Rector’s Letter
As I write this letter in mid-January, the world around us is undergoing tremendous shifts and change. This morning, there is a cautious optimism in the wake of a tentative ceasefire in Gaza. We are beginning to hear echoes of relief, grief, and desperation from both Israelis and Palestinians. There is great uncertainty of the fragility of the ceasefire and the longer-term impact of events of the last 15 months following the 7th October attacks. I am unclear but hopeful and prayerful of how this situation will have developed by the time this letter is published. Meanwhile, we stand on the precipice of a new chapter in American history, as the US nation prepares for President Trump’s inauguration with the rest of the world looking nervously towards Washington. There is great trepidation internationally about the statements he has made about his intentions as well as the team he has assembled around him. He has promised a series of ‘shock and awe’ Executive Orders in his first days. We have no idea of the impact these may have for the U.S. their allies or the wider world.
At times of great change and uncertainty, I wonder how we might draw on our faith and support others to find firm foundations in the face of uncertainty, to see light where there may seem great darkness, to find hope in the face of great challenges. As Christians, can we live out our faith and make a difference in our corner of the world? Can we become beacons of hope for those around us, shining Christ’s light into the shadows of fear and doubt? I strongly believe (and see it in bounds in the people around me) that people of faith can make a huge difference and can take part in God’s transformative work in the world. I see many examples in the people of our churches sharing love, compassion, and peace, spreading the Gospel’s message of hope to those who need it most. I see this playing out in many ways and want to highlight and commend these as a way we can all navigate uncertain times:
Live out our faith and make a difference: Be the hands and feet of Christ in your community, reaching out to those in need, and sharing the Good News through our words and our actions.
Look out for glimmers of light and hope: Even amidst darkness, there are always signs of God’s presence and love. Seek out those moments of grace and joy and let them fill your heart with hope. Share those stories of hope to lift the hearts of friends and neighbours.
Remain hopeful, even when things seem hopeless: Remember that our ultimate hope lies not in the transitory events of this world, but in the eternal promises of God. Perhaps the words of St Teresa of Avila may speak to us at present: ‘Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you. All things are passing away: God never changes. Patience obtains all things. Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices.’
May we hold fast to the promises made to us in Christ Jesus, may we put our trust in God’s faithfulness and seek light, hope and transformation in uncertain times.
With my prayers and very best wishes