Hertingfordbury Parish News: April 2003
Clergy Letter
As I write this letter, I am waiting to hear our Prime Minister's Address to the Nation. A nation now sadly at war. The television news has shown demonstration across our country; the demonstrators are both young and old, but together in their purpose, opposition to war in Iraq. I am not going to get into a political debate on the rights or wrongs of what has brought us to this point. I would rather follow the lead of our Diocesan Bishop, and share with you his message to the clergy of this Diocese. Dated 20th March, he writes: "To the profound dismay and sadness of many of us it now looks as though war in Iraq is inevitable. It is at such times as these that our ministry of prayer, sacrament and pastoral care is of the greatest importance. If there is any way in which I or my fellow Bishops or senior staff can be of any help to you in the days ahead please do not hesitate to contact us. The image of the Good Shepherd is one which we need to have constantly in our minds and souls as we exercise our ministries in the days and weeks ahead." These words I found to be of support. It goes without saying that I will be available to speak and or pray with any of you who wish to do so at this particular time. Our Bishop enclosed some prayers with his letter and I will share just two of them here with you. Prayer for Iraq and for all who live in fear Lord God, creator of us all, Look with your divine compassion upon all who live in fear. Comfort them with your presence Uphold them in your love And grant us all, with them, The grace and courage To work for a world Where justice and peace may flourish And your name be hallowed. Amen A prayer for our own parish Grant us, O God, the courage To work constantly for peace, To battle for truth, To strive for justice That our parish may be a place Where love and mercy flourish and your name is glorified in all we think and speak and do, for Jesus' sake. Amen I commend these prayers to our use and each one of us to God's service with a hope for peace to come soon to our troubled world. Love and every blessing. Rev'd RosemaryPlease note: Although the Hertingfordbury Parish News is produced by St. Mary's PCC, the opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the PCC.