The North Lafford Benefice Newsletter - March 2024A Time to Get InvolvedReverend Al and Richard attend a gathering of ministers in Derbyshire in February entitled Yours and Mine. Its purpose was to pray about and discuss how our church life might be shaped in the light of Time To Change Together. We were blessed to hear some wonderful examples of how congregations are starting to come together in all manner of ways, worship, communal events, pastoral support. None of this will be new to you as I have been talking about Time to Change Together since my arrival with you. It will not surprise you that there are challenges as well as opportunities and I would welcome input from across our worshipping communities as to how you have received the news so far, and what it is you are excited or concerned about. All of the information you need is available at A Time To Change Together or go straight to the Lincoln Diocese Webpage and search for Time To Change Together. As a Diocese, as a Deanery Partnership, as a Local Mission Partnership, as a Benefice it is important that we do this together; so please get involved. This beautiful icon painted by Ian Knowles helped us to think about the history and love of God in our lives. Reverend Al.
Jigsaws and missing pieces!Were you given a jigsaw for Christmas? Have you completed it yet?Someone in our church community told me about their jigsaw, it sounds difficult as the picture on the box is not the same as the picture on the board!Frustrating? Perhaps, but not as much as the jigsaw with the missing piece, there is one in my cupboard like that which I do not throw away in case the piece turns up!There can be missing pieces in people’s lives which some try to fill with money, drink, drugs, relationships or more possessions. We all know or have heard of such people.There is also in us all a God shaped space which only Jesus can fill completely. You will know if you have found Jesus and invited Him into your life. If you do not know and this is news to you then why wait with that emptiness any longer?The ministers of our churches would count it a privilege to bring you to meet with Jesus and to have the peace of the missing piece found.Those who know Jesus may have gaps to fill in understanding the Bible and in living out the Christian life or in being more effective in serving the Lord.Have these thoughts given you a nudge? Please do not ignore the nudge!Rev Al and the Ministry Team will be pleased to enable you to start your Christian journey or to find an appropriate way for you to grow in faith and discipleship through personal conversation or through the courses and discussions which are offered and will be offered during this year.Rev Rosemary
