Shared work and prayer can help us shape the future of our diocese and care for those in need as we learn to live with COVID-19, writes Bishop Nick.
In a letter to clergy sent yesterday, Bishop of Leeds, the Rt Revd Nick Baines urges everyone “to live through the uncertainties of today” and to “look beyond the immediate challenges.”
“We are called to be faithful, but it is not primarily about us,” he writes in the latest Ad Clerum.
“Like Moses, we might be unaware of the bigger picture of history – only discernible after many years in the future – but have to do our best to live through the uncertainties of today, shaping what we can and helping people to look beyond the immediate challenges. “This is how God’s people have been asked to live and lead throughout history.
“How are we to use our imagination, intelligence and Spirit-led wisdom to lead our communities into the future – honest about the inhibitors, but unafraid of uncertainty?
“This is now our task. This is the future. It is the norm.
“And we have the opportunity to help shape what is to come by working together, praying for one another, looking to the interests of those who struggle and those who thrive, being patient and giving space to all who share this time with us.
“At every level of our church we face challenge and change.
“Particularly, we can turn outwards from the challenges of the church and look to meeting the needs of vulnerable people in our own parishes and communities
“Part of being strong and courageous is being open, honest and willing to share the load. It is not about being heroic.
“We can learn to do this differently and thank God for the opportunity.”