What I have learned so far is that things can be done differently ...but only when the time is right. This applies very much to my life and to the churches in our benefice. The Rector@6 has been here over a year and gradually there are little bubbles of change surfacing - some only just visible - some might rise too quickly and burst and others will hopefully continue to grow, so that everyone can enjoy them. The need for change is becoming more urgent as the ministry team is depleted at the moment and you can only stretch a rector so far!
It is about trusting that we are working together and considering everyone's needs - not following an individual agenda. It is about listening and hearing God and what people need. It is about waiting - waiting until the resources or ideas are right for everyone. And that's what the Rector@6 has been doing - inevitably he will be too slow for some and too fast for others but hopefully no one will be lost from the flock that way.
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| English bluebell woods smell amazing! |
Applying the same approach to my life has been difficult - there have been times when I would have loved to get involved - and would end up taking the lead I suspect (a trait of many teachers!). I am learning to stand back - I am able to run off to the horses and breathe deeply - and things still happen. I have been truly blessed (yes blessed - I would never have used that in the past) with the surroundings we have found ourselves in.
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| This morning's new foal up at the farm |
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| Tess finds rural life suits her very well |
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| Evening rides are very special. |
Glad that things are going well. Making change happen is important, but change must be made in a timely fashion, as you rightly note.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and Bear hugs!
Ah, working together, as community. That is needful in any church. As for change, gradual is much better than quick, for sure. Even the smallest change can set someone off! Do enjoy your time with the dogs and horses. You need that time just to clear away the challenges and the ups and downs of your busy week. Blessings.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to hear that those bubbles of change are starting to surface after your patient waiting. So much better that going in determined to change things before you've got to know the people and the places. Enjoy your beautiful surrounding and your lovely animals and find out where you too can get involved.
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