Dear friends,

Just to reflect on last Sunday’s dedication. I was very blessed when we were outside standing and praying for our Church and were claiming faith in Christ in the city of Manchester. In all that period we can see faith was the key point, persistence faith gives us the day of victory in Christ. Perseverance keeps you going when friends, finance and circumstances fail you. Discouragement whispers, ‘give up,’ and doubt says, ‘It can’t be done.’ Perseverance is your anchor in life’s storms, your compass when you’re lost, and the head of steam that gets you up the next hill. So, persevere; everything you’re going through right now will be more than worth it in the end. Because we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose. Receive the grace to remain steadfast and never get discouraged in James 1:3 it says, “because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

Be strong in Christ because Jesus loves you.

Lots of love and blessings.
​
Rev Kathreen Shabaz

Dear Friends

I’ve not been feeling great about being a bloke over the the last few days. I’ve just finished some online safeguarding training looking at domestic abuse, and it’s harrowing to discover how the restrictions and limitations endured during COVID, have been used to the further advantage of some men in their households. At the same time, I’ve grown increasingly aware of the sense of privilege that some younger males carry with them, where again physical strength and force can be used both to their advantage, and to the disadvantage of others.

In our service last Sunday, we reflected on the experiences of another young man who thought he had it all. In his dreams he even thought he could take on God himself when it came to wrestling. Jacob was on the run and on his own, having tricked his brother out of his birthright. However, despite his many failings, God engaged and then remained with him, ending with the following affirmation; 

“…..And behold, I am with you and I will protect you wherever you go..” Gen 28.15a

Whoever we are, and whatever levels of power feel feel we may possess, may we all know our God journeying with us, whereby we might then be a blessing to others. 

Keep safe
Keep in touch
​Keep the faith.
Simon

He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. (Luke 5:2-6)

Dear Friends

This is the passage we discussed on Thursday’s Midday prayer at 12noon. I was very blessed to hear the thoughts from our brothers and sisters. As you know, on Thursday’s Midday prayer we share thoughts with each other related to the Bible verses. Please come and join us if you can.

Here are some thoughts from me too:

Friends if you’re wrestling with depression, tormenting memories, unemployment, addiction, financial failure, relationships, time management issues or sickness either mentally, physically, or spiritually, the Lord of new beginnings wants to come into your boat. If you let Him, He will show you what to do. Now, what He says may not initially make sense to you. But if you’re willing to respond like Peter – "Because You say so, I will" – you’re on the threshold of a miracle. 
Today, invite Jesus on board and watch how your situation changes. Nothing is impossible for our God, Rise up and receive new strength, grace, courage and put your faith in action. In Jesus’ mighty name I pray. 

Lots of love and blessings

Rev Kathreen Shabaz

'Everyone had gathered just as much as they needed.' Exodus 16. 18b

Dear Friends

As we approach the time where the church calendar focuses on the theme of harvest (we’ll have our own mini celebration in this weeks' All Together Service followed by a cooked lunch that we can share in), I’ve been reflecting on God’s provision for his people as described in Exodus. If you remember the story, despite having been rescued from slavery in Egypt, the Israelites were having second thoughts about leaving, with their empty stomachs increasing the grumbles. So God provides; quail and significantly manna from heaven - just enough to be cooked or baked for each day and with a double helping that won’t go off for the weekend (which enables them to keep the sabbath). The trouble is, there is a lack of trust with this idea of being dependant daily on God, and some household are tempted to take and hoard more manna than they require during the week, whereby the stored manna became smelly and maggot infested by the next day! 

Fast forward many thousands of years and again we are witnessing a lack of trust. This time, instead of manna, folk are being tempted to stock up on and hoard fuel for their vehicles, filling their tanks to the brim. Again, there is enough to go around if everyone were to take what they need, but human nature is to take matters in their own hands with the resulting chaos of shortages.

The Lord’s Prayer reminds us of our daily dependance on God, and his willingness to supply us with all we need. May we be encouraged not to panic, worry or hoard, and trust that God provides us all we need.

Keep safe
Keep in touch
Keep the faith.
​
Simon

​Dear Friends,

This week I want to share something with you from a book I am reading and I am working to adopt this habit more in me. “Leaders Learning to Listen” by Chris Edmondson.  While I was reading this, I felt it was related to my current situation. Chris Edmondson states in the book that for listening you need time in your availability. Now, as I have moved into our parish. It is very helpful and fruitful to know people from my neighbourhood, streets, local school and from the church and listening to their stories.  I was listening to others when I was commuting from Oldham to Manchester but most of the time, I was just thinking of driving back to Oldham. I found in this busy life it is very hard to spare some time to properly listen to others.

David Augsburger says, “Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person they are almost indistinguishable”. Therefore, the challenge for me and you is to spare some time to listen to others.  Being in Christ is one of our main jobs. There are many scriptures for a good hearing ear.

To conclude, I am 100% agreed with Martyn Atkins that “A Spirit-led church that truly listens will change the world”

So, let’s make a difference by listening to God and to one another.

Lots of love and blessings to you all.

Rev Kathreen Shabaz