Dear Friends

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. (John 14.1)

The New Year generally brings hope for a better future – for most of us it’s the most optimistic time of the year. Hope itself is based on belief – and as 2010 gets underway we may be searching in all sorts of different directions for something solid and reliable in which to believe. After all, we live in a society where belief is not forced upon us. We are free to choose, and with that freedom come opportunities, but also dangers.

Recession, climate change, a probable General Election, continued instability in international relations, coupled with the almost perpetual angst fuelled by media reporting of ‘what is the world coming to?’ – all these things, coupled with the ups and downs of our own personal situation, challenge hope and belief.

But even in adversity, hope and belief can persist, particularly when based on good foundations. The great church buildings in our part of the world – Canterbury and Rochester Cathedrals and the many local parish churches – testify to a faith tradition which has not only stood the test of time, but has also shaped the future for generation after generation.

That tradition, and its fresh expression in new forms of Christian life, worship and community engagement is a great foundation in which we can build at home, at work and in our locality. I think we have tremendous human resources which, through the work of the Holy Spirit, can bring support and better quality to our own, and other people’s lives. Indeed, there is no aspect of the community in which, through a positive and generous faith, a real difference cannot be made.

Every Blessing for 2010

Yours in Christ

Charles Hill
Priest in Charge