Parish Newsletters

A parish newsletter, written by the vicar, is published each month. The current issue is printed below.

PARISH NEWSLETTER No. 65 (January 2009)

The new year of 2009 ahead of us seems full of dark foreboding on the economic front. World-wide recession, caused by lack of financial regulation and discipline, debt, and financial fraud, has led to huge financial losses and unemployment and home repossessions. It seems strange that given one of the causes of our plight is personal and national debt that the government things that encouraging greater debt is the best way to fight recession rather than government-led public and capital projects. At least that way we tax-payers will see something for our money at the end of the day. If interest rates are going to be so low that saving is not worth it, that will not produce the capital that is needed to shore up the financial markets.

I remember studying economics as well as religious studies at Advanced Level back in the '60's. Many people thought it was a strange combination of subjects. Economics is as "worldly" a subject one could find – yet even the church cannot survive without people giving it money to pay for upkeep of buildings and stipend of clergy, nor the church have the resources to also give to charity. (The PCC here recently voted to increase its level of charitable giving).

Perhaps in this uncertain economic climate, it is the right time for us to reassess our values and perspectives on life. Having a home and a job, and food to eat (but not too much), are necessary. But also necessary in life are other important things like loving relationships, care and consideration for others, and a faith and hope which give purpose and goal in life. Also important is not just "what" you are (your mode of employment), but also "who" you are: your character and the virtues you practise and the values you uphold. The ancient Greek philosophers and dramatists were well aware of how the tragedies of life can spoil a person’s chances and hence his character. But the Christian is also aware that all things are possible with God, and that tragedies can be faced through faith in the crucified Christ.