‘Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer.’

“All shall be well, and all shall be well and all manner of thing shall be well,” so said Julian of Norwich, b1343 d1416. Julian's famous declaration that “all manner of thing shall be well" does not eliminate misfortune, sickness or death from life. Rather It is pointing to what all respected wise ones say about the ability to find peace and even joy, in the eye of the storm and in the midst of life’s challengers. Julian knew that it is possible to transcend chaos, suffering and difficulties by trusting in Jesus Christ and relying on the Holy Spirit's love, power and presence. The Apostle Paul knew this as well. In Romans 12 verse 12 he wrote, ‘Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer.’ I do hope and pray that you are trusting in Jesus Christ daily and experiencing God’s peace and presence during this time of misfortune and sickness. My prayer is that you know and believe that, “All shall be well, and all shall be well and all manner of thing shall be well.”

Over the past few weeks I have been keeping in regular contact with the Bishop and our Archdeacon. As the Delta strain of Covid is significantly more contagious a more cautious approach is being considered especially when moving down through the ‘levels.’ I also enjoy a North Shore Clergy cluster zoom meeting with colleagues every Tuesday. This is very helpful and encouraging as we journey through this unusual time.

‘Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer.’

Romans 12 v 12.

Arohanui

Warren