Starting a conversation...
Today marks the end of all legal Covid-19 restrictions in England. This will come with mixed emotions: relief, and delight at 'getting back to normal', and also anxiety especially for those who are more clinically vulnerable, and concern that it's just too soon.
So, what's the plan at St Francis? I'm aware both of the very real concerns, and the fact that in the surrounding community that we're here to serve, there's less mask-wearing and distancing.
We need to start talking about what our response will be and how we can best care for and respect each other.
Specifically, we'll discuss at council on March 9th and let you know after that. Possibilities include having a designated area in church for those who prefer to keep wearing masks and only wearing them to sing. We will keep the building well ventilated in any case, and that will get easier as the weather improves. The aim will be to give options that enable us to worship together, whilst staying in touch with the community we serve. I'd love to hear your views - please contact myself or the wardens - ideally by email (see p10).
Pray for Ukraine
A prayer for Ukraine from the Methodist Church:
Holy and Gracious God
We pray for the people of the Ukraine and the people of Russia; for their countries and their leaders.
We pray for all those who are afraid; that your everlasting arms hold them in this time of great fear.
We pray for all those who have the power over life and death; that they will choose for all people life, and life in all its fullness.
We pray for those who choose war; that they will remember that you direct your people to turn our swords into ploughshares and seek for peace.
We pray for leaders on the world stage; that they are inspired by the wisdom and courage of Christ.
Above all, Lord, today we pray for peace for Ukraine.
And we ask this in the name of your blessed Son.
Lord have mercy. Amen.
The rest of the newsletter is here: Newsletter 240222
