The Rector Writes

Dear Friends,

I hope you have had a very pleasant summer break! As we start back in September to all the business of the winter, its worth reminding ourselves of all the people who keep things going throughout the year. At the last count well over 100 people are involved in leadership positions throughout the parish, and many more behind the scenes as well. These are the people who keep everything going, and often do it unsung and unheralded.

But there are two things that we all need to do as a parish community to support all these volunteers:

The first is encouragement! A quiet word of thanks and congratulations makes all the difference. Even sending a card or short letter will can really brighten someone’s day.

The second is to think before complaining! Remember that the people involved are usually volunteers, trying to do their best on a small budget, often under deadlines and pressure in their work. While we try to be as professional as we can, we can’t do everything in the way that everyone would like. So if you have an area of concern or a problem, try and remember these points:

1) Make sure you know exactly what it is you are complaining about! Don’t bring in unnecessary side issues.

2) Speak informally to a leader first, and then put your problem in writing if necessary.

3) Don’t expect to be able to speak to someone on the night of a meeting - they may be very busy with other things including supervision. Try to make an informal appointment.

4) Stay calm, stick to the issues, don’t be personal, listen to the other person’s point of view.

If we can “oil the machinery of human relationships” by respecting others, we will go a long way towards creating the kind of Christian community which is the true foretaste of the Kingdom of God.

We look forward to seeing you in church and around the parish!

Yours in Christ

Andrew

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