Dear Friends.
As I write this letter, I am aware of so much change that is happening around us. The woods behind our house have gone from the dull browns of dead leaves and the mud of winter, to the glorious fresh greens of spring – heavily overlaid with the hue and perfume of bluebells at the moment. The natural world around us isn’t the only thing that’s changing; we have a new government and the prospect of more change to come.
We face change throughout our lives, whether it’s from life choices dictated by the result of exams, moving house to a new area, a new arrival in the family or the loss of one dear to us, or simply the passing of the seasons. Change is constant and we have to learn to adapt to it, life is never always the same even if we want it to be.
Last July marked a major change in my life when I was ordained to the Diaconate in the Anglican Church. The months since then have been full of changes and new experiences for me as I’ve got to grips with my role as Curate at St John the Baptist, Capel. This year I am looking forward to a further change when I am ordained Priest on 3rd July at Guildford Cathedral.
Why two ordinations? The simplest way I find to understand this is that the first year of ordained ministry is a bit like a Junior Houseman post in a hospital. Every doctor has to complete this successfully to progress in their profession. My year has been similar in allowing me to develop into the role without being responsible for everything. It’s also allowed time for reflection for me and the church corporate to affirm that I am ready to take that final step. This will be a very positive change for me, one which will mean I am able to participate fully in all the Rites and Sacraments of the Anglican Church, including presiding at Baptism’s, Marriages and Holy Communion.
You are very welcome to come and join me at the Cathedral on Saturday July 3rd at 11.00am for my ordination as Priest. Even if you can’t come to the Cathedral, a warm welcome awaits you at St John the Baptist on Sunday 4th July for our 10.00am service.
As we all face changes in the months and years to come, I pray that we will experience the love of God in our lives whatever happens.
Sue Egerton.