Articles in the Littlehampton Gazette
by Local Church Leaders
Edited by Mike Webber
Jo Gisbey, Arun Church
Great expectations and a whispered hope
On New Year’s Day, instead of quickly broken resolutions, my husband suggested climbing a mountain together as a family. Eight months later we piled into the car, children, suitcases and the dog, and headed to Wales, excited about the adventures ahead.
The drive, meant to take three and a half hours, took six. When we finally arrived, somewhat frazzled, the holiday house was not quite what we had expected. The photos, likely helped by clever use of AI, were rather deceiving!
We tried to put our disappointment to one side and enjoy our time together. Saturday morning arrived and we woke early. We had researched where was best for a family climb and settled on Pen y Fan. We knew it was busy in summer, but I had not anticipated the hordes of people clambering up its side, hundreds going up and hundreds coming down.
As a small-town country girl from the Scottish Borders, this was not how I had imagined our idyllic family climb. Nevertheless, we got on with the adventure!
About 50 metres up, our fit and healthy youngest daughter looked pale, decided her legs were tired, and asked the inevitable question: “Are we nearly there yet?” I took a deep breath, counted to ten, got out the sweets intended for much further along the journey and used the age-old parenting strategy of bribery. We carried on.
After many more pitstops for the children, the dog and for me, we made it to the top. We were delighted, the crowd had thinned out, and we celebrated together. The trip down was significantly more fun!
The next day we planned a leisurely walk to see some waterfalls, followed by Sunday lunch at a local pub. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? Well, it would have been, other than the fact that the streams and waterfalls had almost completely dried up after the long, hot summer. Our intended paddling became clambering over rocks and dipping toes into the water.
During the weekend I reflected on how often we have great expectations for life. We imagine how something will be, and how we think it will turn out. Sometimes things work out as expected, but sometimes life disappoints us. Disappointments come in all shapes and sizes, and I know the smallness of those from the weekend and know too that sometimes disappointments are life-changing. It’s important to recognise how we are feeling, to name the disappointment rather than pretend all is okay, to talk about it and seek support. But let’s not make our home in disappointment. If we keep moving forward, we might be surprised by the beauty along the way.
Life may not look how we thought or hoped it would, but we can find treasure of a different kind when we allow whispers of hope to speak into our disappointment.
When we place our hope in God, He will not disappoint. Romans 5:5 (Amplified Version) says, “Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us”
We can put our hope in God. He is constant; He never changes. The Bible promises that He will never leave us or forsake us. Now that is hope indeed.
The drive, meant to take three and a half hours, took six. When we finally arrived, somewhat frazzled, the holiday house was not quite what we had expected. The photos, likely helped by clever use of AI, were rather deceiving!
We tried to put our disappointment to one side and enjoy our time together. Saturday morning arrived and we woke early. We had researched where was best for a family climb and settled on Pen y Fan. We knew it was busy in summer, but I had not anticipated the hordes of people clambering up its side, hundreds going up and hundreds coming down.
As a small-town country girl from the Scottish Borders, this was not how I had imagined our idyllic family climb. Nevertheless, we got on with the adventure!
About 50 metres up, our fit and healthy youngest daughter looked pale, decided her legs were tired, and asked the inevitable question: “Are we nearly there yet?” I took a deep breath, counted to ten, got out the sweets intended for much further along the journey and used the age-old parenting strategy of bribery. We carried on.
After many more pitstops for the children, the dog and for me, we made it to the top. We were delighted, the crowd had thinned out, and we celebrated together. The trip down was significantly more fun!
The next day we planned a leisurely walk to see some waterfalls, followed by Sunday lunch at a local pub. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? Well, it would have been, other than the fact that the streams and waterfalls had almost completely dried up after the long, hot summer. Our intended paddling became clambering over rocks and dipping toes into the water.
During the weekend I reflected on how often we have great expectations for life. We imagine how something will be, and how we think it will turn out. Sometimes things work out as expected, but sometimes life disappoints us. Disappointments come in all shapes and sizes, and I know the smallness of those from the weekend and know too that sometimes disappointments are life-changing. It’s important to recognise how we are feeling, to name the disappointment rather than pretend all is okay, to talk about it and seek support. But let’s not make our home in disappointment. If we keep moving forward, we might be surprised by the beauty along the way.
Life may not look how we thought or hoped it would, but we can find treasure of a different kind when we allow whispers of hope to speak into our disappointment.
When we place our hope in God, He will not disappoint. Romans 5:5 (Amplified Version) says, “Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us”
We can put our hope in God. He is constant; He never changes. The Bible promises that He will never leave us or forsake us. Now that is hope indeed.
Darren Lewis, Minister at Littlehampton Baptist Church
Littlehampton Churches Gazette Article July 2026
Changing Tides, shifting sands and a solid rock
What should it be this year? I pondered this question as I entered what can only be described as organised chaos – otherwise referred to as ‘our garage’. Having climbed over the boxes, unfinished projects, the things for the tip, I found what I had been looking for: the tools for the job. A quick washdown and placed at the front of the garage, the various buckets and spades are ready to go.
Of course, I am talking about the main event of the summer, next week’s Littlehampton Sandcastle competition. I must admit when I previously participated with my young children, I was taken aback by the level of competition. We created an incredible entry which we were very proud of. However, when you start seeing people use tools normally found on a building site, you know you’re up against it. As we walked around the hundreds of entries from different age categories, we were amazed at the various sea creatures, lighthouse and other tremendous sculptures. They were brilliant.
The problem is - in a few hours they were all gone. Not because of any wrongdoing but simply the nature of changing tides and shifting sands. It is true of life in general too. Things are constantly changing, shifting and developing, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse and sometimes it feels like more of the same. It can feel like one minute it is the fun, the sun and the good times, the next it is all wind and rain.
At this current moment in time, our nation enters welcomes its sixth Prime Minister in 10 years and with it a number of changes to government and governance. Internationally, we see injustice and war, as nations shift the global sands and compete for power. That’s not to say there isn’t any goodness going on in the world, but to highlight how frail and volatile the world’s affairs are.
In the Bible, we find the book of Psalms. They are 150 poems conveying the reality of life and express the raw relationship of journeying through life with God. Psalm 62 begins with these words ‘Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him. Truly He is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.’ These are words of assurance built on the unbreakable promises of God.
Jesus Christ Himself told a famous parable of the wise man who build his house upon a rock which stood firm in the storms of life, unlike the foolish man who built his house upon the sand that fell flat. Jesus’ point? He is the solid rock to build our life on.
I still don’t know what sandcastle we are going to create at the competition this year. Maybe you have some pointers for me? However, what I do know is that I am going to build my life on the one who is unshakeable, unbreakable, eternal, truthful and faithful – and that is my pointer to you.
Of course, I am talking about the main event of the summer, next week’s Littlehampton Sandcastle competition. I must admit when I previously participated with my young children, I was taken aback by the level of competition. We created an incredible entry which we were very proud of. However, when you start seeing people use tools normally found on a building site, you know you’re up against it. As we walked around the hundreds of entries from different age categories, we were amazed at the various sea creatures, lighthouse and other tremendous sculptures. They were brilliant.
The problem is - in a few hours they were all gone. Not because of any wrongdoing but simply the nature of changing tides and shifting sands. It is true of life in general too. Things are constantly changing, shifting and developing, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse and sometimes it feels like more of the same. It can feel like one minute it is the fun, the sun and the good times, the next it is all wind and rain.
At this current moment in time, our nation enters welcomes its sixth Prime Minister in 10 years and with it a number of changes to government and governance. Internationally, we see injustice and war, as nations shift the global sands and compete for power. That’s not to say there isn’t any goodness going on in the world, but to highlight how frail and volatile the world’s affairs are.
In the Bible, we find the book of Psalms. They are 150 poems conveying the reality of life and express the raw relationship of journeying through life with God. Psalm 62 begins with these words ‘Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from Him. Truly He is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.’ These are words of assurance built on the unbreakable promises of God.
Jesus Christ Himself told a famous parable of the wise man who build his house upon a rock which stood firm in the storms of life, unlike the foolish man who built his house upon the sand that fell flat. Jesus’ point? He is the solid rock to build our life on.
I still don’t know what sandcastle we are going to create at the competition this year. Maybe you have some pointers for me? However, what I do know is that I am going to build my life on the one who is unshakeable, unbreakable, eternal, truthful and faithful – and that is my pointer to you.
Darren Lewis, Minister at Littlehampton Baptist Church
World Cup moment will reach well beyond the winning of the trophy
Twenty four. That’s how many hours until England kick off their world cup campaign as I sit and write this. What’s more, in seven hundred and ninety-two hours (or thirty-three days) from the time of writing, it will be the big match – the final. At the end of that night, we will know who will be lifting football’s most coveted trophy; and the infamous question of whether it will be coming home will have been answered once again. That’s the big question, right?
Let’s face it, the lyrics to the anthem ‘Three Lions’ has been rewritten so many times that ‘thirty years of hurt’ is now sixty! Wouldn’t it be lovely to have ‘no more years of hurt’- because winning the World Cup is the answer to no more hurt, right? I know they were only talking about football, but as someone who grew up in a football obsessed house, I know many who would say: ‘this is more than just football’. History of the game and response to past failures suggest this to be true. The reality is that they touch on something far deeper than they realise: in our culture, our identity is often defined by achievement or lack thereof.
Don’t get me wrong. Should we win, I will be celebrating like crazy with everyone else and harping on about it every moment I get. But that’s all it will be – a moment. To be honest, the tournament has already had a memorable moment that will reach well beyond winning the trophy. No, not Messi’s hat trick or Vozinha's brilliant goalkeeping display as Cape Verde drew against Spain. Rather it was what happened after the game between Germany and debutants Curaçao.
It was the moment German players, Felix Nmecha and Jonathan Tah, joined several Curaçao players for prayer in the centre circle. Speaking after the match, Nmecha said, “In the game we are opponents, but after the match we are all Christians and brothers. We simply said a little prayer together because we are all very grateful”.
The reality is – life is full of passing moments. Even winning the World Cup will pass, and in four years it will all start again. But what Nmecha touched upon was something greater, something more meaningful, something eternal. This powerful example of Christian faith shows that humanity’s true identity and fulfilment in life is not founded on a moment of achievement or failure. Rather, it is an everlasting gift bestowed upon us.
It is an identity stemming from a renewed understanding that humanity was made in the image of God, flowing from fresh knowledge that faith in Christ brings new life, established in the audacious love of the Heavenly Father and founded in the truth that ‘all who did receive Him [Jesus], to those who believed in His [Jesus] name, He gave the right to become children of God’. That is the greater, powerful, eternal identity that is on offer to us, regardless of how ‘successful’ others see us or we see ourselves.
Let’s face it, the lyrics to the anthem ‘Three Lions’ has been rewritten so many times that ‘thirty years of hurt’ is now sixty! Wouldn’t it be lovely to have ‘no more years of hurt’- because winning the World Cup is the answer to no more hurt, right? I know they were only talking about football, but as someone who grew up in a football obsessed house, I know many who would say: ‘this is more than just football’. History of the game and response to past failures suggest this to be true. The reality is that they touch on something far deeper than they realise: in our culture, our identity is often defined by achievement or lack thereof.
Don’t get me wrong. Should we win, I will be celebrating like crazy with everyone else and harping on about it every moment I get. But that’s all it will be – a moment. To be honest, the tournament has already had a memorable moment that will reach well beyond winning the trophy. No, not Messi’s hat trick or Vozinha's brilliant goalkeeping display as Cape Verde drew against Spain. Rather it was what happened after the game between Germany and debutants Curaçao.
It was the moment German players, Felix Nmecha and Jonathan Tah, joined several Curaçao players for prayer in the centre circle. Speaking after the match, Nmecha said, “In the game we are opponents, but after the match we are all Christians and brothers. We simply said a little prayer together because we are all very grateful”.
The reality is – life is full of passing moments. Even winning the World Cup will pass, and in four years it will all start again. But what Nmecha touched upon was something greater, something more meaningful, something eternal. This powerful example of Christian faith shows that humanity’s true identity and fulfilment in life is not founded on a moment of achievement or failure. Rather, it is an everlasting gift bestowed upon us.
It is an identity stemming from a renewed understanding that humanity was made in the image of God, flowing from fresh knowledge that faith in Christ brings new life, established in the audacious love of the Heavenly Father and founded in the truth that ‘all who did receive Him [Jesus], to those who believed in His [Jesus] name, He gave the right to become children of God’. That is the greater, powerful, eternal identity that is on offer to us, regardless of how ‘successful’ others see us or we see ourselves.
Confidence that this gift is not just for Christmas
Lisa Fairman-Brown,
Priest-in-Charge, St Mary Magdalene, Lyminster and All Saints, Wick
It’s already happened, my first nativity play of the year. I was the invited guest of the head teacher to the nursery classes’ debut performance.
How delightful it was to see the angels waving to their parents, the shepherds singing their hearts out, the king who threw his gift at the holy family, and then there was Joseph. On being passed baby Jesus, Joseph confidently tipped the baby headfirst into the manger. A classic nursery nativity moment!
Confidently – its root meaning is ‘with faith’ and that’s one of the things we see in the biblical accounts of the life of Joseph, Jesus’ earthly father.
In the midst of a very troubling situation, Joseph chose to exercise faith in God who spoke to him while he slept. God reminded him of his identity ‘Joseph, son of David’. God wants you and me to know that we too are called to be his beloved sons and daughters.
Secondly, through hearing from God, Joseph was able to overcome his fear and that’s something so many of us long to be able to do too.
Some 365 times God says in one way or another in the pages of the Bible to those who listen to him, ‘Do not be afraid’ and today he continues to speak peace to those who, with faith, wait on him for his words on which they can stand. How different might our 365 days of 2025 look if we too were to wait and listen to him, then stand firm?
Thirdly, God showed him the way forward and Joseph responded in obedience. I see so much joy in the life of those who follow God’s guiding, for as they do they find they lead lives of meaning and fruitfulness.
Finally, God showed Joseph that he was at work in his situation. When we truly know that, we can experience an unrivalled peace, even in the midst of life’s storms.
Christmas has become so many things to people, but supremely and at its heart it is about the gift-giver giving himself for you. As Jesus, God entered his own creation so that to all who would receive him, we might know God as our heavenly Father, who loves and cares for us today and every day. So that in Jesus, who is God the Son, we might know peace even in life’s storms; and so that, by faith, we keep following him and his commands with confidence.
How delightful it was to see the angels waving to their parents, the shepherds singing their hearts out, the king who threw his gift at the holy family, and then there was Joseph. On being passed baby Jesus, Joseph confidently tipped the baby headfirst into the manger. A classic nursery nativity moment!
Confidently – its root meaning is ‘with faith’ and that’s one of the things we see in the biblical accounts of the life of Joseph, Jesus’ earthly father.
In the midst of a very troubling situation, Joseph chose to exercise faith in God who spoke to him while he slept. God reminded him of his identity ‘Joseph, son of David’. God wants you and me to know that we too are called to be his beloved sons and daughters.
Secondly, through hearing from God, Joseph was able to overcome his fear and that’s something so many of us long to be able to do too.
Some 365 times God says in one way or another in the pages of the Bible to those who listen to him, ‘Do not be afraid’ and today he continues to speak peace to those who, with faith, wait on him for his words on which they can stand. How different might our 365 days of 2025 look if we too were to wait and listen to him, then stand firm?
Thirdly, God showed him the way forward and Joseph responded in obedience. I see so much joy in the life of those who follow God’s guiding, for as they do they find they lead lives of meaning and fruitfulness.
Finally, God showed Joseph that he was at work in his situation. When we truly know that, we can experience an unrivalled peace, even in the midst of life’s storms.
Christmas has become so many things to people, but supremely and at its heart it is about the gift-giver giving himself for you. As Jesus, God entered his own creation so that to all who would receive him, we might know God as our heavenly Father, who loves and cares for us today and every day. So that in Jesus, who is God the Son, we might know peace even in life’s storms; and so that, by faith, we keep following him and his commands with confidence.
November 2024 - Hold on to Hope for a Brighter Tomorrow
Joanne Gisbey - Arun Church
What are you hoping for? I wonder what comes to mind first, perhaps something small and insignificant or something big that has the potential to change everything for you? When we have hope, we hold on to the possibility of a brighter tomorrow. We hold on to the idea that there is more than what we face today.
This week in church we sang the song ‘Obsession’ by Delirious. The lyric “I feel lonely without hope” stood out to me. I began to think about hopelessness and hope. Hopelessness is a lonely place: it’s sinking in a stormy sea; it is cold and dark; it is emptiness, despair and ultimately death.
Hope is light in the darkness, life even in death, calm in the storm, warmth in the cold, love in place of loneliness, presence filling the emptiness, and promise in place of despair. As Emily Dickinson so beautifully wrote,
“Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune without the words,
And never stops at all,”
In this advent season we are bombarded by advertising campaigns on TV, social media and in the supermarkets telling us what we need, what we want and how our lives ‘should’ look. News and the media throw fear and despair at us. Sometimes it can feel like we are sinking in the middle of the crashing waves of the storms around us. We can feel hopeless in a chaotic world.
But the good news is there is a hope that anchors us. That hope is found in Jesus. The Bible is packed with prophecies that tell of Jesus’s coming, long before He was born.
“For to us a Child shall be born, to us a Son shall be given; And the government shall be upon His shoulder, His name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)
I love this quote by Corrie Ten Boom: “There is no pit so deep, that God's love is not deeper still; with Jesus, even in our darkest moments, the best remains, and the very best is yet to be.”
Jesus came to give us hope, He came to give us life and life to the full. He came to bring light, love, forgiveness, freedom, peace and salvation. Whatever we face today – nothing is too big for Him. Hold on to hope, for He holds on to you.
This week in church we sang the song ‘Obsession’ by Delirious. The lyric “I feel lonely without hope” stood out to me. I began to think about hopelessness and hope. Hopelessness is a lonely place: it’s sinking in a stormy sea; it is cold and dark; it is emptiness, despair and ultimately death.
Hope is light in the darkness, life even in death, calm in the storm, warmth in the cold, love in place of loneliness, presence filling the emptiness, and promise in place of despair. As Emily Dickinson so beautifully wrote,
“Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune without the words,
And never stops at all,”
In this advent season we are bombarded by advertising campaigns on TV, social media and in the supermarkets telling us what we need, what we want and how our lives ‘should’ look. News and the media throw fear and despair at us. Sometimes it can feel like we are sinking in the middle of the crashing waves of the storms around us. We can feel hopeless in a chaotic world.
But the good news is there is a hope that anchors us. That hope is found in Jesus. The Bible is packed with prophecies that tell of Jesus’s coming, long before He was born.
“For to us a Child shall be born, to us a Son shall be given; And the government shall be upon His shoulder, His name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)
I love this quote by Corrie Ten Boom: “There is no pit so deep, that God's love is not deeper still; with Jesus, even in our darkest moments, the best remains, and the very best is yet to be.”
Jesus came to give us hope, He came to give us life and life to the full. He came to bring light, love, forgiveness, freedom, peace and salvation. Whatever we face today – nothing is too big for Him. Hold on to hope, for He holds on to you.
October 2024 - Centuries-old vision still just as relevant
Jane Dahill - Littlehampton Local Quaker Meeting
This year Quakers around the world are celebrating the 400th anniversary of the birth of George Fox, the person generally accepted as the founder of the Simple, Radical and Spiritual movement which became the Religious Society of Friends, or Quakers.
George Fox was born in Fenny Drayton in Leicestershire in 1624. At 12 he was apprenticed to a local tradesman, but he lived in turbulent times – England was about to descend into civil war – and new ideas were taking hold. And so in 1643 he left home to seek “the truth”. Through listening to preachers and others he began to develop his own ideas, principally that everyone could have a direct relationship with God, through Jesus, so that priests were not needed. It was not long before he was in trouble with the authorities for the ideas he was spreading and the first of his many terms of imprisonment occurred as early as 1649.
In 1652 Fox climbed Pendle Hill in Lancashire where he had a vision of a “great people to be gathered” waiting for him. Soon afterwards he preached to a crowd of about a thousand on Firbank Fell, near Sedburgh. The beginning of the Society of Friends is usually dated from this time.
Although today not all Quakers hold to Fox’s belief that “there is one, even Jesus Christ, that can speak to thy condition”, the belief of that of God (or Good) in each of us remains central. Quakers talk of Letting their Life Speak and trying to Live Adventurously and this comes directly from Fox enjoining us that “… this is the word of the Lord God to you all, and a charge to you all in the presence of the living God: be patterns, be examples in all countries, places, islands, nations, wherever you come; that your carriage and life may preach among all sorts of people, and to them; then you will come to walk cheerfully over the world, answering that of God in everyone”.
The fundamental ideas and structures which he created still underpin the Society today, creating the bedrock of faith and support which enables Quakers to stand at the forefront of the issues currently challenging our society: poverty and inequality, climate change, speaking truth to power, and peace in all of its forms.
George Fox’s vision is as relevant today as it was 400 years ago.
George Fox was born in Fenny Drayton in Leicestershire in 1624. At 12 he was apprenticed to a local tradesman, but he lived in turbulent times – England was about to descend into civil war – and new ideas were taking hold. And so in 1643 he left home to seek “the truth”. Through listening to preachers and others he began to develop his own ideas, principally that everyone could have a direct relationship with God, through Jesus, so that priests were not needed. It was not long before he was in trouble with the authorities for the ideas he was spreading and the first of his many terms of imprisonment occurred as early as 1649.
In 1652 Fox climbed Pendle Hill in Lancashire where he had a vision of a “great people to be gathered” waiting for him. Soon afterwards he preached to a crowd of about a thousand on Firbank Fell, near Sedburgh. The beginning of the Society of Friends is usually dated from this time.
Although today not all Quakers hold to Fox’s belief that “there is one, even Jesus Christ, that can speak to thy condition”, the belief of that of God (or Good) in each of us remains central. Quakers talk of Letting their Life Speak and trying to Live Adventurously and this comes directly from Fox enjoining us that “… this is the word of the Lord God to you all, and a charge to you all in the presence of the living God: be patterns, be examples in all countries, places, islands, nations, wherever you come; that your carriage and life may preach among all sorts of people, and to them; then you will come to walk cheerfully over the world, answering that of God in everyone”.
The fundamental ideas and structures which he created still underpin the Society today, creating the bedrock of faith and support which enables Quakers to stand at the forefront of the issues currently challenging our society: poverty and inequality, climate change, speaking truth to power, and peace in all of its forms.
George Fox’s vision is as relevant today as it was 400 years ago.
September 2024 - Please Remember Persecuted Christians
Rory McClure, Pastor, Parkside Evangelical Church
One of the world’s many tragedies is the persecution of people for their religious beliefs. Despite that, it still comes as a surprise to many people that Christians are the world’s most heavily persecuted minority.
Article 18 of the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights is supposed to grant “everyone… the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.” Although Christians in some countries are the most heavily persecuted minority, Christians in freer countries are often at the forefront of advocating against all forms of religious persecution for all religions.
Nevertheless, we also care about our own.
Christian minorities are also frequently caught up in the crossfire of wars being fought between non-Christians. For example, 1 or 2% of the population of Gaza are Christian and among the 24,000 + adults and 16,000 + children killed in Gaza since 7 October 2023, a proportionate number of Christians have also been killed. Their churches too have been bombed in the cross fire. Bethlehem, famous for being the birth place of Jesus, is now in today’s Palestinian West Bank and the war in Gaza has had a devastating impact on their Christian community, as the conflict has destroyed the tourist economy they depended on.
In Ukraine, on 20 August 2024, the Ukrainian parliament voted to force the small Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOCMP) to break all ties with their mother church for fear that they were too pro-Russian. So now believers are faced with a choice between accepting a schism being forced on their church or allowing their church to lose all its property and bank accounts.
So why are Christians so heavily persecuted? Perhaps because they are often a politically ignorable minority or because in some countries some politicians can gain votes if they turn a blind eye to religious extremists seeking to ‘drive out’ this ‘foreign influence.’
Although Christians are told to keep their country’s laws, respect their governing authorities and pray for them, paranoid politicians and rabble rousers sometimes gain power by accusing local Christians of secretly being loyal to the USA, or acting as a front for the CIA, or even for being loyal to Russia.
So what can be done? Firstly, Christians should be praying about this and churches should be trying to work with organizations that speak on behalf of persecuted religious minorities.
And if you are not a Christian but a good-hearted person of another faith or of no faith, please stand with us.
Article 18 of the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights is supposed to grant “everyone… the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.” Although Christians in some countries are the most heavily persecuted minority, Christians in freer countries are often at the forefront of advocating against all forms of religious persecution for all religions.
Nevertheless, we also care about our own.
Christian minorities are also frequently caught up in the crossfire of wars being fought between non-Christians. For example, 1 or 2% of the population of Gaza are Christian and among the 24,000 + adults and 16,000 + children killed in Gaza since 7 October 2023, a proportionate number of Christians have also been killed. Their churches too have been bombed in the cross fire. Bethlehem, famous for being the birth place of Jesus, is now in today’s Palestinian West Bank and the war in Gaza has had a devastating impact on their Christian community, as the conflict has destroyed the tourist economy they depended on.
In Ukraine, on 20 August 2024, the Ukrainian parliament voted to force the small Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOCMP) to break all ties with their mother church for fear that they were too pro-Russian. So now believers are faced with a choice between accepting a schism being forced on their church or allowing their church to lose all its property and bank accounts.
So why are Christians so heavily persecuted? Perhaps because they are often a politically ignorable minority or because in some countries some politicians can gain votes if they turn a blind eye to religious extremists seeking to ‘drive out’ this ‘foreign influence.’
Although Christians are told to keep their country’s laws, respect their governing authorities and pray for them, paranoid politicians and rabble rousers sometimes gain power by accusing local Christians of secretly being loyal to the USA, or acting as a front for the CIA, or even for being loyal to Russia.
So what can be done? Firstly, Christians should be praying about this and churches should be trying to work with organizations that speak on behalf of persecuted religious minorities.
And if you are not a Christian but a good-hearted person of another faith or of no faith, please stand with us.
August 2024 - Sharing their Faith at the Olympics
Martin Garratt, Trinity Church, Littlehampton.
In the grand arena of the Olympic Games this summer, where athletes pushed the boundaries of human potential, a remarkable number of Christian athletes took the opportunity to share their faith in Jesus. These athletes, through their public declarations and personal testimonies, offer a compelling story of hope and joy that transcends the competitive spirit of the Games.
Brazilian surfer Gabriel Medina captured one of the most iconic moments of the Games with a stunning photograph of himself riding a massive wave. The caption read: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This powerful verse from Philippians reminds us that for followers of Jesus, strength and resilience come from God.
Another Brazilian competitor, Rayssa Leal, the 13-year-old street skateboarder pointed her fans to God after her victory. Leal, using American Sign Language, shared a verse from John’s Gospel: “Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” Her simple act has been reported around the globe.
The synchronised swimming pair from Great Britain also exemplifies faith in action. The team prays together before they compete, seeking God’s guidance and peace. Their collective faith not only bonds them together but also provides a source of confidence amidst the intense demands of their sport.
Adam Peaty won the silver medal in swimming. Known for his dedication and fierce competitiveness, Peaty often speaks about how his faith in Christ offers him a foundation that grounds him in humility irrespective of the race outcome.
And I must also mention Fiji's rugby team, which sings hymns and prays together before and after their matches, visibly demonstrating their gratitude and faith. I think the Rugby Sevens were probably my highlight this year.
These athletes highlight the profound impact of Christianity on their lives. Their stories are not just about personal achievement but about the transformative power of faith. In moments of victory and defeat, they find hope, joy, and comfort in Jesus, sharing a message that goes far beyond the Olympic podium.
In a world often focused on the transient, these athletes remind us of the eternal, providing encouragement to millions watching. Their faith is a testament to the enduring power of Christ’s love, inspiring countless others to explore and embrace their own faith.
Why not pop along to a church near you and discover what these sporting heroes have found to be true: Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.
July 2024 - After the 94th minute comes the 95th
Paul Sanderson MBE, Chaplain,
The Littlehampton & Sir Robert Woodard Academies
A lot can happen in a moment. If you watched the Euros and followed England, you might remember your feelings and emotions in the 94th minute of the England v Slovakia knockout game. Only a matter of seconds remained before England were to be dumped unceremoniously out of a cup we were favourites to win.
There was anger, there was frustration, and there was sadness: all emotions many of us can relate, often in hindsight, to far more important things. These 94th minute feelings are where we feel low or ‘down’ or sad. These are real emotions and we realise, now more than ever, that we need to talk about them and see what we can learn from them.
When we're feeling down, we should take time to lean into these feelings and ask what we can learn about ourselves and about what's going on. Often it takes someone to come alongside us, to encourage us, to remind us that we are loved and to cheer us on.
The England manager Gareth Southgate received so much hate and negativity that he had to switch off his mobile phone. But when asked, after winning the next game, how he coped with so much hate, he looked up and asked thoughtfully: “We all want to be loved, right?”. Just pause and reflect on that for a moment. The truth is that there's something deep inside us that wants to be liked, that wants to belong, that wants to be loved
And then there was the 95th minute. The Bellingham overhead kick. Then there was jumping off the sofa, hugging family and friends, dogs barking and thousands of people in streets, pubs and church halls going crazy as one moment changed the atmosphere, changed the momentum and ultimately changed the result of the game. The 95th minute moment is one that we all have had. Joy, happiness and celebration.
For those of us of faith we know, deep down, that whether we're in a ‘94th minute’ low or a ‘95th minute’ high, we are loved by God. God can't help but love us all, no matter what. Throughout history this message that God is love has often been lost.
But more and more of us are discovering a love so inclusive, so hopeful, so life-changing, answering that question “We all want to be loved, right?” So this summer enjoy the 95th minutes that you'll have with family or friends; and if you're experiencing the 94th minute, seek out those that you love, hold on tight and know that this moment too shall pass.
June 2024 - This Picture of God the Father
can be a Reality for us all
Darren Lewis, Minister at Littlehampton Baptist Church
It’s Saturday morning. Blurry eyed, a young boy tumbles out of bed and makes his way downstairs firmly holding the handrail. Walking into the lounge where classic cartoons are on the TV, he clambers onto the sofa and a cup of weak tea is brought to him by his Dad. Together they chuckle away before it was time to get ready for football practice.
It's a lovely picture. Well, to me it’s more than a lovely picture; it’s a fond memory of time spent with my Dad. Every June I find myself pondering over such memories with a smile on my face and often a tear in my eye. I am thankful that my Dad was a ‘goodun’. Sadly, my Dad died of cancer when I was 17.
Like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day stirs all sorts of thoughts and feelings by its sheer existence. Caring, difficult, distant, safe, and unknown are just some of the words people have used when talking about their father. Having spent well over a decade supporting and listening to people, particularly children and young people, I have heard first-hand the power of this relationship – or lack of it.
A great truth of the Christian faith is that God wants to be our Father and will become our Father should we want Him to. Accepting Jesus as our Lord and Saviour brings about adoption into God’s family. We become God’s child, He becomes our Heavenly Father. One who doesn’t treat us harshly, or neglects or harms us, and who isn’t untrustworthy or absent. Rather, He is kind, compassionate, caring, completely dependable, present and loving.
Jesus told a story of a son who asked for his inheritance whilst his father was still alive, and then went off and squandered it all – something considered shocking and hurtful in those days. After some time, the son came back heavy-hearted, ashamed and humbled. We are told that when the father saw his son returning in the distance, he was filled with love and compassion. Shockingly to everyone, the father immediately ran to his son, held him tight and kissed him.
This story is also more than a lovely picture; it’s how God responds when we seek to turn to Him. He rushes to us, embraces, restores us and loves us. Whatever our relationship with our earthly father(s) might be and however we are feeling post-Father’s Day, this final picture can be a reality for us all.
It's a lovely picture. Well, to me it’s more than a lovely picture; it’s a fond memory of time spent with my Dad. Every June I find myself pondering over such memories with a smile on my face and often a tear in my eye. I am thankful that my Dad was a ‘goodun’. Sadly, my Dad died of cancer when I was 17.
Like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day stirs all sorts of thoughts and feelings by its sheer existence. Caring, difficult, distant, safe, and unknown are just some of the words people have used when talking about their father. Having spent well over a decade supporting and listening to people, particularly children and young people, I have heard first-hand the power of this relationship – or lack of it.
A great truth of the Christian faith is that God wants to be our Father and will become our Father should we want Him to. Accepting Jesus as our Lord and Saviour brings about adoption into God’s family. We become God’s child, He becomes our Heavenly Father. One who doesn’t treat us harshly, or neglects or harms us, and who isn’t untrustworthy or absent. Rather, He is kind, compassionate, caring, completely dependable, present and loving.
Jesus told a story of a son who asked for his inheritance whilst his father was still alive, and then went off and squandered it all – something considered shocking and hurtful in those days. After some time, the son came back heavy-hearted, ashamed and humbled. We are told that when the father saw his son returning in the distance, he was filled with love and compassion. Shockingly to everyone, the father immediately ran to his son, held him tight and kissed him.
This story is also more than a lovely picture; it’s how God responds when we seek to turn to Him. He rushes to us, embraces, restores us and loves us. Whatever our relationship with our earthly father(s) might be and however we are feeling post-Father’s Day, this final picture can be a reality for us all.
May 2024 - Worship at Home and in Mombasa
Chris Azzaro, Littlehampton United Church
After a wet Early May Bank Holiday Monday, it was good to see the sunshine this morning. Apart from watching the rain accumulate on my driveway, I have also been paying attention to the rainfall in Mombasa, Kenya, where, by the time you read this article, I will be visiting a school. There have been reports of widespread flooding in the coastal areas there. The Government of Kenya even delayed the start of the new school term, ordering all schools to remain closed for an extra week.
Then came news that Cyclone Hidaya was heading for the Kenyan coast. Fortunately, the cyclone appears to have died out off the coast of Tanzania and I’m pleased to say that Unity School, with which I am involved, has not been flooded this time.
Just before I leave for Kenya, I will be celebrating Pentecost. One of my favourite Sundays on which to preach. In Africa some things that we question in the UK are celebrated with much more fervour; and I’m looking forward to joining in a school assembly where, I am sure, the “Birthday of the Church” will be celebrated with enthusiasm.
Singing in harmony appears to come naturally to African children and traditional percussion; clapping, drums and banging their wooden desktops just adds to the vibrancy of worship. That the Gifts of The Spirit are still given for the proclamation of the Kingdom of God is taken for granted. One can feel that the words of the Prophet Joel (Acts 2: 16 -17) have been written anew for our own generation: “I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men shall see visions and your old men shall dream dreams.”
What is the vision that I have been given for a school in a poor part of a large African city? According to the website of the charity, Friends of the Mombasa Children (www.mombasachildren.org.uk), it is “to provide equitable opportunities for young people to escape the poverty trap by providing relevant education in a safe haven.” At Unity School this means manageable class sizes, free midday meals, primary healthcare and a secure setting, described by one visitor as ‘A haven of calm’.”
Finally, how does Pentecost inspire me to work towards these goals? The fire that fuelled the apostles in Acts chapter 2 is still available to those who work for the glory of God. We serve a Living God who still makes himself known in ways we often do not expect.
Then came news that Cyclone Hidaya was heading for the Kenyan coast. Fortunately, the cyclone appears to have died out off the coast of Tanzania and I’m pleased to say that Unity School, with which I am involved, has not been flooded this time.
Just before I leave for Kenya, I will be celebrating Pentecost. One of my favourite Sundays on which to preach. In Africa some things that we question in the UK are celebrated with much more fervour; and I’m looking forward to joining in a school assembly where, I am sure, the “Birthday of the Church” will be celebrated with enthusiasm.
Singing in harmony appears to come naturally to African children and traditional percussion; clapping, drums and banging their wooden desktops just adds to the vibrancy of worship. That the Gifts of The Spirit are still given for the proclamation of the Kingdom of God is taken for granted. One can feel that the words of the Prophet Joel (Acts 2: 16 -17) have been written anew for our own generation: “I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men shall see visions and your old men shall dream dreams.”
What is the vision that I have been given for a school in a poor part of a large African city? According to the website of the charity, Friends of the Mombasa Children (www.mombasachildren.org.uk), it is “to provide equitable opportunities for young people to escape the poverty trap by providing relevant education in a safe haven.” At Unity School this means manageable class sizes, free midday meals, primary healthcare and a secure setting, described by one visitor as ‘A haven of calm’.”
Finally, how does Pentecost inspire me to work towards these goals? The fire that fuelled the apostles in Acts chapter 2 is still available to those who work for the glory of God. We serve a Living God who still makes himself known in ways we often do not expect.
April 2024 : LET SONGS CHANGE THE ATMOSPHERE
Joanne Gisbey, Arun Church
I remember a friend once telling me she didn’t like music, any music. I couldn’t help the look of shock, surprise and disbelief spreading across my face. “You don’t like ANY music?” I asked. “Well…” She continued, before listing various songs and artists that she did in fact enjoy listening to. She reconsidered: “On second thoughts, I suppose I do like some music.”
This interaction has stuck with me, the idea of a life without music felt empty. I love music and I believe that God not only created music but loves it too. The Bible references music hundreds of times. Music is powerful; it changes the atmosphere. Think of your favourite movie and its soundtrack. Think of a song that carries memories of people or places. Through music we can experience joy, fear, sadness, anger, excitement, strength and peace. Music can bring healing and hope.
On Good Friday the churches of Littlehampton got together for the ‘Walk of Witness’ through Littlehampton town centre, finishing in a service at Littlehampton United Church. The church, built in 1861, was packed; the sound of singing filled the building, the sound of voices of all ages, from different backgrounds and different churches coming together to sing and worship was a beautiful sound. It was a sound of togetherness and unity. In a world often divided, how wonderful to sing together as one, with one purpose – to worship Jesus Christ, our saviour and king.
I’m writing this at the table in my living room by the piano. Next to it are two guitars, one trumpet, one flute and two of everyone’s all-time favourite instrument – the recorder. No-one is playing them; they lie still and silent. All it takes is one of these instruments to be picked up and played and the whole atmosphere is changed. There is life where once was stillness; beauty enters the emptiness.
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music with the harp and the sound of singing.” (Psalm 98:4-5)
Whatever style of music you enjoy, classical to indie, pop to rock, hip-hop to folk, let your songs change the atmosphere. Let them bring light and life, unity and togetherness. “Let them bring glory to God, the one who loves you and who rejoices over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17).
This interaction has stuck with me, the idea of a life without music felt empty. I love music and I believe that God not only created music but loves it too. The Bible references music hundreds of times. Music is powerful; it changes the atmosphere. Think of your favourite movie and its soundtrack. Think of a song that carries memories of people or places. Through music we can experience joy, fear, sadness, anger, excitement, strength and peace. Music can bring healing and hope.
On Good Friday the churches of Littlehampton got together for the ‘Walk of Witness’ through Littlehampton town centre, finishing in a service at Littlehampton United Church. The church, built in 1861, was packed; the sound of singing filled the building, the sound of voices of all ages, from different backgrounds and different churches coming together to sing and worship was a beautiful sound. It was a sound of togetherness and unity. In a world often divided, how wonderful to sing together as one, with one purpose – to worship Jesus Christ, our saviour and king.
I’m writing this at the table in my living room by the piano. Next to it are two guitars, one trumpet, one flute and two of everyone’s all-time favourite instrument – the recorder. No-one is playing them; they lie still and silent. All it takes is one of these instruments to be picked up and played and the whole atmosphere is changed. There is life where once was stillness; beauty enters the emptiness.
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music with the harp and the sound of singing.” (Psalm 98:4-5)
Whatever style of music you enjoy, classical to indie, pop to rock, hip-hop to folk, let your songs change the atmosphere. Let them bring light and life, unity and togetherness. “Let them bring glory to God, the one who loves you and who rejoices over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17).
March 2024 : Journeys
Rev Mark Williams, Vicar of Littlehampton, St Mary and St James.
Are we nearly there yet? The words most parents dread hearing, ten minutes after starting off on a long car journey or the holiday flight.
As we come to the culmination of the season of Lent and look towards the festivities of Easter, perhaps for many the same words roll easily off our lips. Yes, after six weeks of Lenten observance we are indeed nearly there. But it is not yet quite the moment to reach for the overhead locker for the hand luggage. The plane has not yet fully come to a stop. There is still some turbulence to negotiate before we reach the final destination. Easter is within touching distance, but there is perhaps the most important Lenten journeying still to undertake.
Lent consists of a series of journeys. Journeys of great contrast. From remembering the forty days Jesus spent in the wilderness resisting the temptations of the devil to recalling His joyous, triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, riding on a donkey and being greeted rapturously by the crowds. From focusing on the painful journey of Jesus carrying His cross to the place of His crucifixion on Good Friday to the journeys of those who went early on Easter morning and found the tomb empty. And journeying too with the unwitting disciples, returning home to Emmaus on that first Easter evening, who at first do not recognize the companion who walks with them but who later come to realise that this is none other than the risen Jesus.
It is these great journeys at the culmination of Lent that perhaps we learn the most from for today. Throughout Lent – and particularly on Good Friday – many Christians observe the devotion of Stations of The Cross. Reflecting on fourteen `stops` along the way as Jesus carries His cross. Amongst those stops noticing, for instance, how Jesus falls under the weight. Yet each time mustering the strength and will to get back on His feet and carry on – a lesson to us about perseverance in the face of adversity. Along the way too, thinking of Simon of Cyrene being pulled from the crowd to help share the weight – and similarly Veronica who wipes Jesus` sweaty, bloodied face – and asking ourselves whose burden might we be able to help ease by walking alongside them, offering our support. Or giving thanks for those who help lighten our load.
The journey through Lent and into Easter is ultimately one of darkness to light. Of despair to joy. As we journey through life, may that which we learn from this season fill us all with light and hope.
February 2024 : What to do when a seal says hello?
Paul Sanderson MBE, Chaplain, The Littlehampton & Sir Robert Woodard Academies
I recently had the privilege of going on a three-day silent retreat to the West Coast of Ireland. Many laughed at the thought of me being quiet for three minutes, let alone three days.
We live in a noisy world. Phones pinging, music playing, people talking. Even the “quiet” carriage on a train has the regular announcements. In schools silence is relegated to exams, fire drills and detentions, not the most fun of experiences.
So my bag was packed with thoughtful books, a new note pad and all-weather gear.
I arrived by the side of the sea, at the foot of a mountain, phone off and ready to shut up and listen to the wild silence and see if my Maker had anything to say.
Keem Bay often makes the top 10 beaches in the world. It’s right on the edge of Europe, and in the summer you cannot move for tourists in campervans and cars blocking up the winding mountain road.
The only time the sun was predicted to come out was Thursday, so I got up early and drove the road, avoiding the sheep and the sheer drop. The car park was empty and for three hours it stayed that way. Just me and the sound of crashing waves, singing birds and the sudden appearance of a seal by the shore.
I looked around as it looked around, its head bobbing gently with the waves; at home in my new favourite space. Just us, the two of us, in the most beautiful of places.
I felt a peace, that really did ‘pass all understanding’. Was this a gift for me at this moment in time? Nothing else mattered. I was lost in something bigger than me. It was as though someone had hit the pause button on life.
I have not forgotten that morning when a seal said hello. I have become aware that moments like that are all around – if we can make time to stop and gaze, and take in the gift of a bird flying, the sun rising, or a person smiling.
Jesus once said “My peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
In a world of so much noise, anxiety and fear, I wonder if we can spot the day-to-day things that are all around us, ready to bring peace – for a moment at least. Keep looking and – you never know – you might spot a seal.
January 2024 : The Timeless Tale
Martin Garratt, Trinity Church, Littlehampton.
Christmas seems like a distant memory during these dark cold months. Yet, beneath the twinkling lights and the exchanged gifts, the tinsel and mince pies, there can be a bitter taste of strained family relationships and the ache of loved ones no longer with us.
The theme of broken relationships is often explored in films and books, and it is central to the stories we read in the Bible: Cain falling out with his brother Abel; Joseph being sold as a slave by his brothers; and even Jesus being betrayed by a close friend.
Like any good story, we long to see these broken relationships restored and this is exactly what the Bible story is all about.
Often reconciliation between brothers, as we can read in Genesis 45, when Joseph and his family are reunited, but also on a much grander scale.
The whole Bible narrative is a timeless tale of a God of love, our rebellion, and His relentless pursuit of reconciliation.
At its core, the Bible is not merely a collection of disjointed verses but a cohesive saga—a love story. It speaks of God's unfathomable love for His creation.
Every chapter echoes this theme of divine love weaving through the lives of flawed individuals, showcasing God’s grace and mercy towards each one of us.
This love story finds its climax in Easter – the pinnacle of Christian faith.
We enjoy the bunnies and colourful chocolate eggs; but at its core Easter is the celebration of love in its purest form – the ultimate act of love – Jesus Christ sacrificing His life for humanity.
His crucifixion and subsequent resurrection mark the pinnacle of God’s love story, offering redemption and a restored relationship with the divine.
As winter fades into the promise of spring, let your heart be drawn to this enduring tale.
A tale that transcends time, linking the manger to the cross. It beckons us to find our place within this grand story, to discover the profound depths of God's love – a love that extends to every individual, encompassing the entirety of creation.
In the interlude between Christmas and Easter, let us reflect on this wonderful story of God’s unending love for all, inviting us into a life-transforming relationship with him.
As we anticipate the joyous celebration of Easter, may this love story resonate in our lives, illuminating our path with hope, grace, and boundless love.
The theme of broken relationships is often explored in films and books, and it is central to the stories we read in the Bible: Cain falling out with his brother Abel; Joseph being sold as a slave by his brothers; and even Jesus being betrayed by a close friend.
Like any good story, we long to see these broken relationships restored and this is exactly what the Bible story is all about.
Often reconciliation between brothers, as we can read in Genesis 45, when Joseph and his family are reunited, but also on a much grander scale.
The whole Bible narrative is a timeless tale of a God of love, our rebellion, and His relentless pursuit of reconciliation.
At its core, the Bible is not merely a collection of disjointed verses but a cohesive saga—a love story. It speaks of God's unfathomable love for His creation.
Every chapter echoes this theme of divine love weaving through the lives of flawed individuals, showcasing God’s grace and mercy towards each one of us.
This love story finds its climax in Easter – the pinnacle of Christian faith.
We enjoy the bunnies and colourful chocolate eggs; but at its core Easter is the celebration of love in its purest form – the ultimate act of love – Jesus Christ sacrificing His life for humanity.
His crucifixion and subsequent resurrection mark the pinnacle of God’s love story, offering redemption and a restored relationship with the divine.
As winter fades into the promise of spring, let your heart be drawn to this enduring tale.
A tale that transcends time, linking the manger to the cross. It beckons us to find our place within this grand story, to discover the profound depths of God's love – a love that extends to every individual, encompassing the entirety of creation.
In the interlude between Christmas and Easter, let us reflect on this wonderful story of God’s unending love for all, inviting us into a life-transforming relationship with him.
As we anticipate the joyous celebration of Easter, may this love story resonate in our lives, illuminating our path with hope, grace, and boundless love.
December : Is it true that Christmas starts earlier every year, or does it just feel that way?
Chris Azzaro, Littlehampton United Church
Is it true that Christmas starts earlier every year, or does it just feel that way? Certainly, the television advertising or the Christmas displays in local garden centres encourage us to prepare earlier every year. Throw into the mix the relatively new phenomenon of Black Friday and one could wonder if Christmas was about anything other than spending a large amount of money. Such an assumption would be very wrong, however. For most families the central part of Christmas is the family gathering. A time when relatives and friends spend time together for the few days when the demands of work are relaxed.
Christians have strived for years to tell the greatest story ever told and explain what Christmas is really about – sometimes getting a reputation of being kill-joys. In fact during the time of Oliver Cromwell, starting in 1644, Christmas celebrations were forbidden. Even churches could be fined for holding special services on Christmas Day, and shops were ordered to stay open. Historians appear to agree that these measures were pretty unpopular and, with no national police force, were not widely enforced. In 1660 Charles II, who enjoyed a good celebration, took the throne and such laws were repealed. (Some would say the Merry Monarch enjoyed celebrating just a little too much!).
If we wish to change the emphasis from commercialism to spiritual appreciation, there are some ways that will work and others that won’t. Perhaps we should think of all the commercial advertising as free publicity for celebrating the season of Christ’s birth. Presenting the Nativity in the High Street when the town Christmas lights were turned on was a great example of what can be done.
So when does the church think Christmas should begin. For centuries the fifth Sunday before Christmas has been known as “Stir Up Sunday”, from the opening phrase of the prayer for the day: “Stir up, O Lord the loins of your faithful people….” A tradition emerged that this was the day to stir up the Christmas pudding, giving it the correct time to mature before it was eaten on Christmas Day.
The four Sundays in Advent progressively raise the stakes as Christmas Day gets closer. We light our advent candles each Sunday and the journey to Christmas Day is well underway. But if journeys are worth taking, the destination has to be good.
One local school asked students to write a sentence that one of the traditional characters in a nativity scene might have said to the baby Jesus. The one that stuck out for me, simply said “ A difficult journey, but what a great ending”. Wishing you a very happy Christmas.
Chris Azzaro, Littlehampton United Church
Christians have strived for years to tell the greatest story ever told and explain what Christmas is really about – sometimes getting a reputation of being kill-joys. In fact during the time of Oliver Cromwell, starting in 1644, Christmas celebrations were forbidden. Even churches could be fined for holding special services on Christmas Day, and shops were ordered to stay open. Historians appear to agree that these measures were pretty unpopular and, with no national police force, were not widely enforced. In 1660 Charles II, who enjoyed a good celebration, took the throne and such laws were repealed. (Some would say the Merry Monarch enjoyed celebrating just a little too much!).
If we wish to change the emphasis from commercialism to spiritual appreciation, there are some ways that will work and others that won’t. Perhaps we should think of all the commercial advertising as free publicity for celebrating the season of Christ’s birth. Presenting the Nativity in the High Street when the town Christmas lights were turned on was a great example of what can be done.
So when does the church think Christmas should begin. For centuries the fifth Sunday before Christmas has been known as “Stir Up Sunday”, from the opening phrase of the prayer for the day: “Stir up, O Lord the loins of your faithful people….” A tradition emerged that this was the day to stir up the Christmas pudding, giving it the correct time to mature before it was eaten on Christmas Day.
The four Sundays in Advent progressively raise the stakes as Christmas Day gets closer. We light our advent candles each Sunday and the journey to Christmas Day is well underway. But if journeys are worth taking, the destination has to be good.
One local school asked students to write a sentence that one of the traditional characters in a nativity scene might have said to the baby Jesus. The one that stuck out for me, simply said “ A difficult journey, but what a great ending”. Wishing you a very happy Christmas.
Chris Azzaro, Littlehampton United Church
November Are you ready?
Darren Lewis, Minister at Littlehampton Baptist Church
Questions. Life is full of them. The cheeky child with the repetitive ‘Why?’ (Thankfully
my three-year-old has not discovered this yet.) The almost inevitable long journey
favourite of ‘Are we there yet?’ (Once again, I am thankful my three-year-old has not
discovered this one either.) As we get older it turns into ‘How’s work?’ or ‘How’s
things?’
This year I found myself being faced with the same question continually. As August
approached and with it the impending arrival of our second child, the question that
came thick and fast was: ‘Are you ready?’ As September – and my role at
Littlehampton Baptist Church – approached, the question came again: ‘Are you
ready?’ As November approached and with it our relocation to Littlehampton, again it
was: ‘Are you ready?’ As December approaches and with it the start of Advent I am
once again faced with the question ‘Are you ready?’
It is the obvious and correct question to ask. Let’s face it, Christmas is a busy time
and giving it a bit of thought does help. There is family to see, parties to attend and
presents to be bought, wrapped and passed on. In my case, they’re often referring to
whether I have planned, and am ready for, the services and events that will be taking
place. However, as much as it is the right question, there is another angle from
which this question can be posed. One that is of greater significance and which
merits careful consideration – the Advent Angle.
Advent for many of us (myself included) is a time of preparation. A time where we
prepare for the big day by eating chocolates (buttons in my case), putting up the
decorations and watching countless Christmas films and TV repeats. But it was and
is intended to be so much more. Still a time of preparation for an important someone,
just a different someone; one not in a red suit. One whose presence is the present,
whose joy lasts longer than batteries, whose peace cannot be broken like a toy,
whose hope cannot be turned off like a set of lights and whose love cannot be
restricted by how far our bank balance can go. It is a time for us to prepare ourselves
for Jesus Christ, by preparing our hearts not our homes.
So I wonder, from all angles, including the Advent Angle, are you ready? My prayer
for us all comes from the words of the Apostle Paul: ‘May the God of hope fill you
with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the
power of the Holy Spirit.’
my three-year-old has not discovered this yet.) The almost inevitable long journey
favourite of ‘Are we there yet?’ (Once again, I am thankful my three-year-old has not
discovered this one either.) As we get older it turns into ‘How’s work?’ or ‘How’s
things?’
This year I found myself being faced with the same question continually. As August
approached and with it the impending arrival of our second child, the question that
came thick and fast was: ‘Are you ready?’ As September – and my role at
Littlehampton Baptist Church – approached, the question came again: ‘Are you
ready?’ As November approached and with it our relocation to Littlehampton, again it
was: ‘Are you ready?’ As December approaches and with it the start of Advent I am
once again faced with the question ‘Are you ready?’
It is the obvious and correct question to ask. Let’s face it, Christmas is a busy time
and giving it a bit of thought does help. There is family to see, parties to attend and
presents to be bought, wrapped and passed on. In my case, they’re often referring to
whether I have planned, and am ready for, the services and events that will be taking
place. However, as much as it is the right question, there is another angle from
which this question can be posed. One that is of greater significance and which
merits careful consideration – the Advent Angle.
Advent for many of us (myself included) is a time of preparation. A time where we
prepare for the big day by eating chocolates (buttons in my case), putting up the
decorations and watching countless Christmas films and TV repeats. But it was and
is intended to be so much more. Still a time of preparation for an important someone,
just a different someone; one not in a red suit. One whose presence is the present,
whose joy lasts longer than batteries, whose peace cannot be broken like a toy,
whose hope cannot be turned off like a set of lights and whose love cannot be
restricted by how far our bank balance can go. It is a time for us to prepare ourselves
for Jesus Christ, by preparing our hearts not our homes.
So I wonder, from all angles, including the Advent Angle, are you ready? My prayer
for us all comes from the words of the Apostle Paul: ‘May the God of hope fill you
with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the
power of the Holy Spirit.’
October : Town Chaplains are unsung heroe
Martin Garratt, Trinity Church, Littlehampton
In the heart of our community lies a group of unsung heroes, the Littlehampton Town Chaplains, whose dedication and compassion have been a beacon of hope for countless individuals in our town. These individuals, inspired by their Christian faith, offer friendship, support, and a listening ear to all who need it, embodying the teachings of Jesus in their service to the community.
Picture this: a bustling market street where people from various walks of life go about their daily tasks. Among them are the Town Chaplains, recognisable by their welcoming smiles and Chaplain uniforms. Rain or shine, they are a regular presence on a Friday in the town, ready to provide comfort and assistance to anyone seeking help.
Their role extends far beyond spiritual counsel; it encompasses being a friend to the lonely, a confidante to the distressed, and a source of strength to the struggling. Their unwavering commitment to helping others has created a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals, fostering a sense of community and unity within our town.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Littlehampton Town Chaplains' work is their ability to bridge divides and offer support without judgement. Regardless of an individual's background, faith, or circumstances, they extend a compassionate hand and a non-judgmental ear, exemplifying the love and inclusivity that Jesus encourages.
Their actions echo the teachings of Jesus, who emphasised the importance of loving one's neighbour and caring for those in need. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus instructs his followers to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the sick, and provide comfort to the imprisoned, emphasising that whatever we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do for Him (Matthew 25:35-36).
As we approach the season of goodwill, it's fitting to express our deepest appreciation to the Littlehampton Town Chaplains for their tireless efforts in our community. Their acts of kindness and selflessness have touched lives in ways that words alone cannot convey. When you next see them in town, why not stop and show your appreciation for all they do to make a difference in our town. Perhaps their example might be an encouragement to us all to show love and kindness to those we meet.
See photo below
Picture this: a bustling market street where people from various walks of life go about their daily tasks. Among them are the Town Chaplains, recognisable by their welcoming smiles and Chaplain uniforms. Rain or shine, they are a regular presence on a Friday in the town, ready to provide comfort and assistance to anyone seeking help.
Their role extends far beyond spiritual counsel; it encompasses being a friend to the lonely, a confidante to the distressed, and a source of strength to the struggling. Their unwavering commitment to helping others has created a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals, fostering a sense of community and unity within our town.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Littlehampton Town Chaplains' work is their ability to bridge divides and offer support without judgement. Regardless of an individual's background, faith, or circumstances, they extend a compassionate hand and a non-judgmental ear, exemplifying the love and inclusivity that Jesus encourages.
Their actions echo the teachings of Jesus, who emphasised the importance of loving one's neighbour and caring for those in need. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus instructs his followers to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the sick, and provide comfort to the imprisoned, emphasising that whatever we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do for Him (Matthew 25:35-36).
As we approach the season of goodwill, it's fitting to express our deepest appreciation to the Littlehampton Town Chaplains for their tireless efforts in our community. Their acts of kindness and selflessness have touched lives in ways that words alone cannot convey. When you next see them in town, why not stop and show your appreciation for all they do to make a difference in our town. Perhaps their example might be an encouragement to us all to show love and kindness to those we meet.
See photo below
September: BEING GRATEFUL FOR WHAT WE HAVE
Joanne Gisbey, Engagement Lead and Leadership Team, Arun Church.
“I’m so hungry! When can we get some food?” says my youngest daughter five minutes into a stroll through a picturesque village in the Loire Valley.
My nephew echoes the pleas, “I’m so, so hungry Auntie Jo. Where is the café? When can we stop?”
I reply, trying to stay calm, “We ate just before we left. You're ok for now.”
“Why are we even on a walk?” my daughter begins again. I stop, take a deep breath, and pause before responding.
“Do you know what I love about walks?” Two blank faces look up at me. “Finding something beautiful in every step.”
They look unimpressed yet decide to take on this challenge. Before long they have found: geckos, exotic looking bugs, sticks, flowers and even half a baguette! They are climbing, jumping, searching, finding, exclaiming and laughing.
How often do we think about what we want or need, feeling frustrated, anxious or angry when we don’t get it there and then?
Would our days look different if we stopped to see the beauty around us?
What might we find, see and discover if we pause to be thankful for what is right in front of us?
Practising gratitude is widely recognised in improving mental well-being and can help with anxiety, stress, low-mood and depression. It can be as simple as writing a list of small or big things we are thankful for.
Perhaps for the breath in our lungs, the trees, a bed, a warm shower, slippers, a hot cup of tea, a chat with a friend or the stunning sea on our doorstep.
The Bible has many verses about thankfulness. God knows how important this is for us.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
Paul writes that we are to bring our requests to God, to ask Him for what we need but, he adds, to do so with thanksgiving.
God loves us. He knows what we need and the longings in our hearts.
He also knows that sometimes what we actually need is different from the thing we think we need. Sometimes the very act of practising gratitude is the thing that we need.
This week set yourself a daily challenge to try this out. What are you thankful for?
Can you find something beautiful in every step?
My nephew echoes the pleas, “I’m so, so hungry Auntie Jo. Where is the café? When can we stop?”
I reply, trying to stay calm, “We ate just before we left. You're ok for now.”
“Why are we even on a walk?” my daughter begins again. I stop, take a deep breath, and pause before responding.
“Do you know what I love about walks?” Two blank faces look up at me. “Finding something beautiful in every step.”
They look unimpressed yet decide to take on this challenge. Before long they have found: geckos, exotic looking bugs, sticks, flowers and even half a baguette! They are climbing, jumping, searching, finding, exclaiming and laughing.
How often do we think about what we want or need, feeling frustrated, anxious or angry when we don’t get it there and then?
Would our days look different if we stopped to see the beauty around us?
What might we find, see and discover if we pause to be thankful for what is right in front of us?
Practising gratitude is widely recognised in improving mental well-being and can help with anxiety, stress, low-mood and depression. It can be as simple as writing a list of small or big things we are thankful for.
Perhaps for the breath in our lungs, the trees, a bed, a warm shower, slippers, a hot cup of tea, a chat with a friend or the stunning sea on our doorstep.
The Bible has many verses about thankfulness. God knows how important this is for us.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
Paul writes that we are to bring our requests to God, to ask Him for what we need but, he adds, to do so with thanksgiving.
God loves us. He knows what we need and the longings in our hearts.
He also knows that sometimes what we actually need is different from the thing we think we need. Sometimes the very act of practising gratitude is the thing that we need.
This week set yourself a daily challenge to try this out. What are you thankful for?
Can you find something beautiful in every step?
31 August : The Importance of Little Things in Life
Rev Mark Williams, Vicar of Littlehampton, St Mary and St James.
One of the Big-Screen hits this summer – Oppenheimer – tells the story of how during World War Two physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer was appointed by the US government to work with a team of scientists developing and designing the atomic bomb. Their work would come to fruition on July 16th 1945 as they witnessed the world`s first nuclear explosion. Just a few weeks later, on 6th August, the new weapon would be dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and subsequently Nagasaki, not only shifting the course of the second world war but changing too the course of the world for ever. Such are the events of world history – moments in time that make us what we are today.
For most of us ordinary folk, changing the world may seem like an insurmountable task. It is only, it seems, a very select few who are ever going to be in a position to effect such a change that will be written about in the annals of history. But that is to underestimate ourselves. Changing the world does not mean that you have to be the richest, most powerful person on earth. I remember once reading somewhere someone saying: `Changing the world starts with one person with an attitude. Change the way you look at life… it`s the little things in life that one day become the big things. Don’t ever doubt the importance of little things. Small acts when multiplied by millions of people can transform the world`
This is very much a Christian perspective too. So much of the course of the last 2000 years of human history finds its foundation in the life of Jesus and the testimony of those whose lives were transformed by being in His presence. Ordinary everyday folk, such as the first disciples, who were often to be found on the margins of society and who could not possibly have imagined how their witness would transform the world. Even today, when the Christian faith is claimed by many to be on the decline, there are still over two billion Christians across the world. All because of the testimony of a handful of early believers.
So let us never underestimate the power within us to make positive change. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world. Change the way you look at life. Compliment a stranger. Hold the door open for someone. Let someone pass you in traffic when you are in a hurry. You may change someone’s day. And you may just change the world, starting one person at a time.
For most of us ordinary folk, changing the world may seem like an insurmountable task. It is only, it seems, a very select few who are ever going to be in a position to effect such a change that will be written about in the annals of history. But that is to underestimate ourselves. Changing the world does not mean that you have to be the richest, most powerful person on earth. I remember once reading somewhere someone saying: `Changing the world starts with one person with an attitude. Change the way you look at life… it`s the little things in life that one day become the big things. Don’t ever doubt the importance of little things. Small acts when multiplied by millions of people can transform the world`
This is very much a Christian perspective too. So much of the course of the last 2000 years of human history finds its foundation in the life of Jesus and the testimony of those whose lives were transformed by being in His presence. Ordinary everyday folk, such as the first disciples, who were often to be found on the margins of society and who could not possibly have imagined how their witness would transform the world. Even today, when the Christian faith is claimed by many to be on the decline, there are still over two billion Christians across the world. All because of the testimony of a handful of early believers.
So let us never underestimate the power within us to make positive change. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world. Change the way you look at life. Compliment a stranger. Hold the door open for someone. Let someone pass you in traffic when you are in a hurry. You may change someone’s day. And you may just change the world, starting one person at a time.
July 2023 : Houseplants and Spirituality
Rev Mark Rodger, Curate at All Saints, Wick.
Over the last decade I’ve joined the trend of buying houseplants. One of my favourites though is the spider plant. If you’ve not seen one, you’ll find lots of them in my favourite community coffee shop, Creative Heart. Back in lockdown we were on a family walk around the block and someone had left lots of spider plants in paper cups to take. Since then it’s grown, produced beautiful white flowers and lots of baby spider plants (that are apparently called “spiderettes”) which hang down from the bookshelf like a cascading waterfall. Until recently it lived on a shelf in the bathroom until my one-year-old managed to reach it and almost pulled it on top of herself! We’ve moved it now.
Over the last years I’ve enjoyed looking at the vibrant greens and whites, the delicate flowers and those spiderettes. But it’s also made me think a lot. There have been times when I’ve forgotten to water and feed it, and because the spider plant is so big with so many spiderettes, it goes a pale green. Inevitably the spiderettes suffer first. When that happens I’ve sometimes wondered whether I’m more like the vibrant green plant or the pale plant. I’ve wondered how much this affects those I’m connected to – my wife, children, friends, my local community, and my church community where I help lead?
We’re all like plants which need water, food and light. One of the ancient writers of the Bible called David was reflecting on this and said that those who delight and meditate on God’s Word in the Bible are like “a tree replanted in Eden, bearing fresh fruit every month, never dropping a leaf, always in blossom” (Psalm 1:3). We were made for Eden, to enjoy an intimate relationship with God, hearing Him speak to us and answering Him with simple honesty and, often, gratitude. If I’m honest, I know there’s been plenty of times I’ve wanted to do my own thing, not listen to Him or speak to Him, to be separate from Him. Is it any wonder that when I look back at those times I can see that the vibrancy disappeared? It’s because we were designed to be connected with God. And because of God’s amazing kindness He came in the person of Jesus to reconnect us to God, to give us that restored relationship, if we want it back.
June 2023 : I loved the early starts.....
Paul Sanderson MBE, Chaplain, The Littlehampton & Sir Robert Woodard Academie
As an apprentice roofer in the 80s I loved the early starts, café breakfasts and climbing ladders or scaffolds to make homes across London waterproof.
It was one such sunny morning that we arrived on site to look at a flat roof that was leaking into the bathroom. I had watched my boss and tried my best to learn fast – so, along with the worried owner, the four of us measured up and found the area that was leaking. Me, trying to impress, did the whole ‘push down the soft bit of felt with my steel-capped toe’ thing. I could feel it was not good; but then suddenly this part of the roof collapsed, with its rotten wood, small stones and damaged felt falling into the bathroom below.
I was full of apologies and felt like a fool, but the owner was strangely calm and took up my offer to help clean up the bathroom. We fixed the roof, and I was reminded repeatedly, for weeks, at my attempts to have an early bath.
On another roof, in a village called Capernaum in present day Israel, four friends brought their sick friend to meet Jesus one day. The house he was in was packed with people and there was no way to get in. Their love for their friend, matched with determination and belief that meeting this man could make a big difference, led them to come up with another plan.
They put the paralyzed man in a bed sheet and carried him up to the roof. Then, to the shock of the owner, they started to break open the roof. As dust and light and small bits of rubble fell into the room, you can imagine the anger and confusion as the earth-made ceiling landed in their hair. Then with strength and care they lowered him through the hole they had made, resting him gently at Jesus’ feet.
A conversation ensued, full of words of love and faith and care and compassion.
The courage of the friends was rewarded with the sight of their friend standing up, brushing himself down and walking out of the house they had partly destroyed.
In the 80s we had to the take up the roof, so that a new one could be laid. There are times in life where we sometimes feel it’s all a mess, but often it turns out all right in the end.
April 2023 : Good Friday was just as it should be
Chris Azzaro, Littlehampton United Church.
The weather at Easter is not always what we hope for. I always think of Easter as a marker for the return of Spring, yet when Easter is early that can be a false hope. This year, Good Friday was just as it should be – a fine Spring Day, comfortably warm and no sign of any rain. As I joined the huge crowd that gathered on the lawn outside the United Church, I had that comfortable feeling that all was right with the world. Yet Good Friday is a solemn day when we remember the death of Christ on a cruel cross. Somehow the uplifting sunshine and the wonderful singing almost contradicted the reason for the event.
In contrast – and in true British fashion – by Easter Sunday the weather had changed to wet and windy! On the day we celebrate the resurrection, when we think of all the springtime trappings of Easter that we enjoy, those who organised outdoor events were looking at Plan B – indoors!
On the first Easter Sunday, the followers of Jesus were securely indoors, but not because of the weather. When a would-be Messiah was caught and executed, the Roman authorities usually rounded up all his followers and dealt out the same punishment. Jesus’ disciples, we are told in John’s Gospel (ch20 v19 etc), were locked in a room for fear of the Jews. No doubt waiting for a knock on the door that would signify their impending fate. But that did not happen.
Something else, that took them totally by surprise, did happen. Jesus appeared in their midst and greeted them with the traditional greeting “Shalom” – Peace be with you. Unbelievable? In fact, it was so unbelievable that one disciple, Thomas, who was missing at the time, roundly told the others exactly what he thought of their story. Poor Thomas, for twenty centuries he has been called “Doubting Thomas” for expressing his honest opinion.
The story did not end there. A week later all the disciples were again together and this time Thomas was present. When Jesus appeared and invited him to examine his wounds, Thomas was utterly convinced. Jesus was alive. Jesus then made a statement that inspires us still, “You have seen and believed, Blessed are those who have not seen but believe”.
Understanding what happened all that time ago can be difficult. Perhaps by putting ourselves in the position of those in the first century, as they came to understand the resurrection, will help us know that we, who have not seen, are still blessed through the Resurrection of our living Lord Jesus Christ.
March 2023 : WHO IS THIS MAN?
Roger Purdom, Retired Church Pastor
As I came into the courtyard, a girl came up to me and started talking about a man who had just been brought into the courtyard.
“What man?”, I said.
“That man over there. You came in with him. Who is he?” “I don’t know who you are talking about”.
As she walks away, another girl comes up and says, “That man over there in the
Corner. You’re one of his friends, aren’t you?”
I was getting a little annoyed and I wanted to shout. Why are they pestering me? They seemed to be behaving as if we had been friends for ages.
I told her the same thing as I had told the other girl, but with a slightly raised voice. “Leave me alone, will you! I don’t know who this man is. Back off!”
Just when I thought everything had died down, some man came to me and said, “Hello there. I don’t think we have met but I noticed you came in with that man over there. Who is he? You seem to know him, don’t you?”
I lost it. I started to swear. I got really angry. This time I did shout. “Get off my back! I don’t know who that man is. I am not with him. Do you understand?”
I started to walk away. I thought it best if I left the courtyard. As I left, I looked across to see this man in the corner, and my eyes met his eyes and I started to cry because I did know him.
He looked at me and then I remembered. Sometime before this incident, he told me that I would deny knowing him three times before the cock crowed and that’s just what I had done. I had let him down.
This man is Jesus. I had spent three years with him and he told us that he was going to be crucified but I said that wouldn’t happen. My name is Peter.I have let him down. I have denied knowing him. I wept.
Yes, he was crucified but he came back to life, and he gives us hope for the future if we put our trust in him. He forgave me because he loved me and he longs, this Easter, to be part of your life now and in the future.
February 2023 : Things Change!
Jon Jolly - Arun Church.
I regularly walk into Littlehampton town centre with my family. Over the past year on our journeys, we have watched the transformation of the High Street. The old brick paving has been ripped up and replaced with more modern and vibrant yellow slabs, while the flower beds and railings have also gone to make way for new street furniture.
Although I like the new look, not everyone appreciates these changes. The work has been disruptive for retailers, pedestrians, and traffic. My daughter says she prefers the previous paving. But as I find myself saying to her, things change and there’s a lot that is beyond our control!
In the Bible, God is often described as ‘unchanging’. This could be misunderstood as rigid, obstinate, or outdated. But that’s not what it means. The Bible is clear that God is loving and enjoys relationship with us. There is story after story of how God changes his mind and adjusts his actions in response to people (including Abraham and Moses). Jesus turned the world on its head when he encouraged his followers to pray to God as a loving father who responds to our prayers!
So, if God is responsive in his actions toward us, why is He described as unchanging? It’s a statement about his character. In Exodus 3:14 when speaking from a burning bush, God tells Moses his name. He says "I am who I am." This phrase can be translated in a few ways and one of these is ‘Whatever I am, I will be’ or more clearly, ‘Whatever I am like, I am like that consistently.’ God's very name tells us that his character is reliable.
In a world where things constantly change around us, we can be left feeling lost and confused. People come and go, big events like earthquakes and wars occur, and local High Streets have a facelift. But in all the uncertainty of life, I find it greatly encouraging that God is reliable and consistent. He is unchanging and He responds to us when we seek Him.
Although I like the new look, not everyone appreciates these changes. The work has been disruptive for retailers, pedestrians, and traffic. My daughter says she prefers the previous paving. But as I find myself saying to her, things change and there’s a lot that is beyond our control!
In the Bible, God is often described as ‘unchanging’. This could be misunderstood as rigid, obstinate, or outdated. But that’s not what it means. The Bible is clear that God is loving and enjoys relationship with us. There is story after story of how God changes his mind and adjusts his actions in response to people (including Abraham and Moses). Jesus turned the world on its head when he encouraged his followers to pray to God as a loving father who responds to our prayers!
So, if God is responsive in his actions toward us, why is He described as unchanging? It’s a statement about his character. In Exodus 3:14 when speaking from a burning bush, God tells Moses his name. He says "I am who I am." This phrase can be translated in a few ways and one of these is ‘Whatever I am, I will be’ or more clearly, ‘Whatever I am like, I am like that consistently.’ God's very name tells us that his character is reliable.
In a world where things constantly change around us, we can be left feeling lost and confused. People come and go, big events like earthquakes and wars occur, and local High Streets have a facelift. But in all the uncertainty of life, I find it greatly encouraging that God is reliable and consistent. He is unchanging and He responds to us when we seek Him.
January 2023 : God goes with us, but also before us.
Tom Robson - Vicar of All Saints Wick and Lyminster Churches.
New Year is often associated with new beginnings - new gym memberships, new diets, new commitments and sometimes new questions about our hopes and dreams for the year ahead. I’ve been thinking a lot about a new start for myself and my family as we prepare to move on to a new vicar role on the other side of Chichester.
When we’ve told people, they’ve often asked a similar question: ‘how are you feeling about that?’
And my honest answer is that it’s a real mix. We’re excited to start somewhere and find out why we believe God has called us there, but at the same time we’ll be very sad to leave a church family and a local community that we’ve enjoyed so much over the last 6-7 years.
Maybe you’ve had that same split feeling about something new? Excitement mixed with sadness or at least uncertainty. It can be hard, and both feelings can exist powerfully side by side.
The reality is that we never know what’s coming up, or how a change will be, or what it will feel like once the new thing isn’t new any more. And that uncertainty can be quite unsettling.
That’s why I’m so grateful to believe and trust in Jesus, who is described as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. God can, unlike us, see all that stretches out in front of us.
Of course, that doesn’t guarantee that everything will be plain sailing or that we’ll always have a clear path to follow. I think we can make our journey through life along different ways and God is able to somehow weave that into his plans for his people.
And it gives us this incredible hope that, along the journey, He not only goes with us, but also before us.
From our perspective we may walk on into the unknown with all the mix of anticipation and sometimes trepidation, but there is a higher perspective that has already seen, already knows, is already preparing the way.
December 2022 : Rescued from a storm drain.
Martin Garratt, of Trinity Church Littlehampton.
A dear friend of mine, living in Mumbai, India, was walking home one night. As usual, there were no street lights. The road ahead was in total darkness. This shouldn’t have been a problem as he had walked that road many times before. Unbeknown to him, someone had removed a large iron storm drain cover. As he stepped forward he plummeted down into the wet, stinking storm drain below. Bruised and battered from the fall, and soaking wet, he was trapped in the darkness. He had no way of escaping. He needed a rescuer, someone from above who could reach down and lift him out.
It feels like we are in darkness at the moment with the cost-of-living crisis, the conflict in Ukraine, and so much uncertainty about the future. For many, it can feel like we have fallen down a storm drain. We are emotionally bruised, financially struggling, and can’t see any way of escaping the fear we have about the future.
The Bible tells us that we all walk in spiritual darkness. The darkness we find ourselves in is so dark, it is as if we are blind. We are trapped in the darkest recesses of the storm drain of life. Each of us needs rescuing. We can’t escape the darkness on our own. Just like my friend in Mumbai, we are all in need of a rescuer.
My friend, stuck in that storm drain, called out into the darkness. A passer-by heard his cry and switched on his phone’s torch. It is amazing how reassuring a light can be when we have been in darkness. This stranger didn’t just reach down to lift my friend to freedom. He climbed into the drain and helped him find freedom.
This is the good news of Christmas. In Psalm 18 we read that God turns our darkness into light. Jesus didn’t just shine his light on us whilst we remain trapped in the storm drain of life. He didn’t just reach down from heaven to lift us out. God himself came to earth, as a man. He joined us in our darkness and, as Isaiah prophesied, Jesus will guide us and turn our darkness into light. For He is the Light of the World.
A dear friend of mine, living in Mumbai, India, was walking home one night. As usual, there were no street lights. The road ahead was in total darkness. This shouldn’t have been a problem as he had walked that road many times before. Unbeknown to him, someone had removed a large iron storm drain cover. As he stepped forward he plummeted down into the wet, stinking storm drain below. Bruised and battered from the fall, and soaking wet, he was trapped in the darkness. He had no way of escaping. He needed a rescuer, someone from above who could reach down and lift him out.
It feels like we are in darkness at the moment with the cost-of-living crisis, the conflict in Ukraine, and so much uncertainty about the future. For many, it can feel like we have fallen down a storm drain. We are emotionally bruised, financially struggling, and can’t see any way of escaping the fear we have about the future.
The Bible tells us that we all walk in spiritual darkness. The darkness we find ourselves in is so dark, it is as if we are blind. We are trapped in the darkest recesses of the storm drain of life. Each of us needs rescuing. We can’t escape the darkness on our own. Just like my friend in Mumbai, we are all in need of a rescuer.
My friend, stuck in that storm drain, called out into the darkness. A passer-by heard his cry and switched on his phone’s torch. It is amazing how reassuring a light can be when we have been in darkness. This stranger didn’t just reach down to lift my friend to freedom. He climbed into the drain and helped him find freedom.
This is the good news of Christmas. In Psalm 18 we read that God turns our darkness into light. Jesus didn’t just shine his light on us whilst we remain trapped in the storm drain of life. He didn’t just reach down from heaven to lift us out. God himself came to earth, as a man. He joined us in our darkness and, as Isaiah prophesied, Jesus will guide us and turn our darkness into light. For He is the Light of the World.
Photo Courtesy by Benjamin Suter on Unsplash
