As a newcomer to Surlingham I was very impressed by the gathering at Tuesday’s Parish Council meeting. A strong sense of care for the community shone through the discussion, especially for those who will go through difficult and lonely times in times ahead. There was also a sharing of practical wisdom about what could be achieved.
The parish church would like to support this important work and offers four ingredients:
Hope – finding strength in a common cause and looking beyond the present crisis to the future
Kindness – sharing Christ’s compassion through word and action. Sometimes the small things we do have the biggest impact
Prayer – asking God to bless our community and those in greatest need
Service – using our time and ability to help and support
There is a team in our parishes who are happy to offer telephone or e-mail support to offer companionship and reassurance during your time of isolation. Please call me or Helen on 01508 538014 or e-mail us nickgarr39@aol.com broadsidecurate@aol.com if you’d like to chat.
For the time being it won’t be possible to hold public services, but the work of the Church happens in other ways. St. Peter’s church will be open daily for visitors to reflect and pray. There are lovely walks around there- why not call in? There is a prayer tree in church where you’re welcome to leave messages and prayers. I will come in from time to time to pray over them. A weekly sheet with prayers, readings and a short service will be available by e-mail or post if you would like a copy.
For Mothering Sunday (March 22nd) we will video a short service that can be viewed on the Rockland Churches Facebook page (if we can figure out how to do it!) Palm crosses will be left in church at the start of Holy Week (April 5th) and can be delivered to homes. To break through any sense of isolation, we suggest lighting a candle at 6pm each day, knowing that others are doing the same.
If there is anything else you feel that we could help with or support, please let us know. Please remember – YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
With love and prayers,
Nick Garrard
Information received from Nick Garrard, Rector
Surlingham 