Dear Friends in the Northwest
This week is the fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Whilst we are still in the period of National Mourning following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, having marked that last week, this week we return to the theme of the Season of Creation. My thanks to Fr David who has prepared this week’s reflection.
This Sunday, there will be services in Ullapool and Achiltibuie. Next Sunday, there will be services in Ullapool, Lochinver (Assynt Centre) and Kinlochbervie (Village Hall). We will be keeping Harvest Festival in Lochinver and Kinlochbervie next week, in Ullapool on Sunday 2nd October when the service will be followed by a bring and share lunch, and in Achiltibuie on Sunday 16th October.
One of the global events that has been knocked out of the headlines following the death of the Queen is the flooding and consequent devastation in Pakistan. It is the latest example of the need for climate action and climate justice. Christian Aid have recently shared this prayer for Pakistan which seems particularly appropriate as we consider this in the context of the Season of Creation:
Compassionate God, hear our prayer for the people of Pakistan; for those who have lost their lives in the floods and for those forced from their homes. Yet again, God, it is the poorest who are hit hardest and those with least who lose most. Our hearts are heavy with the death, distress and destruction we see. But we are not helpless to act.
God of love and justice: call us to generous giving for those in need and urgent action to combat climate chaos. Let those in need today know they are not alone, and unite us in hope for a world where all can live in safety and security. Amen
As many of you know, Covid finally caught up with me at the beginning of the month. Thank you to everyone for your kind messages and offers of help, and especially to Fr David for stepping in to take services at short notice. I am now well out of my period of isolation and am feeling much better.
With love and prayers
Rev’d Clare
Please click the link below for this week’s reflection