March 2009

VICAR: The Revd. Martin Fredriksen Tel: 694109

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

FROM THE VICAR: Some people say that time goes faster, the older we get. The problem that I have, is that there seems to be only a maximum of three days between Sundays! Saturday evening comes around far too quickly.

Part of the problem is that we have lost our sense of rhythm in our daily lives. One day just follows another without any break - a day off, a Sabbath rest, a special day for ourselves and families are things that past generations cherished. A religious significance was given to one day, following the pattern of the Creation Story in the Old Testament. Now, we don't have to plan ahead like we used to -; some shops and services are open twenty four hours round, seven days a week. Is it any wonder that, coupled with the current economic climate, people are stressed out and becoming stale?

Because of its association with the forty days of our Lord's fasting in the wilderness before beginning his ministry, one of the perceptions of Lent has been, that it is a time to give up certain things. The word 'Lent' comes from an old English word 'Lencten' meaning 'Spring' - and I am told, that there are similar words in other European languages. Spring is the season of new things and freshness - and so Lent should be the opportunity to experience new things in our Christian lives and within our families. It may mean that we have to give something up in order to make time and give space for the freshness to flourish.

In the early days of the Church, it was the whole Christian Family who spent Lent, fasting and supporting those who were preparing for Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion on Easter Day. It was something from which everyone benefitted.

Perhaps we should look towards restoring the rhythm of life over Lent. Giving up something to make space? Doing something that is new and refreshing? Doing something to help someone else less fortunate? Making space for others - particularly our families and friends?

How was it that the old hymn expressed it? -Take time to be holy!

Martin Fredriksen.

 

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