A part of the Remembrance Sunday service we will use in St George’s Park is titled “Act of Commitment & Hope”. Hope can feel like a fragile thing these days. We look around and see headlines filled with conflict, hardship, and uncertainty. Yet as Christians, we are called to be people of hope. This is not because we can see how everything will work out, but because we trust in God who holds the future.Christian hope isn’t wishful thinking or blind optimism. It is the deep conviction that God is faithful and that even in the darkest moments, new life is possible. The cross was not the end of the story, and neither are the challenges of today’s world.Resurrection hope means believing that God is already at work bringing light out of shadow and purpose out of pain; just as was true in wars and conflicts past.As we look toward the future for our church, our community, and our world; let us pray that we may be renewed in hope. May we become, in word and deed, a people through whom others glimpse the steadfast love and faithfulness of God.Fr Simon
This week we turn our attention to a compelling parable from the Gospel of Luke: the story of the Pharisee and the tax collector, who go to the temple to pray.The Pharisee is a respected religious leader known for strict adherence to the law and boasts about his good deeds and looks down on others. however, the tax collector is often despised for working with the occupying Romans and perceived as a sinner by society, yet humbles himself and simply asks for God's mercy.This passage is a profound lesson on humility, repentance, and the true posture of the heart before almighty God.Rev Jassica
I have been watching a young man on social media who is trying to cycle from the UK to Australia. It is remarkable to see his daily updates as he continues to make his way country by country across the globe. The determination to get up again and get on his bike is a marvel, especially after a rough day cycling through torrential rain. I don’t know how many of us would have that level of grit and determination. Persistence is a virtue and much needed.Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow reminds us to “pray always and not lose heart.” The widow’s persistence moves an unjust judge who will not listen—how much more will our loving Father respond to His people? Prayer is not about persuading God but about strengthening our trust in Him. In a world that demands quick answers, Jesus calls us to patient, faithful, persistent prayer. His question remains: “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” May we, like the widow, persist in hope, confident that God hears and answers in His perfect time.Fr Simon
Next week, from Monday until Thursday, I have the privilege of going on a retreat at Mucknell Abbey in Worcestershire. It is an Anglican, Benedictine community of 11 monks and nuns, living together in a beautiful monastery deep in the countryside. Starting at 6am each day, there are seven ‘offices’ (services) in their simple chapel. Meals are taken together, but with no talking - just a member of the community reading from a book. Otherwise, the days are passed in silence. This silence is a gift, but it is also challenging. In silence and prayer, we are left with ourselves before God. This can be very exposing and demanding, as well as peace-filled and life-giving. I will be holding you all in prayer while I am there, as well as our mission together in service of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Please pray for me too.Rev Richard
