It was strange being back in my old stomping ground in Harrogate. It’s a beautiful place although it doesn’t hold too many great memories for me. We moved there as a family and I had my secondary education which was not the most glorious of life’s experiences. Few could deny how beautiful the Stray, the parkland around the town and many of the gardens and parks, complimented by pleasing architecture, built on the affluence of the town is delightful for both residents and the many visitors who come to the once famous spa town. We were in Harrogate on the eve of our Community Chapter meeting in Ripon the following day. Trevor and I had journeyed down from Northumberland linking up with Floor who had flown over from Holland and Ken who had come in from Belfast. A great evening over an Indian meal brought conversations that ranged from deep and profound to the absurd and ridiculous; blokes stuff! The following day we met with other members of the Community Chapter and had a really good morning sharing, praying and being together. Returning home, four of us dropped into Acton Home Farm and were thrilled by the transformation that is taking place. Plans and hopes were being transferred into reality. It was a privilege to witness Ken’s enthusiasm as this was his first visit.
The following morning we met as Overseers with our Community Trustees. Big issues, important matters, challenging faith ventures. Good people. In the Hild liturgy we read the prayer, Lord show me the right seat, the fitting task and the willing heart. Over the weekend it was a privilege to see this prayer answered in the lives of those who share with us in the wider leadership network. The gift of Community!
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