Dear All,
Well we have managed to make the move from Preston to Kirkham without too much trouble! With hindsight a move between Christmas and New Year wasn't one of my wisest ideas, but the warm welcome we have received has more than compensated for my ambitious planning!
Nicola and I have been overwhelmed with the warmth of welcome we have received from the church family and people within the parish. From bottles of wine and flowers left on the doorstep to kind words expressed in cards posted through the door, to people showing me around Kirkham - it has been a wonderful reception, I couldn't have wished for a more positive start. So, let me begin by saying 'thank you'.
The churchwardens of this parish have been outstanding throughout my move from Preston to Kirkham. Maralyn and Jane have come over to Preston in the last few months and met with me on several occasions. They have both been extremely supportive of me and my family and made our transition extremely smooth, evidenced, not least, in attending my final Service at Preston.
I am writing this letter a week before the Licensing Service. One is often apprehensive before commencing a new job or ministerial post and I am no different. However, with what has been said to me about the parish, in respect of the opportunities it has to offer, I can only but look on my new position with positivity and hope. I look forward to all of us working together to proclaim God's kingdom of unconditional love and forgiveness.
In the ten years I have been ordained I have always held closely to my heart the following values and characteristics which I believe should shape a church family: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control" (St Paul's Letter to the Gaiations 5:22). These fruits of the spirit that St. Paul talks about ought to be etched on our hearts and minds. So, as we begin to work together let's not lose sight of St Paul's words, both in our dealings with one another and with those we seek to serve.
Yours in Christ
Rick Bunday
PS - Please note that my Rest Day will usually be on a Saturday. |