Coming to, growing in, and living out faith in Jesus is the foundation of our vision at St John’s for this next phase in our church’s life. Three inextricably interlinked aspects of faith – like walking a labyrinth. Labyrinths have aided Christian prayer for over 1800 years. I walked one on our Ascensiontide prayer day.
Standing ready to step in reminds me of that first step of trust in Jesus – the Way into Life in all its fullness. Facing the centre with its promise of peace,
I feel the weight of a stone in my hand. A left turn and a couple of twists and I am now at the outer edge. This route is full of change and anything but direct. In fact, it’s hard to believe it leads anywhere. And then it does. I reach the centre, leave my stone at the foot of the cross and rest.
Heading out feels different, lighter. The twists and turns remain but I have been this way before. In our Christian walk we come to faith with that first step of trust. We grow in faith through prayer, Bible study, conversation. We live out that faith in our lives. Which builds confidence but brings questions, challenges. Our return to prayer, Bible, conversation is at a richer, deeper level.
Supporting this spiral of faith is our vision. The areas of focus within this framework will be developed over the coming months. Speak to a PCC member to know more, or to contribute to the conversation.
Sarah Shackleton
Lord God, fill us with the Spirit of Jesus, that we may be a Christ centred church, growing in numbers, faith, fellowship and mature godliness. Help us to share His hope for our hurting world and His love for all creation. Grant that we may take an active part in building a flourishing and inclusive community in Grove. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
This article originally appeared in the St John’s Messenger. If you would like to discuss contributing a future article please contact news@valebenefice.org.uk.
