Reflecting on the saint after whom this cathedral church is named, Thomas Becket or St Thomas of Canterbury, is a humbling experience. How can we aspire to the holiness and bravery in the face of violent death that led to his speedy canonization? When considering Thomas’s example, there may be a sense, as the saying goes, of ‘Follow that!’ And yet this is exactly what we must do. Unless you were one of the original twelve, Christian discipleship always involves following on from others. And while it can be daunting, that sense of ‘standing on the shoulders of giants’ is also inspiring. If cleverer, braver and holier people than us have walked in the footsteps of Jesus, that can help us to appreciate the importance of the journey, and the need for us to do what only we can do (by God’s grace) in this generation
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The word angel comes from the Greek Angelo’s, meaning messenger. Angels play a role in most faith traditions and are believed to be messengers from God. Next Sunday evening is the feast of St Michael and all angels we have the Michaelmas carol service at 6.00pm. Do come along for some heavenly music, readings and reflection.
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While there can be little doubt that the country is very divided, and people are quick to make judgements about the motivations and integrity of those with whom they disagree, it is incumbent on the Christian community, to maintain relationships and communication, in a positive and generous spirit, with everyone, including those with whom we disagree. There are many people feeling lost and anxious at the moment, and it is in our gift to restrain ourselves from ensuring our view is clearly heard and to give space, time, and the gift of being listened to, to those for whom life is stressful and worrying. We are all lost sinners, and we are found only in repentance and in Christ, as today’s Gospel demonstrates.
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This summer, having seen a not insignificant birthday, I have spent some time enjoying some adventures as befits this moment. From a few days spent exploring Visby; yet another Scandinavian destination where Kitty is assumed to be a native and I a foreign side-kick. Thence to an Alpine adventure of mountain walking, paddle boarding and cycling as well as time for rest, recharging and relaxing.
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