Dear friends,
As I sit down to write this for May, it is lovely to see spring in full swing.
I hope you have been able to enjoy some of the lighter days and glimpses of sunshine, even with the rather mixed weather we have been having. One moment bright and warm, the next cool and wet, it does feel a little unpredictable at times.
And yet, in the midst of all that change, there is something comforting and familiar. The seasons turn, the weather shifts, life moves quickly, but God remains constant. The same yesterday, today, and forever. That quiet faithfulness of God gives us something firm to stand on, whatever the forecast may be.
Perhaps it is that very unpredictability that reminds us how important it is to care well for the world we have been given. The work of our Eco team is very much ongoing, as we continue to think carefully about how we live and act as stewards of God’s creation. As we plan events, we are asking questions about what we use and where we can make better choices. Small steps perhaps, but meaningful ones. Even something as simple as removing disposable wipes from our shopping lists, or choosing refurbished equipment when upgrading our sound system, helps us care for the world God has entrusted to us, and is good for our finances too.
I very much enjoyed all that we shared together over Easter, and I hope you were able to enjoy something of an Easter break. There was a real sense of life and hope in our gatherings, and it was good to share that together.
There is plenty to look forward to in the coming weeks. We will also be gathering for our Annual Church Meetings. This year we are trying something a little different, with a joint meeting between St Michaels and Ruishton, to be held on Sunday 17th May following Holy Communion at St Michaels. There will be cheese and wine to hopefully tempt you into staying, and it will be a chance to hear more about the life and work of our wonderful benefice.
As Holy Cross was unable to make that date, their meeting will be held separately at Holy Cross on Wednesday 13th May at 7pm.
We have also been able to support Ruishton Primary School in a very practical way, providing new chairs for their Year 6 pupils thanks to a very generous donation from an anonymous donor. It is a real joy to see that generosity making a difference, and we are also able to make use of the chairs for our breakfast service at the school. Do spread the word and come along. There is a warm welcome, along with croissants, tea, toast, and fruit too if you are looking for the healthier option.
Our next skittles and quiz evening will take place on Monday 19th May at the Ruishton Inn. Do keep an eye out for the sign-up sheets in church, or feel free to give me a call to book your place. Looking a little further ahead, our evenings at Thornfalcon begin again in June, alongside the usual rhythm of social events that bring us together.
We are also still looking to fill two important volunteer roles, a treasurer for Ruishton and a magazine editor. Please do speak to me if you feel you might be able to help.
As the seasons continue to change around us, may we take a moment to notice not only what is shifting, but also what endures. In a world that can feel uncertain, we are held by a God who does not change, whose love is constant, and whose invitation remains the same.
With all blessings,
Lee