Blog

As we move into our summer months we look forward to the longer days
and warmer weather (hopefully – we are in the UK…), and have optimistically packed away the winter boots and coats, enjoying the ease of just stepping out and closing the door behind us without having to don several layers before facing the outdoors. We anticipate barbecues in the garden, picnics in the park, al fresco drinks, and life just feeling easier and more pleasant.

However, summer doesn’t always make life easier for everyone and this gives church an opportunity, along with the sun, to shine. Not in a showy way that demands attention and praise, but in a quiet Christ-like way that says ‘we see you and we’re here to help’. For example, the extreme heat experienced in recent summers can be difficult for elderly and those with health issues, so just keeping an eye and ensuring people are coping is something we can all do.

For those in care homes, family holidays and the extra demands of children at home can mean fewer visits and more loneliness. This is where our team of care home volunteers shine, taking services to those who can no longer attend church, and spending time talking to residents, serving them teas and coffees, and helping them know they are not forgotten. None of this has to be ‘worthy’ and solemn. Some of our best ministry happens when we roll up our sleeves, let down our hair, and just come alongside people doing what is needed with good humour.

For many families, school holidays are not a joyful break but a logistical
nightmare involving childcare issues, stretched budgets, and the realisation
that children need three full meals a day, every day, even in July and August. School meals disappear for six weeks, and the rapid cost of living increase has made food bills soar. It’s no surprise, then, that local foodbanks see an increased demand. The volunteers there do extraordinary work providing food parcels, toiletries and household basics, and a sense of dignity and hope to those in real need. We are very grateful to them for carrying on with the grace of people who have learned to smile whilst sorting out 57 cans of baked beans, debating whether custard counts as a ‘luxury item’,
and debating what you do actually do with quinoa. We are also grateful to
those of you who contribute regularly to the collection point here – without
you none of this could happen and people would go hungry. Your support is
crucial now that the misguided council ‘Fair Share’ food hub initiative locally
has been poorly implemented, causing donations to the foodbank in our
town to drop to the point where collections have been reduced from weekly
to fortnightly. If you don’t already donate please don’t think you have to
stretch yourself to buy an extra bag of shopping, but a box of cereal here,
and a bag of pasta there all add up to real and vital help for families in need.
There is joy in shared purpose and community in shared effort. Whilst we
(hopefully) enjoy the sunshine let us remember that serving others is a reflection of how Christ lived, and a witness to his teaching. This summer may
our church not be known for the typical summer fetes and cake stalls, but
for its compassion, generosity, and a willingness to stand alongside those
who need a little extra support.

And if we can do nothing else, we can pray.

Heavenly Father,
As the summer sun blesses our days, we thank you for the warmth, the
light, and the chance to slow down a little.

We pray for those who find summer a challenge, for those suffering from
loneliness, and for the families for whom the holidays are a challenge – for
parents juggling work, childcare, and the stress of not being able to provide
enough food to satisfy hungry children. We lift the volunteers at our local
food banks to you and ask you to bless them. May every parcel handed out
be a reminder of your love in action. We also lift before you all of those who
already volunteer at and on behalf of SBC in numerous ways and thank you
for them.

Help us, as a church, to serve together with joy – not from duty, but from
compassion and a desire to please you. Make our small acts shine and
reflect your glory. Amen.
Sue H