Keeping in Touch 33: Unity

Dear Friends,

Just a brief thought from me this week. This coming week is the week of prayer for Christian Unity. It is also World Religion Day on Sunday 17th and Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday 18th. In a world where we are often so aware of division – or at least made so aware of it by the media! – these annual remembrances help us to focus on what brings us together as fellow human beings on the journey of life, of all faiths and none.

You might like to take some time next week to pray each day for unity in the Church and in the whole human family and there are some resources here, including daily meditations and ‘Go and do’ actions, provided by Christian Aid. The material has been prepared by the Grandchamp Monastic Community in Switzerland and the theme is “Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit”, based on John 15.1-17.

With all we have experienced in the last 10 months I thought that seemed a very helpful theme! We abide in God’s love whether we can be together in person or have to make do virtually. And his love in us can still nurture our gifts and talents to grow and bear fruit.

With my love and prayers for you,

All Saints Vicarage,
Thursday 14th January 2021

 

In case you missed them last week, here are some places you can seek help if you are finding things difficult. You are always welcome to give me a call or email me and we have a Pastoral ‘phone network I can connect you with.

Anxiety UK Charity providing support if you have been diagnosed with an anxiety condition.
Phone: 03444 775 774 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5.30pm)
Website: www.anxietyuk.org.uk

CALM The Campaign Against Living Miserably. A charity providing a mental health helpline and webchat.
Phone: 0800 58 58 58 (daily, 5pm to midnight)
Website: www.thecalmzone.net

Mind Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems.
Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm)
Website: www.mind.org.uk

Samaritans Confidential support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair.
Phone: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline)
Website: www.samaritans.org.uk

YoungMinds Information on child and adolescent mental health. Services for parents and professionals.
Phone: Parents’ helpline 0808 802 5544 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4pm)
Website: www.youngminds.org.uk