Moving On!
March 2007 has been a significant month in the life of both our Diocese and our Parish. On March 3rd a Celebration of Wholeness and Healing was held in the Cathedral followed on 10th March by a Diocesan Assembly in which a vision was received of what the Church faces in the 21st. Century if we are to be Channels of Blessing to others as I believe we are ALL commissioned to be as Christians
I am sure that all those who attended the Celebration were touched by the address by the Sister from Helen House, the world-famous hospice in Oxford, followed by many workshops dealing all sorts of practical ministry for which volunteers are always required. These were followed in the afternoon by the Service itself - the music, the Laying-On of Hands and the Eucharist were truly inspiring and memorable.
We have subsequently had a visit here from Rev. Judith Pollinger of the Bishop's Group for the Ministry of Healing and we have started a monthly Service of Wholeness and Healing in our Church on the first Sunday evening of each month which complements the Prayer Ministry we already have. It is a vital ministry - my parents were badly affected for over 20 years following a car accident and so I know that simply dealing with pain, disability and immobility can be enough to strain the strongest will, whilst the resources of carers can also be fully stretched even for the fittest. There is also the isolation ("out of sight, out of mind"?) which often adds to the burden of simply trying to cope.
The Assembly itself moved on from a similar one in 2001 in which the Diocese began to address the issues facing the Church generally and the Diocese in particular at the threshold of the Millennium. These and current challenges were set out in a book by Bishop Bill - "MOVING ON - The People of God Journeying On" - which is not only a thoughtful retrospect but a forward vision. The Assembly was addressed by speakers - as well as dancers and drummers! - of what has to be addressed and the resources to approach this. So often challenge brings out the best in people - and that is what is required of every Christian in their Great Commission, I do believe. Everybody in whatever circumstance they find themselves - no less than the best! I urge you to read, mark and inwardly digest the thoughts of Dr. Stephen Dawes in the central feature of this issue of OUTLOOK - this is one issue in which we ALL have a role to play.
By the way, don't blame me for the catchy headline of this central feature - I cheerfully accord full credit to Bishop Bill himself!