Rector’s Letter

We recently had the pleasure of hosting a group of students from Cranmer Hall at St Michael and All Angels, who are training to become ordained ministers in the Church. These students joined us as part of their “Mission in Context” week, where they explored the ways in which our parish engages with God’s mission in Houghton-le-Spring. The day was structured around two aspects of God’s mission that we believe are integral to our community: ‘Responding to human need by loving service’ and ‘Challenging unjust structures.’

We began the day with a worship session, during which the students learned about the invaluable work of our Mothers Union in supporting baptism families, women in local prisons, and children in our schools. This showcased the many ways in which MU cares for our community and responded to human needs with love and compassion. The students then visited our Space4 Drop-in and Community Foodstore in the Kepier. These initiatives provided them with a glimpse of how we address human needs through loving service, whether through formal organisations or informal acts of kindness. We also discussed our commitment to challenging unjust structures in our community. This included sharing our work with
Tyne and Wear Citizens, which helps local people tackle the root causes of their challenges. As part of this we told them about the planning we’re doing for the upcoming youth assembly that we will be hosting in early July with local schools and our MP Bridget Philipson, the Education Secretary. To demonstrate the importance of fostering understanding between different segments of the community, we introduced the concept of a ‘weaving trust’ action. This approach facilitates conversations and builds trust among individuals from diverse backgrounds, exemplified by an upcoming event where we will bring together men from Houghton and members of the Bangladeshi Centre. The students expressed their gratitude for the valuable insights and inspiration they gained from their time with us. They shared how their experience challenged their perceptions of mission and emphasised the importance of engaging in God’s mission on a local level.

By sharing the work we do through the Mothers Union, the Space4 Project, and other initiatives, we were reminded of the significance of participating in God’s mission in the world. However, we must also remember that God’s mission is not limited to organised initiatives or large-scale projects. The mission of the church is lived out in the seemingly small actions of our daily lives. Each time we offer a kind word or perform a thoughtful act, we contribute to God’s loving presence in the world. When we challenge bigotry or speak out against injustice, we serve as agents of Christ’s transformative love. The simple act of sharing stories that bring hope and joy can make a significant difference in the lives of those around us. The ‘missio Dei,’ or God’s mission, is a calling for each of us to live out our faith through the choices we make and the love we share. In every act of kindness, every word of support, and every moment we choose to stand up for what is right, we embody the mission of God.

As we continue to engage in the work of our church and our community, let us remember that every action, no matter how seemingly small, contributes to the greater tapestry of God’s mission in the world. May we be empowered by the Holy Spirit to live out our faith in all aspects of our lives, contributing to a more compassionate, just, and loving world.

With my prayers and very best wishes