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 'Maureen's Musings'
June 2011
I feel a mixture of sad and happy as I sit down to write
this.
Happy - because after a very intense week interviewing and writing
reports on some excellent candidates for Ordained Ministry, I
am due to leave tomorrow for a week's holiday in Switzerland!
No jokes about cuckoo clocks and Toblerone PLEASE! I find these
days that holidays are great in the planning and booking phase.
Then comes the bit trying to make sure you have all the right
clothes you might possibly want (quite good, that bit). Then
comes the bit when you try to make sure you have done all the
work necessary to provide proper cover while away and suddenly
remember another piece of work that has to be done at the last
minute (like writing for the Parish Magazine!) THEN comes the
packing (***!**!**! )
At this point I begin to wonder whether it is all worthwhile?
.... but I know once I am on the train bound for London I shall
begin to enjoy it.
Sad - because I have to report that after many years of faithful
and outstanding service to St Chad's, Mary and Alan have decided
that from the end of this month they must retire as Vergers for
our church. They will be a hard act to follow - but if there
is anyone out there who feels they might be able to take on the
much needed post of being keeper of the keys and all-round Vicar's
Treasure, please let me know as soon as possible. Alan and Mary
will continue to be members of our congregation - I hope for
many years to come - and I am sure we will find a suitable time
and opportunity to thank them and make a proper farewell to them
in their respective roles.
I also feel quite inspired after today's Clergy Conference for
the Wolverhampton Area - held in the Science Park - (what a good
facility that is). Thinking about the theme "your kingdom
come" we had short presentations from several parishes and
churches, highlighting the excellent community-based things that
are going on - in both town and country. Churches getting involved
where there is need. Acting out the love of God in Christ in
practical and joyful ways. Building bridges in communities and
between faith groups, and through it all strengthening the work
of God's Church. His kingdom truly is all around - you just have
to open your eyes and look!
We hope to have our own small contribution to the kingdom getting
underway this summer - probably after the Summer Fete at the
beginning of July. We are planning to start a monthly group for
people of any age who have suffered loss or bereavement - whether
recent or not. They will meet over a cup of tea or coffee and
have an opportunity to talk to others who can understand something
of the pain and grief that remains when we lose a loved-one.
But I am sure the conversation will have more laughs than tears
as memories are shared and new friends made. Look out for the
notice elsewhere in this magazine.
Right! Time to get back to the packing.... where did I put that
kitchen sink?
Maureen
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