When the Russian armed forces crossed the border into Ukraine, as well as the cries of outrage and disbelief that were given voice in prayer and on social media, there were conversations of compassion and murmurs of mercy. In Stapleford, efforts were quickly coordinated to get emergency supplies to the suffering people and to help evacuate those who wished to flee and who already had family in the UK. A local builder and his Polish colleague took three vans of goods collected by the communities of the Beane Valley Benefice and brought back to safety 40 refugees.
Here are some photographs of the churches in action…
Well done to all concerned!
If you are keen to help, there is more information on the Diocesan website about how you and your parish might get involved; click here.
In other news…
The Annual Report from Synod for 2021 and other useful information for circulation and discussion at APCMs is now available (here). Synod members, please attend your parish meetings prepared to give a positive account of how the Deanery can support mission and ministry in the parish. And do encourage volunteers to step forwards to serve on our project teams!
Draft minutes of Synod and committee meetings are also now available for Synod members (log in to access these). It was good to be meet our new Diocesan Secretary and to hear something of both his vision for his work and his passion for the gospel. It was also most helpful to hear a clear and comprehensive report from our Deanery’s new link with General Synod. There is much to do as we pray, “Let your Kingdom come” and it is encouraging to hear that the national church is engaging with important matters.
I pray you have a profound experience of the grace of God this Holy Week and Eastertime.
Revd Mark Dunstan