We are living in strange and unsettling times: the signs of spring are all around us with their promises of summer to come and yet we are experiencing the challenges of coronavirus and restrictions that are unprecedented in peacetime. At a time of crisis, when we would long to gather with our church family so that we can turn to God together, we are advised to keep apart in order to protect one another and our wider community.

The Archbishops of Canterbury and York announced at lunchtime that in light of the Government guidance around non-essential contact, public worship is suspended until further notice. We are going to abide by this advice at Sunnyside and St John’s, Bourne End. Therefore sadly there will be no services on Wednesdays or Sundays in either church with immediate effect and until further notice. We will be updating the church website on Thursday with information about how we can continue to worship together in these days, support one another and share the love of God with our neighbours. Meanwhile, do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of help or you want a chat.

It is entirely understandable that many of us are concerned and fearful about what coronavirus and the coming months will bring. The unknown is very often disconcerting and unsettling. However, we do not need to be afraid for God is with us. Whether we are with others or home alone. God is with us. Whether we are feeling brave or fearful. God is with us. Whether we are well or ill. God is with us. God is with us and that makes all the difference. The Psalmist puts it this way:

God is our refuge and strength,
    an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
    and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
 though its waters roar and foam
    and the mountains quake with their surging.
Psalm 46.1-3

So let’s be of good courage and face the coming days confident in the knowledge that ‘God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in trouble’.

with love and prayers

Rebecca