September 2007

Dear Friends

 

I write as William has just left for the District Scout Camp at Lochearnhead, and what an adventure lies ahead for him and those with him during these next two weeks.  The thoroughly and carefully planned programme includes sailing, canoeing, mountain-biking and hill-walking, as well as more leisurely sightseeing and of course camp duties!  There’s so much in this expedition to enjoy, and much to challenge too no doubt! 

 

And this note of challenge in the face of new circumstances seems an appropriate note to take up (again?!) as the pace of church life quickens once more in September.  Challenges and opportunities abound as the “expedition” we share together in faith and as community continues.

 

For instance, September sees the re-start of Youth Group with a new team running the Sunday evening programme, and the launch of Breakfast Bar our project to provide breakfast to secondary school pupils.  Both are demanding opportunities worthy of the encouragement and support we can all offer, even if we can’t all take an active part.

 

We are also celebrating Harvest this month.  Traditionally there is a great note of thanksgiving at Harvest, and rightly so.  But as we recognise all that we have and that there are many who don’t enjoy so much, take the chance to give and share.  Why not bring some tinned and dried goods for the Herts Young Homeless Group and/or fresh produce for the North Herts Sanctuary? As usual too we are supporting Operation Agri’s Harvest Appeal with its focus on projects in India .  The challenges that we face can be quickly dwarfed by what others experience as daily life at home and abroad, and our Gospel responsibility is to do what we can to help.

 

But one of the key features of William’s expedition in Scotland as it begins for him is surely worth reflecting upon and underlining, and offering as encouragement to us all for this busy month.  Those Scouts and Explorers are in it all together.  Yes, there will be smaller groups for the various activity days, but each and everyone is part of the whole expedition.  No one is left out, no one is just there for the ride; each has a place to belong and a part to play.  And in the months running up there has been careful preparation both to build new relationships and try out new activities.

 

Friends, let that be true for us at WRBC in the midst of all we face in these days (and I’ve not even mentioned the building project!).  Let us be together, let us all be on board, let us all be playing our part, doing our bit, let us all be involved, even when it means building new relationships and trying new activities.  Then I truly believe for us all in this month and the months ahead, as well as for those away in Scotland for these few days, the continuing expedition will be not just challenging or daunting, but rewarding and even, let us pray, enjoyable!  Have a great month!

 

With my love and prayers, your pastor

 

 

Andrew