The Church is shut but not shut.

The Church is shut but not shut

Hi

As I walked my dogs through the parish the other day I got a real feeling of contrasting emotions. Near my home I get some of the most beautiful views of one of my favourite places, 'Pendle Hill'. It can be seen throughout the parish and is a great source of encouragement. It's like a huge magnet, reminding myself I should get up there as soon as possible.

On the other hand the sights can be a little less delightful, as I walked down one of the streets with boarded up windows. I was listening to my usual musical diet of 'Depeche Mode' and 'Leonard Cohen' when I heard a muted cry of 'Fr Alex', Fr Alex' I looked up to observed a half dressed individual smiling at me and asking 'What was I doing round here?' I smiled back and replied, 'Praying'. Standing in one place for a moment, soon became an infusion of C class narcotics that was somewhat overwhelming. 'What are you praying for'?was the next question, I had to think for a moment, what was I actually praying for on this actual street, that was cluttered with litter, and cars and glass and a atmosphere of emotional distress? 'Oh i'm just praying that things get better', I replied. 'That's nice, when are you singing another song', she said. You see I do these silly little tunes that I post from time to time, and she caught me unaware that my musical madness had reached such parts in a troubled street in a troubled town in East Lancashire. 'My response, 'I'm always singing my love', and I am I suppose, always  metaphorically try to sing the name of Jesus in many different guises, through words and actions. 

The Corona virus is unprecedented in our life time and will have far reaching consequences once nations get on top of matters which i'm confident they will. One of the consequences is that we will all have to change, and I hope for the better.

The thought of not working is frightening for many people but is it really that frightening? When was the last time you stopped for anything other than sleeping? The pace of life has become absolutely frantic for so many people, so fast that they can't stop unless they are forced to. So just for  a moment.

1. Stop working for money.

2. Start working for yourself.

3. Stop shopping to cram your freezers and shelves to bursting point.

4. Start sharing what you can.

5. Stop worrying.

6. Start creating.

7. Stop hurting.

8. Start loving.

9. Stop gathering.

10. Start believing.

If we are to change our habits because of a virus, then seek the positive things that change can bring us all. Community, Charity, Compassion and care. If you are forced to stop work, use the break for your good. Read, walk and talk, discover the opportunities rather the consequences. These challenging times will bring out the best in you if you allow them to. Keep your sense of humour, keep being faithful and keep in touch with each other. This virus will offer a radical contrast to your present situation, in the 'unusual', embrace the 'practical' and the 'delightful' and all will be well. 

Pray things get better,

till next time, love and prayers

Fr Alex

Vicar, St Matthew the Apsotle with Holy Trinity Habergham Eaves.