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‘Maureen’s Musings’
The Vicar’s monthly letter for the Parish News
April 2018
Pattingham; Burnhill Green; Rudge; – Caring communities?
I think most of our parishioners would take pride in the caring and compassionate nature of our communities. I certainly have been witness to – and on the receiving end – of much kindness and practical help. But I wonder if that is the experience of all?
Within our church congregation we try to make sure that anyone in need or feeling a bit vulnerable is looked after and that a hand of friendship is offered. When we know about the need of course.
When the “Who’s for lunch?” monthly gatherings started up last year we were not sure how they would be received… Experience has told us that they are answering – at least in part – a very real need. Not so much that people need feeding (although the delicious food on offer is very much appreciated); but what they really need are opportunities to come together in a pleasant environment and enjoy one another’s company. Friendly faces and an hour or two of conversation – a few laughs – and perhaps to catch up on the local news.
Like many vicars, I find that I am often assumed to know that such and such a person or family is in trouble or has some sort of need. Sometimes I do, but I never mind being told again – because more often than not I have no idea…. Not unless someone tells me! I may not be able to do very much – but I may know others who can and would if only they knew…
Very recently I was told of someone a while ago who suffered an injury and felt that the village had failed to offer any kind of communal response or support. That is very sad, but I think it reflects that some people among us live very isolated lives. So please – if you become aware of a neighbour becoming housebound, or in some other kind of need… don’t keep it to yourself. Let me or Ken or one of the churchwardens know and we will do what we can to offer help or at the very least a listening ear.
And if you think of something that the church might be able to help with – please let us know. Soon we will be trying to make sure that everyone in our communities receives news of the Holy Week and Easter Services, and one of our leaflets letting you know something of our on-going plans and thoughts for the future of St Chad’s. I am really excited by the ideas and plans that are starting to flow – but I am sure there are many other ideas out there in the community for ways we could get involved. As I was reminded recently when speaking with some of our wonderful young people preparing for confirmation, the ancient but lovely prayer of St Teresa of Avila;
Christ has no body but ours,
No hands, no feet on earth but ours,
Ours are the eyes with which he looks
Compassion on this world,
Ours are the feet with which he walks to do good,
Ours are the hands, with which he blesses all the world.
Ours are the hands, ours are the feet,
Ours are the eyes, we are his body.
Christ has no body now but ours,
Amen.
Not bad for a Spanish Nun writing in the 16th Century – and just as relevant today.
Let’s make all our communities caring communities!
Every Blessing – and Happy Easter!
Maureen.