Dunsfold: St Mary & All Saints

William Wilberforce was born in Hull and was initially the MP for his home city before becoming the MP for Yorkshire and living in a rural parish near Ripon, North Yorkshire.

Here's a tribute written by the Reverend Paul Harford, the current rector of the parish where Wilberforce lived, as his local churches celebrate the great man's life.

"This week's readings remind us that the call to social justice to which William Wilberforce responded is one with roots deep in the scriptures. It's a theme that comes back again and again, as the picture of God's kingdom and his intention for the world is reflected on again and again. A kingdom of equality and justice, in which all are fed, cared for, and valued, and in which no petty notions of 'us or them' or borders get in the way of peaceful and fruitful co-existence.

"Sadly the reason it comes up again and again in scripture is not to rejoice in how good we are at bringing that world into being - but because again and again we need reminding of what it is we should be working towards, as again and again it seems humanity forgets itself, and drifts so very far from its purpose and true identity.

"It takes only a quick glance at the news to know that we still need these reminders - as war continues not only on Europe's borders, but also across the world in countries now forgotten by headlines; as prices rise and the gap between rich and poor stretches still further; as grain shortages mean the most impoverished grow hungrier still; and creation itself reflects back its suffering in record-setting highs...

"Yet in these moments these scriptures are there not to condemn us, but to remind us that things should be different - and that things can be different. And as we look back over history we discover that it is not still the same as it has always been. We can find moments of change, lives that have lived, or spoken, or acted differently, and changed the world. They remind us, in fact, that these scriptures are not hypothetical but describe a future historic reality - the way the world will be when God achieves his purposes.

"When we look at lives like those of William Wilberforce we find the reassurances that change is possible and is coming. We hear a voice raised against slavery, which, joined by others changed systems people thought immovable and eternal, and made the world a better place, conforming it more fully to its destiny as the kingdom of God, and establishing fundamental truths about what it means to be human.

"It can be done.

"So the question has to fall to us - listening to Isaiah, St. Paul, Jesus, and all the saints - and their drive towards making the reality now and not just in years to come - what are we going to do?

"Pause for prayer: Not everyone has the same calling from God to the same causes, so why not take some time to let your heart beat alongside his and see what yours might be? The next time you are encountering the news - be it written, or broadcast - pause just a moment to ask Him to draw your attention to the things he wants you to pray or do. Then continue to listen with that expectancy. Note anything that resonates with you, or stands out for you. Pray for that situation, that place - ask God's grace, mercy, and peace for it. Is there anything more you are being asked to do? As ever, do share your insights with a trusted companion for discernment together."

Reverend Paul Harford is the vicar of the United Benefice of Bishop Thornton, Burnt Yates, Markington, Ripley and South Stanley.

Dunsfold: St Mary & All Saints

ZOOM LINK TO SUNDAY'S SERVICE

PAYING TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM WILBERFORCE

WHY WE MUST PROTECT GOD'S ACRE

BISHOP'S BLOG FROM THE LAMBETH CONFERENCE