Jenny’s letter 3rd August

Dear friends,

As we step into August, I’m struck by how the pace of summer sometimes brings a blend of reflection and activity. This past week has offered a mixture of both.

One particularly encouraging moment was visiting Bromborough Pool, where I learned more about the exciting regeneration plans for the area. It was heartening to hear such a creative and hopeful vision — one that puts people and community at its centre. There’s a real sense of possibility growing there, and I hope we as a parish will find ways to support and be involved in the life that’s re-emerging in that historic place. I don’t know how we will do that, but Jesus does. 

Part of the reason for my visit was to see Chloe, the Engagement Officer at Autism Together. We spoke about the incredible work they’re doing to support individuals and families living with autism, and the importance of making spaces and relationships more inclusive and understanding. She was keen to explain how Autism together has now been gifted the large community buildings there and the amazing and exciting plans they have to make them accessible for community use.  

I was impressed to hear about Autism Together’s commitment to the heritage of the area and to the community who now live there as well as to their service users. During my visit, I had a chance to return to St Matthew’s Church. For some of you, it was once a place in which you took part in faithful worship. As I stood in that space, which is now the hub of musical activity, I could alsmost feel the memories of past congregations — laughter, hymns, quiet prayers. Though the building is used very differently now, God is never done with any space or community. Please keep it in your prayers as Autism Together continue to discern its future.

Between prayers and a pastoral visit on Thursday, I made it to the dentist! It was one of those small but important reminders to take care of myself — something I’m trying to be more intentional about. I was very pleased to be told my teeth are in good order! It’s funny how even a routine appointment can quietly speak to our need for balance and self-care. I wonder how many of us find it easier to care for others than for ourselves?

This Sunday’s Gospel from Luke 12:13–21 is the parable of the rich fool — a man who stores up treasure for himself, only to discover that life cannot be hoarded.“This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.” (v.21) It’s a challenging story, but one that invites us to ask deeper questions: What are we building? What truly lasts? Are we investing in the things that bring life — relationships, compassion, community, love?

May we be people who are living as people of God in all that we do this week — not only in big gestures but in daily faithfulness, quiet kindness, and in caring both for our neighbours and just as importantly ourselves.

With every blessing,