The United Reformed Church in Jersey

Minister’s Letter                                                       

The URC Manse, La Grande Route de St. Jean,

Sion, St. John, Jersey, JE3 4FZ

(01534) 861386. (Jsy)  (01481) 264109 (Gsy)

RevdPatrick@aol.com

September 2010

 Dear Friends, 

As I write this letter, I am surrounded by news, much of it rather depressing. There are floods in Pakistan and it is expected that it will take three years for communities to return to how they were. On the other hand, there is a lack of water in Niger, with consequent famine. Miners are trapped deep underground in Chile, but the joy of finding them is clouded by the fact that it will take many weeks to free them. Distressed as we are, we can pray for them all; perplexed by the scale of such disasters we can make some donation for their relief if we can do so. The Christian response will always be to pray and to act, whatever the circumstances and I trust that we can all play our small part when such things occur. Of course, the question often asked is “Where is a loving God?” Be assured that the Bible reminds us that he does not cause such things to happen – natural disasters are just that – natural. It is in nature that bad things do happen to good people. Sometimes we think God has forgotten us, but Christ’s words “I will be with you always even to the end of time” should be held on to, especially when world affairs or personal tragedies strike at the very heart of our faith.

 On a happier note, there have been some television reports of very excited young people who have received their examination results “A” levels or GCSE. It seems that the percentage of passes is greater than ever, and this shows the hard work that is put in by the students to achieve the grades they had hoped for. I’m sure many of us know someone who has just successfully finished examinations – do give them a word of congratulation. For some, this will mark a stepping stone to further or higher education; some will be leaving home for the first time; others starting on their chosen career. Say a prayer for them as they venture out – however brave a face they put on it, most are at least a little anxious of the future. And do not forget that, whilst some of them have put aside church-going in favour of other activities, these days of exploration of a new life often raise questions about what faith means, and we should all be ready to give an answer if we find ourselves able to do so. Our experience of life and faith should give us a good basis to help others as they find new horizons. We may not see instant results but we ought, if we can, to sow some new seeds as the younger people find their way in life.

 September brings a new “season” to the Church as activities begin again after the summer break. Do support all you can. It also brings Harvest Festivals, which are very happy times in the life of the Church. May we enjoy the displays of talent and generosity which these Sundays bring, and as we celebrate the bounty of the earth which we enjoy, may we also spare a thought and prayer for those whose harvest has not materialised and who have little cause for celebration. May we sing “Come, ye faithful people, come!” with gusto, but may we also remember those brothers and sisters in our Islands and worldwide, who have little cause for thanks.

With every blessing

Patrick