The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer’ Psalm 18:2

It’s coming up to seven years since I became parish priest at Christ Church Stannington. As many of you know my role is only part-time – I also organise the curate training programme for the diocese which has increased significantly since I started. Because of this I’ve been asked to go full time in the curate training role which means I will unfortunately be standing down as priest in charge of Christ Church from September.  

I have very much enjoyed serving in this parish and I never cease to be amazed at the beauty of this place. It has been a privilege and delight to serve alongside such a gracious church family and kind community.

With regard to the next steps, there needs to be a discussion with our church council and our archdeacon – please can I encourage you to be praying about this.

There are changing times ahead for us all of us as we start to come out of lockdown. And change can be very unsettling, even good change – some are nervous about reopening facilities, others are fearful about their finances and jobs and as a church we are wondering what the future holds in terms of leadership.  

But the reality is life always involves change but as Christians we have the truth that in God we have One who never changes - who is always there for us, always to be relied upon and always there to guide us and be our strength. The psalm highlighted above refers to God as our Rock – our ultimate security and this brings us comfort and hope, especially in these uncertain times. 

Let’s focus our attention on Him each day as we face the future.

With love and God bless

Tim