October: Thoughts from Huw

Dear Friends,

Hoping that you are all safe and well and belated greetings to you at the beginning of this Methodist New Year.

October has arrived already and we are nearing the end of a very strange year indeed. Who would have dreamt when we celebrated New Year back in January that many churches would be closed and our nation, along with many others, would be falling quickly into a deep recession.? Not to mention the stress and upheaval of so much grief and pain. Sadly we have all been affected by the suffering and loss of life caused by Coronavirus. Things are not `normal` as we understand the word.

So many church buildings have been closed and remain so 7 months on. Thankfully here at Wesley we had a service last Sunday and plan to have another one with a harvest theme on 25th October at 3pm. We have had to find new ways to worship and stay in touch with each other. Equally outreach and mission is placing new challenges before us. These are daunting, yet also stimulating times for us, both as a gathered congregation and as individuals.

We know because of the Covid 19 regulations, our worship has been a little different. Numbers attending have been restricted, social distancing is enforced on the premises and no hugging or shaking of hands. Sadly we are not allowed to sing or enjoy fellowship over tea and coffee.

Strange times indeed and we can ask where God is in all the fear and confusion.? I am reminded of Isaiah`s words in Chapter 43 v18 and 19 `Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing.`

Let us pilgrimage on with hope and trust in our hearts for we stand on the brink of something new and challenging.

If you want someone to talk to or even to pray with, I am here for you and please get in touch with me.

With good wishes and prayers

Huw