This week's Ministers' Letter

 Dear Friends,

About forty-five of us gathered on Zoom for Sunday’s AGM and March Church Meeting.  It was good to hear both the Secretary’s and Treasurer’s updates, confirm Liz and Kevin as Assistant Elders and express our gratitude to Anne, Hazel and Margaret as they retire from the Eldership.

We are busy putting services together for Holy Week and these will be as follows:
MAUNDY THURSDAY: An Audio Communion Service shared with St John’s
GOOD FRIDAY: 10.30am Devotional Service at AFC and an Audio Service (The Walk of Witness is cancelled)
EASTER DAY: 10.30am Holy Communion at the 10.30am Service at AFC and an Audio Service.

From Easter Day, under the provision of the outdoor Rule of Six, limited fellowship in small groups will be possible in the car park.  I know this will be much appreciated and that people will linger for some time in conversation rather than rush home.  For that reason, this Sunday’s After Church Zoom Fellowship will be the final one for the time being.  We have benefitted from these Zoom gatherings and are grateful for the opportunities they have given us, but it’s also good that, bit by bit, we can re-introduce a degree of in person fellowship.

We are pausing, as a nation, this week to remember all who have lost their life due to the Pandemic.  Our world has known, and is still experiencing, so much struggle and trauma.  We give thanks for all the good that has emerged from these difficult days, whilst lamenting so much that has been lost.

Last Friday one of our members, Dr David Watson, gave a fascinating talk at the Men’s Luncheon Club Zoom about the rollout of the vaccine and his part on the national government committee that commissioned it.  David’s presentation was so clear, helpful and hopeful and we thank God for his experience and expertise.

We are moving forward – carefully, realistically and hopefully.  As these spring days progress and we move ever closer to Easter may you know God’s blessing, peace and strength in all you do. Erna joins me in sending you our love and best wishes.

Ian