Four months ago the word zoom, to me, meant a camera lens or to rush around. Now Zoom is an accepted way of holding meetings, Bible Studies, coffee mornings, pastoral support and keeping in touch with family and friends. I thought conference calls were just for highflying executives, but Methodism has embraced this as a way of conducting essential business. The Methodist Conference will be held ‘virtually’ at the end of the month.
Likewise, how many of us thought that we would be willing to be videoed while singing, reading The Bible or praying, in preparation for Circuit and District services, possibly being seen by hundreds on Facebook or You Tube. How quickly we adapt! This has been just one aspect of the Corona Virus pandemic and I hope that you don’t think that I am trivialising the effects of the last few months.
People have been challenged, traumatised, bereaved, isolated, exhausted and scared. People are needing foodbanks more than ever, worrying about their jobs, schooling, exams, and their very futures. At the very time we have needed each other most we have had to keep physically apart. But in the midst of this suffering what an amazing response there has been across the age range, from virtual choirs, sponsored walks, volunteer shoppers, prayer chains, and so much more. We recognise that not everyone is able or willing to engage with technology and their needs must be met, across Sutton Park Circuit individual churches have found ways to maintain contact with their own congregations, especially those without email. As a CLT we have explored ways of reaching out to everyone and I thank all the Ministers for their endeavours. I also wish to thank John and Naomi for their continuing support, dealing with Treasury matters is even more testing in the current situation for John.
How will life look in another 6 months? How will Church look in another 6 months? We just don’t know other than it will be different because we are all different, affected by our individual experiences. One thing that won’t be different is our unchanging God – always with us, always loving us. So we look and plan ahead in faith and holding all things in prayer.
Marion Watts, Senior Circuit Steward
Sutton Park Methodist Circuit 