February 2012
This is the first letter of 2012, so I would like to begin by wishing you a Happy New Year. A new year is a good opportunity to look forward and set some goals for the year ahead. We have just had the week of prayer for Christian unity, and enjoyed joining with our Methodist brothers and sisters at Mount Road Chapel for their Covenant Service. It was a very appropriate time to renew our commitment to follow Jesus and to do it together.

Not all modern trends are helpful, but I am very encouraged that Christians of different denominations are doing more together. In Stanley we are planning more joint services. The next one will be on Palm Sunday when we will begin the service at the Methodist church, then walk down with our palm crosses and finish at St Peter’s. It worked really well last year and we hope for a good turn out again.

In the last week of January I will be going to be chaplain to the English speaking church in Wengen, Switzerland, for 2 weeks. It is run by the Intercontinental Church Society, which does work in Europe, North Africa and the Falkland Islands. I will be serving the local congregation, and visiting tourists and resort workers. A time away on holiday is often a time when people can give space to thinking through big life issues. I would appreciate your prayers that I will be used helpfully during this time.

We have booked Bishop Tony to come to us for a Confirmation Service on Sunday 3rd June. This service is when we make our first full public commitment to Christ. The lead up to this service is a good time for people who would like to explore their beliefs further to ask questions and perhaps join in discussion about it.

As we approach Lent, it is another good time to meet with others and deepen our relationship with God. Lent starts on 22nd February this year, and we are planning to run some ecumenical groups. Do let us know if you are interested in joining a group to prepare for confirmation or for Lent.