Time to reflect upon those who have been involved in our life’s journey

I am writing this after having supported one of our local schools in exploring what is important about Remembrance or Armistice Day. This follows after playing a part in the Memorial Day service last night and the very powerful celebration of those Souls who have died (and those who are still with us) and the reading of their names.

I thought it would be worthwhile to reflect upon what - and how - our response should be to those who have played such an important part in both our lives, emotions and spiritual journeys. I know within the team here at RM we hold very different opinions of what happens at death, and that is, in itself, a very important part of being in a team: a team that works together to celebrate difference. For me, this is also a very important part of celebrating how diverse it can be to be part of the Anglican Communion (Whatever that means).

I think, therefore, the quote from Fr Gustavo Gutierrez;

“The freedom to which we are called presupposes going out of oneself, the breaking down of our selfishness and of all the structures that support our selfishness; the foundation of this freedom is openness to others. The fullness of liberation – a free gift from Christ – is communion with God and other human beings”

Has to have a huge impact on the way we live with others, and how we reflect upon those who have meant and mean so much to us.

We have to acknowledge we live in a very difficult world, where to flow against humanity is not seen as an acceptable way of life. But as Christians, we are called to do this, to share our faith journeys and to celebrate those who mean so much to us. So as you each read this, and study it, I pray that each one of us in our ministries may reflect this in our days, lives and words, loves and that may God continue to bless each one of you this day, this hour and this minute and be assured you’re all very much in our prayers for your Christian journeys this All Souls and Remembrance Tide.  

Rev Fr Bruce