July message from Rev Phil

Dear Friends,

The Methodist Church makes provision for its ministers to take a three-month sabbatical break from the routine of ministry every seven years – this year, in my case! By the time you read this letter, I will have already started my sabbatical and I will be absent from the circuit from mid-May to mid-August.

This is not an extended holiday but an opening to do something different, as a way of being refreshed in ministry; an opportunity to ‘power down’ and to get away from a hectic, diary-driven ministry, in order to spend more focused time with God. It is a requirement and not an option for ministers to take their sabbatical break.

There have been two main aspects to consider in planning the sabbatical. The first has been to decide how I should use the time. For your interest, I am pressing on with studies begun through Leeds University (which could lead to the award of a PhD), reflecting on my work across the two circuits, and what it means to talk about boundaries in ministry. My next step is to conduct some pilot studies, so some of you might see me around on occasion. I am also hoping to explore a bit more of my family history – since being in Bradford I have come to realize that my Drake family roots are in the Bradford/Halifax area, and I am hoping to learn more about Thornton in the 16^th and 17^th centuries.

Finally, I get to have a whole string of ‘proper’ weekends, which means we will be able to spend more time as a family.

The second aspect of sabbatical planning has been to make sure that there is adequate cover and provision made during my period of absence. I have been able to do this with the help of a sabbatical support group, which has consisted of a circuit steward from each circuit and Rev. Ian Griffiths (who has just returned from sabbatical himself). One of the good things about having a team ministry is that cover is provided from within the team, so that no special arrangements need to be made. So I would like to offer my thanks to everyone who has helped my sabbatical to happen.

I hope all of you have a blessed summer, and that each one of you will find at least a little space for rest and renewal in the months ahead.

Rev Phil

Comments

Soupermums! Wilsden Trinity Church

Do you have a young baby? Looking for something to do? If the answer is yes then Soupermums is for you. We're here from 11 until 1 every Monday, Mums (and dads) have a rest and the babies can play. Have a lovely sit down whilst you sip on a brew. Enjoy having someone else make lunch for you! Come along to Wilsden Church, meet the rest of the group. Lovely ladies cuddle the babies, whilst you eat your soup. Chat with the mums, new friends you will make. Swap tips and advice over a slice or two of cake. So what are you waiting for? come on along, For homemade treats, good company and if you're lucky a song. We're looking forward to meeting you, please come take a peek, 11-1 at Wilsden Trinity, we're here every week! Celine V (a Soupermum!) Where can new mums go, to have lunch where it’s warm and safe and you get to eat fresh soup and homemade cakes, while someone holds your baby? Too big an ask? Not at Wilsden Trinity! Every Mond...

Exploring Church Membership

I am planning some sessions on church membership to take place during the spring. These are suitable for: Someone who has been coming to church for a while and is now interested in taking the next step into becoming a member of the church; Someone who has been coming a long time but for whatever reason has not become a member in the past; Someone who has come into Methodism as a member of another denomination and would like to know more about membership in the Methodist Church. I am aware that a number of churches in the circuit are LEPs and I will bear this in mind in the sessions offered, depending on where the participants come from. I already have a number of names of individuals, but I would be grateful if you could let me know of anyone else who may be interested in taking up church membership. The emphasis will be on exploring the meaning of membership. Attendance on the course does not require a prior commitment to become a member, but opportunit...

Share the joy of Christmas with older people

The most important Christmas Card you’ll send this year Methodist Homes (MHA) are asking YOUR CHURCH to share the joy of Christmas with older people this year. Could you take the time to write just one extra Christmas card which will be passed to an older person cared for by MHA? To take part, please refer to the further details and an order form . Instructions of how to take part, as well as special Christmas cards designed by an MHA resident for your church members to write their own messages of goodwill and friendship, are included in the Christmas Friendship Appeal pack. “May I express my gratitude for your lovely idea of asking folk (including children) to send Christmas cards. We appreciate the warmth and concern of the whole idea.” MHA Resident

Bradford North Circuit

Search This Blog