The Rector
Writes
Dear Parishioners,
In October 2006 the parish sold 3.2 acres of land intending to use the proceeds to finance a parish/community resource centre.
It was hoped to have planning permission in place so that construction could start immediately following the completion of the school
extension.
In the event the sale of lands has not completed. The parish is dealing with this issue. More importantly, in the short term, is the lack
of finance to enable us to proceed with the planned development. However temporary this situation it is a setback for the parish:-
- Our present hall facilities are inadequate and outdated;
- Users of the buildings, parish organisations, outside groups and the tennis club are once again "on hold", to put it mildly.
In the Bible, particularly in the Wilderness accounts of the Old Testament, there are many situations in which God"s people
find themselves at their wits end, lost, their way barred, desperately needing guidance, fresh direction and leadership.
Our own lives, and that of the parish, can be very similar to the Bible setting.
Hopes set back, ways forward difficult to discover, feeling out of control and thrown
back on ourselves. However, it is also a time when we are called to look again to the
God of our journeying and of our wilderness experiences:-
- To pray for his guidance and wisdom;
- To realise our plans and hopes are in his power and control;
- And so to place our hand in his for the journey.
In Numbers chapter 9 we have the account of the people of Israel, under Moses, recognising God"s
presence with them as they journeyed towards the promised land:-
A cloud covering the tabernacle of his presence --- in the darkness of night having the appearance
of fire; and in daylight appearing as a pillar of cloud.
As the cloud moved the people of Israel took up the tabernacle and set out on their journey; and in the
place where the cloud settled down, there the people of Israel encamped. In this way the people placed
themselves and their journey in God"s providence and control.
In all the facets of the parish"s life and journey, as we go forward in faith, part of God"s Church
in this place and in our time, we are encouraged to know that God will guide and lead his people,
giving them and us direction and hope for our journey and the issues we will meet along the way,
no matter what the morrow brings!
Lord, as we in Kilternan Parish journey forward with you in faith, into your care and protection
we commit ourselves, our loved ones, your Church and world. Amen.
David
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