Jenny’s letter May 24th

Dear Friends,

There is something miraculous about trees at this time of year. Only weeks ago, many of them looked lifeless — bare branches against grey skies, twisted shapes that seemed almost brittle and forgotten. Yet now they are magnificent. Fresh green leaves shimmer in the sunlight. Blossoms burst into colour. Birds nest in their branches. They shelter, steady and beautiful, without demanding attention. I find myself stopping and staring at them a lot lately. Perhaps part of the wonder is that trees never really were dead at all. Even through winter, life was hidden within them. Quietly. Patiently. Preparing for renewal.

That feels like a Pentecost lesson. At Pentecost, the disciples were also waiting in uncertainty. Jesus had ascended. The future was unclear. They must have felt vulnerable, uncertain and perhaps even afraid. Yet beneath the surface, God was already at work. Then came the rushing wind, the fire, the courage, the joy — the gift of the Holy Spirit filling ordinary people with extraordinary life.

The Holy Spirit does not simply make us “religious.” The Spirit gives life. Energy. Courage. Wisdom. Compassion. Hope. The Spirit takes what seems dry, weary or stuck and breathes fresh life into it. Sometimes we can feel rather wintery ourselves. Tired. Flat. Unsure. Carrying burdens quietly. Yet Pentecost reminds us that God is never finished with us. Life can return. Joy can grow again. New things can begin.

Perhaps that is also true for churches and communities. We are not called simply to preserve old branches, but to grow, welcome, flourish and offer shade and shelter to others. That is one reason why our Summer Fair matters so much. Soon our church grounds, café and community spaces will be full of stalls, games, laughter, tea, cakes, an art exhibition in church and conversation. We will join together with the Bromborough Village Community Association for this year’s Summer Fair. Events like this do far more than raise money — though the fundraising is very important for the work and upkeep of church and community spaces. They also help grow friendships, strengthen community spirit and remind us that church is here for everyone.

But we cannot do it alone. We need helpers. People to set up, serve in the café, run games, welcome visitors, clear away and simply bring energy and encouragement. Some people can give hours; others perhaps half an hour. Some will need to sit and others to stand. Every contribution matters and we will do our best to accommodate you

Pentecost reminds us that God works through ordinary people offering what they can. So if you can help in any way, please do get in touch. Together, with God’s Spirit among us, wonderful things can grow.

Wishing you a spirit-filled week ahead,