Dear Friends,

Who could possibly live without hope? At a time of uncertainty about Brexit, when economic uncertainties persist, casting their shadows over many lives; when so much pain and suffering can create doubt about the goodness of life, we need to be reminded that hope is always justified. Holy Week and Easter bring us a reminder of why there is always a cause for hope. The God who caused all life to be in the first place chose to bring His crucified Son back to New Life. The Festival of Easter celebrates the truth that God`s love and life will always be triumphant over sin, suffering and death.

Thank God there is variety in the world. Each of God`s creatures is uniquely individual, including you and me. Each snowflake has a different pattern, each animal has its own distinct characteristics and each person has her or his unique personality.

This month we remember literally millions who have died as a result of war. God says – every one of these who fell is a child of mine, everyone I have counted the hairs on their head. So, we remember those who died and give thanks for what they gave to us and the generations which followed them and we rejoice that everyone was and remains forever precious and loved in God’s sight.

Light will always have to fight darkness. Love will always have to fight hate. Truth will always have to fight falsehood. These are the things we proclaim when we, by word and deed, share with others the message that Jesus is Lord.

Dear Friends

Autumn is a time for cooling off after the long hot lazy and hazy days of summer.  It is back to darker nights, green leaves falling, conker fights and lingering mists. For some it`s the dread of going back to school or the thrill of starting college.  For others it is the joy of singing along to the Last Night of the Proms and tapping feet to the return of Strictly Come Dancing.  There are relieved sigh's  of `it`s back to autumn` and for the people called Methodists there is excitement and enthusiasm about the start of another new year in the life of the church.