Rector's Thoughts

 Dear Friends

As we step into a New Year, our hearts may be filled with gratitude for the faithfulness of God; a faithfulness that has carried us through every joy and every challenge of the year behind us. Though seasons change, we have all been taught that the Lord remains the same: steadfast, unshaken, and ever close to His people. “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed… great is Your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22–23). But the other truth is sometimes we do go through days, weeks and even years of trials and suffering. As Christians we must keep rooted in our belief that God is with us and God will never leave us. This is the reality for 2026.

So the turning of the calendar invites us not simply to make resolutions, (which I can never keep!) but to renew our devotion to the One who holds our days in His hands. This year, may we walk with greater intention seeking Jesus` presence, listening for Jesus` voice, and loving our neighbours with the compassion of Christ. For Christians who suffer as much as any group we are called to transform this experience with the love of Jesus Christ. Please remember he suffered much in his own life even before the events of Holy Week.

We pray that 2026 will be a year marked by spiritual growth, unity within the Churches, and boldness in sharing the hope we carry. May the Holy Spirit stir fresh vision in our hearts, strengthen weary hands, and remind each of us that our service and work in the Lord is never in vain. Serving Jesus, in the silence of simple acts of love is never wasted.

Thank you for journeying with us—reading, praying, supporting, and standing firm in faith during 2025. I ask your forgiveness for anything I’ve messed up in this past year. Please believe that you are a vital part of the ministry of our Churches and a blessing to our community. Please don’t tire of loving and serving in Jesus name. My prayer for you is the same one Paul prayed for the Ephesians: “That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith… that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:17–19).

May the peace of Christ guard your hearts, may His joy be your strength, and may His love shine through you in every day of 2026. Happy New Year—may it be a year of grace, growth, and God’s glory.  

With hope in Christ and every blessing on you and your loved ones.

Revd. Stephen Monk