Thoughts from The Vicarage with Pews News and Safeguarding
Greetings and please find dates, thoughts and a short prayer below with Pews News attached. Many congratulations to the reader who noticed last week’s typo – Midnight Mass will most definitely be at 11pm on Dec 24th!
Thank you to all who came along to our services and Acts of Remembrance last weekend and to all those who contributed in any way to those services.
You may, or indeed may not, have been following the news over the past few days. The Makin Review makes for extremely sad and harrowing reading. It’s deeply concerning. I am personally saddened by the perceived continued cover-ups and silences. Let us all continue to pray for the victims of the abuse which is outlined in the report and for all involved in the process. I also wanted to reassure you that the Valley churches give safeguarding the highest priority and attention. The Church of England designated November 17th as Safeguarding Sunday and we will be observing it. All are welcome as we reflect upon safeguarding of vulnerable children and adults as central to the gospel.
This year’s theme for Safeguarding Sunday is “let’s talk about it”. For some this will mean talking about what’s happened to them, for others it’s about talking about how to make the Church a safe refuge to find God, our shelter in the storm, and to find strength there to bring about change.
The readings all speak of finding safety, security and shelter in God amidst tumultuous times. All are welcome to any of our services.
These can be painful issues which continue to cause hurt and trauma to those who have been affected. If you think prayers for healing might help please do ask in confidence – similarly if you would like a quiet listening ear please simply ask me.
Please note communion will be at the two earlier services of 8am and 9.30am only.
And finally a prayer:
Loving God,
We lay before you the challenges that confront us at home, at work, in our communities and churches.
May your Son, the Good Shepherd, guide and shape the life of your Church that all may find a welcome, secure in your presence.
Amen
God bless,
Julie