Being a vicar is quite an odd job (perhaps being quite an odd person is a help in that respect). I seem to find myself in all sorts of places, doing all sorts of things, from discussing church heating systems to blessing new homes, organising Maypole dancing and singing Carols in the pub…. it’s certainly not just Sunday services, baptisms, weddings and funerals!
One of the things I see as a central responsibility in the parishes I have been asked to serve- Broadheath, Grimley, Hallow and Holt, is building community, making connections, and doing what I can to strengthen our social fabric, so that we can all feel more connected to one another, and more confident that we are seen and valued. In fact, this is something all our church congregations are actively committed to: developing existing connections, or making new connections, with voluntary groups, schools, uniformed organisations, toddler groups, local shops, district and parish councillors, and so on.
We long for our communities to become places where everyone can feel safe, welcomed and included, given the opportunities they need to thrive and flourish. This is a central part of the good news God gives us to share.
At Easter, we celebrate the triumph of life over death- good things growing from sometimes difficult beginnings, the transformation of sorrow into joy, unexpected opportunities and new perspectives. We remember that Jesus said “I have come in order that you might have life—life in all its fullness”
and we want to be part of bringing that about here, in our little corner of Worcestershire. We all, churchgoing or not, have to be willing to work together if we are going to grow new things together, and open, honest communication will be essential.
For out part, in the West Worcester Beacon, we are committed to listening carefully and responding thoughtfully to anything you would like to share with us. That’s why we are beginning our series of community conversations- you will see some of the details elsewhere in the magazine this month. We would love to hear what you have to say- as a parent, business owner or community contact. Whether you think of yourself as a believer or not, we will have something to learn from you, and we would love to hear about what matters to you, and how you believe that the church community might best serve the wider community.
If you would like to know more, please contact us at beneficeadmin@westworcesterbeacon.org.uk
We look forward to getting to know you better!
Blessings
Revd Kalantha