You won’t be able to miss me as summer show finally returns
In the past month, I have visited seniors in local nursing homes, and overseen the refurbishment of one of our community buildings, as well as visiting toddler groups.
I have married a number of wonderful couples and helped families say goodbye to loved ones who had died.
I have welcomed children and adults as I baptised them in a christening service and then I have sung and laughed with children at three school assemblies.
My reward for all that was receiving numerous splats in the face as I stood in the stocks at the Big Bedhampton Jubilee Picnic.
Week in and week out across the Portsmouth area, you’ll find church leaders and members doing all that and much more.
It is a privilege to be involved with all of these people. It is immensely fulfilling and I love it.
Perhaps the thing which I appreciate the most is that those activities – and most of what we do as a local church – have one thing in common: Community!
Ninety-five per cent of what we do and what our buildings are used for is not worship, but instead, acting as a service to our local community.
We share love and practical help with others, and in return love, appreciation and the occasional wet sponge flow back.
Everyone is a winner when we come together in community.
Perhaps that is why community is and always has been a focus for the local church. The best of that community participation and sharing was seen during lockdown, but it does not need to stop there.
Let us continue to look out for one another, let us turn the tide of self-obsession and focus on building and strengthening our local communities.
Talking of which, I am off now to prepare for the next big community event in Bedhampton.
The Bedhampton Summer Show is finally back after three whole years and I cannot wait to see all of our community again.
I shall be the first person at Bidbury Mead on Saturday, July 2 – at 2pm.
You will easily be able to spot me on the day, just look out for the one wearing the slightly loud clergy shirt with the big smile on his face as our community comes together and unites once more.