Post No. 2 - Thursday 19th March

Further regulatory advice to parishioners [updated 24th March]: Marriages and baptisms have been suspended for the time being. Funerals will proceed provided that numbers are very strictly limited. Funeral ceremonies will only be at the graveside.

Rector’s Message

There is no doubt that we are now living through unprecedented times. The current coronavirus situation has been likened to life in time of war, when the normal course of life simply breaks down.

It is at such times as these that we must think of the common good and live as citizens who really do care for one another. This morning I read some salutary words of German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in the course an address to the German people yesterday: "We are not doomed to helplessly watch the spread of the virus. We have the means to fight it: we must practice social distancing out of consideration for one another".

It is all very disturbing, because not only must we all learn to do things differently - to live differently - but also we cannot help being aware of the dark shadow of the illness that lies at the heart of this crisis. That means thinking of the suffering, the dying, the bereaved, the perplexed and, of course, those who tend the sick and those who have the responsibility of taking really difficult decisions for society as a whole.

I found it striking to see how people in Italy who are strictly confined to their homes have been coming out on to their balconies and singing to one another. There was one lady, an opera singer, who gave a tremendous performance! Her strong and rich voice rang through the street. I noticed similar things happening some time ago among residents of Wuhan, where the pandemic first really took hold. We also must encourage one another, appreciating our friends and loved ones more than ever and taking time to be thankful for every blessing in our lives.

A time such as this can be a time for really deep reflection on life and on faith: What have been, and what are, the big things in my life? What have been, and what are, the big ways my faith has influenced my life?

A Prayer for Peace of Mind

You will keep them in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you

Heavenly Father, in your love and wisdom you know the fears and anxieties of all your children. Your Son, Jesus Christ, said to his disciples: “Do not be afraid, It is I,” and to the tempest: “Peace be still”. We ask, not only for ourselves but for all others, especially our healthcare workers, that we may cast all our cares on you, for we know you care for us. Give us peace of mind and unshaken trust in you and guide us into perfect peace. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Post No. 3 by 12 noon on Saturday 21st March