I have spent most of this past week attending Provincial Synod, which for those who are unfamiliar is the highest decision making body in our church. Most of the order of business was around cleaning up our Canons and Constitutions, but there was also significant time spent on the impact of COVID-19 on our church. As part of this we had speakers address us on the question of vaccines and the role they play in the science of this pandemic. Many of you will by now have seen that a motion was passed making it compulsory for all clergy to vaccinate. The spirit behind this was to encourage members of our church to vaccinate, and lead by example. Included in this resolution was also a call for a theological response to be crafted. Providing our members with a way to grapple with their own decision around vaccination in light of our faith. I pray that this will create a climate for us to continue journeying with one another on this issue.
Leading by example can be a powerful testimony to our faith. And this morning we read in the letter of James about the importance of a deeply prayerful community, coming together in all the joys and sorrows of life. Leading one another by their example of prayer, confession, forgiveness and healing. When we do this, we ground our lives in the powerful presence of God who is always at work. Jesus challenges us in the Gospel today to take seriously those things that may be hindering our relationship with God, or ways in which we hinder others in their relationship with God. This speaks to our common life as believers, and our responsibility towards one another to deepen in relationship. So, I want to encourage each of us to spend time this week reflecting on the role we play in this community of faith where God has planted us. In what ways can you contribute to this common life we share? What heritage would you like to leave for the generation that comes after us? How might God be leading you into new relationship with God and one another? Pray for me, I am praying for you.

With much love and light on the week ahead.

Reverend Anastasia Huntley

26 September 2021