Dear Friends and Neighbours,
As we turn on the TV or radio, we are often struck by how difficult our world can be to live in. Distress, war, horror and despair can seem to be everywhere we look. In times gone by, religion has often been blamed as the cause of war; however, events over the past 100 years or so might suggest that the roots of conflict are more complex. There seems to be an internal drive for people to make mischief or to cause harm to others, perhaps through ambition, greed for wealth, or an inflated sense of one’s own importance. The Bible tells us that it has always been thus. Human beings have an incredible capacity to close our minds and hearts to the plight of others. Yet we also have an incredible ability to come alongside others, showing compassion and demonstrating resourcefulness. In the Church calendar, October is the time when we celebrate St Luke.
St Luke is said to have been a medical doctor and a careful record keeper. His account of the life and activity of Jesus became one of the four Gospels in the Bible. Luke is well loved for his passion and attention to detail regarding particular aspects of Jesus’ ministry, focusing on how Jesus brought healing and reconciliation to individuals and communities.
Luke records that Jesus’ ministry was inclusive. It was practised through humility and love, with a willingness to roll up one’s sleeves and reach out to anyone who was interested, anyone who desired a different way of experiencing life. Through Jesus, individuals were given a sense of hope and belonging. They developed a desire to be the change needed in their own community so that others might also receive the gift of grace.
This year, we will be holding a special service at the beautiful little church of St Moran at Lamorran. The service will include prayers for healing and oil for anointing. We will give thanks for those who work within health and social care professions. The service will be led by Bishop James on Sunday 18th October at 3pm, all are welcome.
I recommend car-sharing if at all possible, as parking can be limited.
Grace and peace,
Caroline
Rest day: Friday. Emails received on Friday and Saturday are unlikely to be responded to until Monday.
