September 2008

 

Dear Friends

“ This is the day that the Lord has made – we will rejoice and be glad in it!”

So says the Psalmist (118,24), and this month surely we are singing this song too!  It’s about Harvest, and that annual celebration of God’s generous and creative goodness as we gather to say thank you, and commit again to share what we have for the good of others.

 

But it’s also set to be the note as we celebrate the official opening of the new building.  There are many highlights in September 2008, with so much going on (and so much to pray through together and personally, so we have produced a special prayer guide with daily focus points for the month.  But I think Saturday 6 September will be the No.1, and will live long in the memories of us all.  It is after all the end of a huge step of faith, and for many it has seemed a step beyond us, and yet – at least writing in faith a month ahead! – here we are!  Everything finished, and ready to be officially commissioned.

 

I recognise that for some the journey of the past few months has caused us to flag a little.  There is a team of dedicated people who have worked so hard during recent months as we have - and yes we are pleased to count our contractors as members of that team.  Indeed it will become strange not to see Stan on and around the premises every day.  For others it has been the sense of disruption to the familiar that has taken its toll, and yet we have undertaken this together.  I recall the unanimous church meeting in December, I remember the real excitement as the work began in March, and believe too that we will truly be “one in heart and voice” as we celebrate the opening with BBC presenter Pam Rhodes.

 

However if this is going to be a big day, truly a milestone in our life together, then let us remember that in this life we have never fully arrived.  There is of course Phase 2 ahead, or indeed more imminently the fitting out of the kitchen (and of course too the repayment of the interest-free loans we are so grateful to have received!!).

 

But it would be good to ensure our focus on not on the church premises themselves, but on what we are seeking to accomplish for God and for good though our buildings, especially as now the matter of unrestricted access for all has been addressed, and the long-awaited provision of better toilet facilities has been completed!  So surely too there is this song to sing about the great days that lie ahead as the Lord continues to inspire us to respond to his creativity, and as he calls us again each and all to follow Christ in worship and witness.  So then let us rejoice and be glad in them all!

 

With love and prayers in these thrilling days,

 

Andrew