Children and Families
You may have noticed the ‘Adventure Tots display table’ in the foyer. Thank you if you took one of the bookmarks and prayed for our month of prayer. We will be celebrating ourselves with a ‘tots’ party’ on 25 June and hopefully a picnic towards the end of term. Our team has worked incredibly hard to welcome our families. Setting up the sanctuary and preparing refreshments is a great workout and we are always thankful for the way God blesses our conversations and physical energy!
During our last ‘Refresh’ session we reflected on the many trees around us. I love the willows’ drooping branches and the many fruit trees that bring us so much delicious produce. We remembered how the roots of a tree spread out to find water and nutrients especially needed during hot, dry seasons. We also remembered how useful the tree was for Zacchaeus as he wanted to see Jesus. By spending time with Jesus, Zacchaeus realised that he had to change how he lived. Like Zacchaeus, I don’t always get things right, especially when there’s so much to do and I’m spinning round in circles. I like to think that if we can find those ‘quiet times’ with God on a regular basis then we will be ‘fed and watered’ in a strengthening way.
Our church family is so incredibly important too and maintaining that connection is another sustaining ‘root of support’. As many of you will be aware, this has been a challenging year, with the sudden loss of my sister, my mum and supporting John as he went through his own health battles (and not forgetting one of my sons who suffered an unexpected fall on his travels to Indonesia… thankfully Kris has made a good recovery). Thank you to those who have and continue to stand with us, we really value that support.
As I approach my last few weeks in this role, I shall very much miss the time with Trevor, Katie, Andy and Kathryn who have encouraged me and been so kind and caring. John and I look forward to catching up with you all at SBC very soon.
God bless Hilary
Hilary West, 02/07/2025