Dear friends at All Saints,
The last month or so has not been the easiest time in the life of All Saints as a number of our people have been experiencing health problems, suffering and sorrow. Paul in his first letter to the Christians in Corinth in which he describes believers as being part of the Body of Christ has a word that speaks powerfully into our present situation. In 1 Corinthians 12:26 he writes; “If one part (of the body) suffers, every part suffers with it …… .” The letter to the Christians in Rome in chapter 12 focuses on a similar theme and encourages the believers in 12:15 to “rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” This week we mourn the loss of our dear brother in Christ, Ron Glenn. His passing has come as a terrible shock to us all and we grieve with Helen, and with Ron’s daughter and her family. As well as mourning his loss we can quietly rejoice that he is with Jesus and will be enjoying the next part of his life.
Ron set a tremendous example of how to be an effective member of the Body of Christ. His can-do attitude helped him to contribute so much of a positive nature to the life of All Saints. His willingness to serve God often meant he was the first to respond to needs and enabled him achieve so much on behalf of the Body of Christ in Chester and beyond.
Helen has said, as you will have read earlier this week, how much she would welcome contact and visits. This will be one very appropriate way of standing with her and showing her our love.
The recruitment process for appointing our new vicar is continuing. There is no further definite news since a short-list was agreed last week. However, Andy Creeth and Julie Tynegate are continuing to liaise with Simeon Trust staff about the final arrangements for the interviews and as we get closer to the date they will keep us informed about progress and developing prayer needs. In the meantime please do keep praying that God’s voice will be heard and the Holy Spirit’s leading experienced.
Some will know that Reg Bolton was taken into hospital over last weekend with breathing difficulties. He has several clots on his lungs and was apparently due to see a cardiologist today (Wednesday). Please do pray for Reg and Jane and for family and friends who are supporting them.
Also, Andy Creeth is staying with his mother this week and she is due to have a blood transfusion today (Wednesday). Please pray for Andy and his family at what is a stressful time and for his Mum that her health will not deteriorate further.
On a happier note, Vicki Bulgin’s recovery from surgery has been very positive for which we can rejoice and give thanks.
Finally and by way of encouragement, God is no stranger to the cries of His people. The Bible gives us moving examples of deep expressions of grief, sorrow and weeping. Jesus experienced the death of his friend Lazarus and wept in response and for those who mourned. As we go through the coming weeks we pray that we will all experience the comfort and support of Jesus.
May God bless you.
John Chester and Andy Creeth, Church Wardens