Sermon - June 2007

VICAR: The Revd. Martin Fredriksen Tel: 694109

PARISH OFFICE (Mondays to Fridays 9.30am – Noon) Tel: 697641

FROM THE VICAR: Every year, when preparing for the AGM, I know that things have been busy as always, but cannot think whether there is anything outstanding that ought to be written in my report - that is, until I turn over the pages in my diary! So much will have happened and the picture of God's generosity and goodness begins to unfold. The old hymn, 'Count your blessings, name them one by one .......................................... ' comes to mind. Our heavenly Father has greatly blessed us as a parish - despite our individual and collective blunders and shortcomings.

Personally, I find all the 'fresh expressions of Church' that we are being encouraged to explore, rather limp and tedious. The Gospel, with its implications and demands for daily living is infinitely more robust. A faith which makes sense of chaos, abuse, unfairness, hurt and all the rest, as well as the good things of life, is what I believe to be our deepest inward desire. If it does not have something positive to say about the really nasty things of life, then it is of little consequence.

It is always a privilege for me, to be invited to share with individuals and families at very personal times of their lives - to be party to tears of joy and of deep sorrow, of enthusiasm and laughter, when people begin to find their sense purpose in our Lord Jesus.

Fourteen adults were confirmed in February and Bishop John said that he would be pleased to come back to us again this year. Already, there are at least five who have asked for confirmation and I am about to arrange a date.

Twice in one year, is virtually unheard of - so do take advantage of the opportunity, at whatever age you may be. There are those who come regularly to Church - perhaps only at Midnight Mass, or more frequently over the year - who feel just a little embarrassed at not being able to receive Holy Communion. Now is your opportunity! - have a word with me before long.

Many have been very blessed by making this simple, yet important step in their lives - and our heavenly Father is extremely generous, as always.

Martin Fredriksen

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