Welcome to Spring! Its been good to be able to get out in the sun and have a (covid) walk!
Its also been good having a few hours in the garden. Spring is here with its promise of new life and more warmth and points us towards summer. But in all that we must remember covid and its threat. So let’s enjoy the sun and the warmth and the garden but keep the rules and keep safe.
It was also good to see so many people at last Sunday’s Zoom Service. We estimated there must have been over a hundred – one of the biggest congregations we have had all year! My thanks to all who took part and especially to Anne, Michael, Jenny, John and Jennifer for sharing the stories and symbols that are so important to them. Their contributions were poignant, meaningful and very personal; and were gifts to the rest of us. It takes courage to share something important with other people – especially when they are at a distance on Zoom. So thank you once again for the gifts you gave us last Sunday morning. By sharing their stories they also triggered memories for others. When Anne spoke of her son David it brought back memories of our son David who died twenty one years ago. A number of people have sent me e-mails sharing some of those memories that were triggered on Sunday. Thank you, they are very special gifts – and they triggered more memories for me.
In these days when we can feel isolated the Zoom services and the sharing of stories and memories through e-mails is a way of keeping us connected. I can’t help thinking that we get to know each other so much better as we take the risk of being warm and open and sharing. Its one way of experiencing something of the love of God. I finish with the last verse of one of my favourite hymns:
Now be aware that hearts and hands
and minds are rich when sharing;
for here within this fellowship
the strength of God is growing.
Now life has reason, love has powers
beyond our own, for into ours
the love of God is flowing.
Take care. Look after yourselves and each other.
See you on Sunday.
Shalom
Jim
PS If one of the stories from last Sunday touched you deeply – why not phone or e-mail the person who told the story and express appreciation.
To view the full e-news click here: https://mailchi.mp/ae9899704f16/this-weeks-newsletter-from-st-andrews-on-the-terrace-4779922
