VACANCY REFLECTION no.2

The former Archbishop of Canterbury William Temple once said "The Church is the only society that exists for the benefit of those who are not its members". How true that is! As members we are called to constantly think of those outside, seeking to persuade them to come in, but in any case having a care for our neighbours and our communities. If we are not outward-looking how can we claim to be in tune with the Gospel?

This is particularly tested during a vacancy, because we are required to do so much internal self-examination and reflection, discerning what kind of church we are and what we need our new incumbent to be, that it becomes far too easy to forget about those outside. This is particularly so in the time of Covid when opportunities to meet others is necessarily restricted.

However, we are keeping this in mind. The Ministry Team is looking for opportunities to continue to spread the Word and to be good neighbours to those who are not members of our church. We are not all-knowing, so if you have ideas, we would be very glad to receive them.

Graham Brack