Dear Friends,

It is a great joy to be writing my second letter from the Vicarage for St. John the Evangelist. We are now settling into our new home: rather than boxes everywhere, there are various piles of books, toys, plates etc. waiting to be found a home.

As we continue our journey together, as priest and people, I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard during the vacancy – churchwardens and all the others who have led services – and the whole host of people who have not only “kept things going” but have continued to bring vision and action to the Church’s ministry in the parish.

I am really grateful that I have been made to feel so welcome since I arrived in my new post as Vicar of St John’s. My licensing service in November was a very special occasion and one that I will remember very fondly. It was especially touching, as part of the service, to be formally welcomed by individuals on behalf of groups and organisations from the local communities.

Now a new chapter in the life of the parish is beginning and we wonder where God will take us.

I pray that as we get to know each other we will find ourselves listening not only to each other but also to God. I have valued your prayers for my family and I since the news of my appointment and I am confident that the prayer support will go on. I too have been praying for the parish, for all who live and work here and these prayers will continue.

I believe it will be as we pray together, as God’s people in this place, that we will grow together as a parish and so discover God’s will for us for the coming months and years ahead. There is so much I could say, but there is time enough in the future. For now, let me reiterate my joy at being here as part of this community.

I conclude with the words from my licensing service:

“In Christ alone our hope is found,?

he is our light, our strength, our song;?

this Cornerstone, this solid Ground,?

firm through the fiercest drought and storm. 

What heights of love, what depths of peace, 

when fears are stilled, when strivings cease! 

Our Comforter, our All in All,?

here in the love of Christ we stand”. 

Grace, mercy and peace be with you all.

Rev Julie