A message from Matthew Girt, Diocesan Secretary
This last year with its twists and turns, was an unwelcome reminder, if ever we needed it, of the long tail of this pandemic, and how it’s impact – practical, physical and emotional – may well outlast its threatening presence.
When we thought we surely had had enough, we have since added increasing costs, and a war on the European continent.
That said, I am reminded that it often seems darker before the light, so I continue to live in faith and hope, and I do so not blindly or without challenge, but because I see the witness to God’s love in daily life, in how life is lived out across our parishes and chaplaincies.
I am acutely aware of the strain that this ongoing uncertainty, the pressure to make difficult decisions, and the constant need to be ready for change, has caused to many, particularly those who lead and serve in ministry across our churches.
Therefore, I want to pay tribute to them and thank them for all that they have and continue to do, to serve their communities in these difficult times.
I am also hugely grateful to the Diocesan Office Team for the way in which they have maintained their services under duress this last year. In these circumstances, the opportunities that many within the Diocese have taken to share a kind word or a message of encouragement to them, has been greatly appreciated.
This past year has seen us all on many occasions talk of ‘working through this together' and I can honestly say that week after week, I have seen that in many ways.
The Diocesan Office Team is here to serve, and we will continue to do so throughout, and the ministry of churches and individuals across the Diocese continues to transform lives and demonstrate Christ's love, which right now, we need more than ever.