Dear Friends,
As I write this at the beginning of November, the move to Bakewell still seems some distance away! I very much wanted to be with you for Advent and Christmas (and I am grateful to the Bishop for recognizing the importance of this). The short period between the end of Trinity Sundays and the beginning of Advent is known as 'The Kingdom Season' when we focus on the signs and presence of God's kingdom here on earth - allowing us a glimpse and foretaste of the wonders of Heaven.
It is hard sometimes in the world images of war, suffering and hunger to see the presence of God's kingdom, yet is there in the compassion, tenderness and love of those who move to help, encourage and challenge. It is hard sometimes in the hustle and bustle of life to have time to contemplate God's presence in and around us, but He is there, strengthening, comforting and guiding us, calling us to bear witness to his desire for all to know justice and peace, unity and good will, truth and life.
The birth of any baby is hopefully a cause for great joy and thanksgiving. Despite the thousands of births that occur every day, every one of those births is individual and special. Doctors, mid-wives, ante-natal clinics, other mothers and books seek to prepare for the occasion in the build up to the 'delivery date', but the uniqueness of an individuals birth serves to reflect the uniqueness of a new life that is beginning, reflected in a child's distinct personality, character and appearance.
The season of Advent marks the beginning of the Church's new year, helps us to prepare for the unique birth of a Saviour, whose life and death continues to have a profound impact upon us as we contemplate his words and actions that speak to us of love, life, healing, peace and reconciliation. Advent looks not just to Christmas, but to the return of Our Lord at the end of time.
The birth of a baby is at the heart of Christmas, a birth that should be as fresh and exhilarating for us now, as when we first heard the account of it as we took our roles in a Nativity Play at school. The wonder, mystery and joy of Jesus' birth - a truly unique and distinctive moment in God's relationship with humanity - still has the power to make us stop and gaze upon the Nativity with thanksgiving in our heart. It really doesn't matter how many times we have sung the carols, read the Christmas readings and witnessed the enjoyable and sometimes funny nativity plays, for Christmas reminds us that God gave himself in Jesus Christ, so that we and all the people of the earth may know true and lasting peace, security and well-being.
Yes, there is still much to do before this can be a reality within people's lives, but if the message of the angels of peace on earth and goodwill among the peoples of the earth is relevant, then the birth of a Saviour calls us to continue to make sure that this vision becomes a reality. It is no coincidence that the feast of The Epiphany of Our Lord calls us to share the vision of God's peace within the world day in and day out, in our homes and families, within our schools, communities and work places, through positive and caring relationships, by being aware of other people's lives and situations.
The cards, presents, carols, trees, food and celebration of Christmas aid our celebration of the fact that Jesus' birth, life, words, actions and death have brought us God's peace, healing, forgiveness, justice and reconciliation. In thanksgiving, let us make our Christmas special and celebrate together by joining God's people at a Christmas service.
As Rachel and I prepare to leave, I would like to thank you for your love, care, support, friendship, enthusiasm and prayers over the last seven and a half years of ministry and service as a parish priest. It has been a real joy and privilege for me and I have enjoyed every minute. I must confess to a feeling of apprehension and uncertainty in the midst of sadness and thanksgiving, but we believe in a God who leaves us not comfortless or to our own devices. Whilst the future for all of us may appear uncertain in an ever changing world and church, we rejoice that God's love is unfailing.
Being positive, faithful, prayerful and trusting with vision, energy and enthusiasm will ensure that God's will and purpose for the life of His Church will be fulfilled.
Please pray for us as we will always pray for you all. God bless your Advent, Christmas and New Year, as we all work to bring peace, security and goodwill to God's world.
With Love and prayers,
Tony