Jesus said many memorable things one was “consider the lilies of the field” which shows his care of the environment. At the time of writing I have just come back from General Synod, the Church of England’s national assembly, in York. Over the course of the four days we debated many different issues including new baptism services, safeguarding vulnerable children and adults and ecumenical relations. The most important thing was the day given over to considering the environment and global warming. We heard many fine speeches, some wonderful Bible theology and studied various topics in small groups as well as voting on the key propositions.
On the last day we sent a strongly worded message to the Paris summit. We also decided to use our massive investments in fossil fuel to make sure they are developed in a responsible way. As poor countries that have no alternative but to use fossil fuels for their energy can do so in a safe way that is not overly expensive.
However, that is only half the story. Thefactisthatlarge parts of the world are dying by drought as others are swept away by floods. Many of the island communities in the Pacific are disappearing under rising sealevels. Thatiswhy direct action is needed.
A few weeks ago, during the Christian Aid campaign, this estate gave £2,266. This is the most we have ever collected and represents nearly a 10% rise on previous years. We are very grateful and I want to say a hearty thank you to you all.
It may seem a long way off, but 4th October will be our Harvest Festival service when I hope we can all come together and raise a large sum of money for people in Africa. Many of these projects attract funding from governments. For every £1 we raise they give £1 or in some cases £4. If we raise £30 we can buy enough seed to feed a family for a year. If we raise £150 we could help train twelve women with farming skills. If we can double that to over £300 we could help a woman have all the equipment, seed and land she needs to create a market garden.
When we consider what we pay out to top up our car or to fill up our supermarket trolleys, these seem small amounts but they don’t just save people’s lives, they transform them. It means that instead of somebody living on the verge of starvation and depending on overseas handouts, they can feed themselves and become dignified members of society.
So before we go on holiday and have a richly deserved break, I am letting you know that in September we will be making a big effort to change lives again. I hope you will be able to join us.
Jesus also said let the children come to me please see we have special film club on Sunday morning I do hope your children can come.
With every good wish,
Yours sincerely,
Revd. Canon Jonathan Ford. Minister Christ Church Moreton Hall
