The Jubilee Year
Dear Friends,
This year has been turbulent to say the least, with many sad and tragic things happening around the world. Too many times the news is filled with sadness and often vitriol too. But at the same time there are good things happening and many good examples to follow.
I am reminded of the words from the Queen’s Speech in 2017 when she used the words of Saint Teresa of Calcutta, saying "we can do small things with great love". Both she and St Teresa recognised that small, selfless acts of kindness often have a great impact on people’s lives and these life experiences will in turn lead them to do the same. It is clear from the examples they themselves have set and followed, that it comes from their Christian belief and faith.
For many of us, the Queen has been a steadfast example in our lives of living out her faith and leading her country throughout constant change. She has been a beacon of hope for us and many years ago in her 21st birthday address, she asked for her people’s support and God’s help saying "I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service… God help me to make good my vow and God bless all of you who are willing to share in it." Her subsequent life has demonstrated this through her faith, service and sacrifice.
The Queen’s life has been full of both small and large acts of love, and indeed faith, which have required patience and kindness and in all that time she has protected, trusted, hoped and persevered for her people and her God. This love is one to be admired. She prayed at her Coronation for wisdom and strength to carry out the solemn promises she was about to make, and we can see that it is a prayer that God has answered.
May God bless her as she celebrates her Platinum Jubilee and may we be blessed in all we do.
Love and prayers
