part of a diocese that is working in the long obedience of faith to bring God’s love to the communities they are called to serve.
I know it is hard work, I know at times it is frustrating, I know at times it feels thankless.
So I do two things now. Most importantly I thank you, and those who share your lives, for the work you do in the ministry God calls you to. The harvest is plenty and the rewards can be great but I know the sacrifices of those working across our diocese. And with my thanks comes my urge to rest. God modelled this for us in the creation story where we seem him labour and then rest on the day we call sabbath. The day Jesus said was made for us not for God. Made for us to renew, revitalise and refresh.
If you have holiday booked then I pray that it will give you the revitalisation you need. If you have nothing in your diary can I encourage you to make time to rest.
However you choose to spend the summer may you be renewed and may God bless you and be with you. Thank you for all you do as a good and faithful servant of Christ.
With my blessing
Bishop John