Dear Friends,

This week once again I am experiencing a double response to receiving (my second dose of) the Covid Vaccine. Again I have had flu like side effects and my energy is low this weekend, but again I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to receive it and to live in a country where this has been easily possible. I back all the statements made by religious and health leaders for the swift achievement of vaccine equity across or world. Christian Aid has a “Give thanks for your vaccine” appeal to support this, which Bishop Jackie is promoting: https://exeter.anglican.org/bishop-of-crediton-backs-calls-for-global-covid-19-vaccine-equity/

As this Trinity season invites us in to growth it is appropriate to reflect on the second aim in the diocesan vision, which is “growing disciples”. Disciples are those who learn, and for Christians that means those who learn from Jesus how to be Christ-like by following him, and draw others to do the same. We each grow in discipleship as we learn how to be more like Christ in the world that we live in, responding to its challenges with his guidance. This week the diocesan newsletter, Roots and Shoots, which I commend to you all to sign up includes lots of opportunities to learn more about Christian responses to issues around us in the world. Why not give some time to looking and learning about these:

https://mailchi.mp/f8736e497936/welcome-to-our-new-shoots-newsletter-4781026

Growing in prayer suggestion for this week:

There are still spaces along the coast to join South West Awake
The Church of England in Devon is joining other churches in the region in an attempt to have people praying along every mile of the whole South West Coast path on the same day at the same time. The socially distant “chain of prayer and praise” is on 19 June at 10.30am
Have a look at your area on the map and sign up to help complete the chain.

A reminder of services this weekend (13th June):

9am Martinhoe Holy Communion (BCP)

11am Lynton Holy Communion (Common Worship 1)

For June 20th:

9am Parracombe Morning worship (self led)

11am Lynton Holy Communion (Common Worship 1)

I will be taking a few days of annual leave next week (16th– 21st June)

God bless

Samantha