Rector’s Letter
As we approach the beginning of Lent, we find ourselves entering a season that, I think, is often misunderstood. While many see Lent primarily as a time of “giving up” or solemnity, the church calendar offers it to us as something much more vital: a period of spiritual renewal, a chance to develop habits that help us grow as disciples of Christ, ultimately a chance to help us grow in our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This year, we want to develop and build on our Advent and Christmas focus on the meaning of ‘Joy’ in a world that often feels it could do with a bigger dose of joy! We also want to support people whether they are new to faith or have been members of the church for many years to develop a “rhythm of life.” Just as the seasons of nature follow a pattern, our spiritual lives flourish when we commit to habits and patterns that draw us closer to God’s saving love. To help us on our journey of faith, we’re offering a variety of opportunities for everyone in our parish to explore, reflect, and grow.
Building on our reflections during Advent and Christmas, our Lent course this year is “The Joy of the Gospel.” Based on Paula Gooder’s book and the acclaimed reflections of Pope Francis in his publication ‘Evangelii Gaudium’, we will explore how we might share our faith through both words and actions. In a world that often feels heavy, we want to offer a positive and realistic approach to Christian joy. The course is open to everyone—whether you are new to faith, just exploring, or have been a part of the church for many years. We will meet on Wednesdays in Lent from 7:00–8:30 p.m. at the Space4 Hub on Newbottle Street beginning of the 25th Feb for 5 weeks.
For daily reflection, we are recommending the book “Draw Near: Life-Giving Habits for Lent.” This resource focuses on the “rhythm of life” that helps us grow day by day as we prepare for the mystery of Easter. If you would like a copy, please contact the Parish Office, and we can arrange to buy one for you (for the small cost of £3). I am delighted that our church children and families will be joining us in this journey with a parallel 40-day challenge, exploring the life-giving habit of generosity. It is a wonderful way for our whole church family, young and old, to move together in faith.
Retreat Days at Brancepeth Castle: Sometimes, spiritual growth requires us to step away from the busyness of daily life. Reverend Claire Cullingworth is leading two retreat days at Brancepeth Castle as part of their ‘Community of the Well’ programme: 21st Feb: “Finding God in Threads and Patches”; 21st March: “Creative Prayer for Beginners”. These retreat days are run by the Castle at a cost of £40 – you can find more information and book your place at http://community-of-the-well.uk. (Let us know in the office if we can help you in contacting them).
As we enter this holy season, my prayer is that we don’t just “endure” Lent, but that we embrace it. May these coming weeks be a time where we all find ways to open our hearts to God’s transformative love, to experience the Joy of the Gospel and to discover a rhythm that sustains us long after Easter Sunday has passed.
With my prayers and very best wishes.
