At the beginning of a new year most
people reflect back over the past year, and look forward with hope to the new
year. This new year has arrived the day
after my curacy at St. James and Emmanuel ended. And so I look back over the past
three-and-a-half years as your curate, and I look forward to the start of
something completely new in the future.
The first thing I want to say to you
all is ‘thank you’. When I think back to
the beginning of my curacy, I remember being very warmly welcomed at both
churches. I was so ‘green’ at ministry;
I almost cringe to remember it! But as you
were forgiving and tolerant of me, so I have been able to learn from the numerous
mistakes I have made.
Serving in a parish as diverse as St James with Emmanuel has broadened my
experience in so many ways, which will stand me in good stead for the
future. New Brighton is an amazing
community of people. As your curate over
the past 3 ½ years, I’ve had the deep privilege of sharing with many of you
some of life’s most challenging and intense moments: births and baptisms, marriages, deaths and many other
pastoral situations. We’ve celebrated
together in worship and for a variety of special occasions. I will remember this time for ever, and will
be holding you all in prayer as I move on to other places.
As I write, I am preparing for an
interview in a parish not too far away; as yet, I cannot as yet say where it is
- but soon as possible, I will let you all know. No matter what happens, please know that I
will remember you with love. Thank you all
so much for what you have given me over the past few years. Never forget:
All things are possible with God. May God bless you and keep you. Love, Karen.
