I wonder…

What does the month of September mean to you?

For me, it’s always meant going back to school.   First as a pupil, and then for twenty-two years as a teacher. And, having left teaching, and being married to a teacher, and a son who went to school, in some way or another I’ve been connected to the school year for most of my life. Accordingly, Claire having left teaching this summer, and Will having completed his GCSE’s, this will be the first year in forty-five years that I won’t have had a connection with full-time education!

Does it feel a bit weird? Well, yes it does a bit!

However, both as a teacher, and a priest, I’ve always embraced the philosophy of life-long-learning.

We never stop learning, and should always be open to new knowledge and ways of doing things.

There are many stories of Jesus teaching in the bible. However, one of my favourites often goes under the radar, mainly because of Martha’s activity. Her sister Mary, now into adulthood, sits still at the feet of Jesus, and, with wide eyed enthusiasm, learns from that what Jesus has to say.

However, unlike twenty-first century education, Jesus didn’t insist that Mary sits an exam, in order to prove what she had learnt. He recognised her faith via her still attentiveness.

In this way learning doesn’t always mean doing stuff, but rather taking the time to be quiet, and sit still at the feet of Jesus – and with the same wide eyed enthusiasm, absorb all that Jesus has to offer us. Sitting still at the feet of Jesus will look different for each one of us, as will what we learn. However, I’d encourage us all to take time out of our busy schedule, to sit, and to notice, and learn more about our Teacher, ourselves, and our relationship with God, and the world around us.

So may this September be a joyous time of discovery, that doesn’t stop at the end of the month, but rather continues for our whole life long. 

With every blessing

Nick

What is Christian Meditation??

The meditation begins with a short reading followed by twenty minutes of silent contemplative prayer, also known as meditation.

We meet every Thursday at 7pm in St. Mary’s Church (entry by the Priest’s Door or  by arrangement))

Our meetings are open to all, you do not need to be a member of St. Mary’s Church.

If you would like to join us please let me know in order that I may keep you updated regarding venue.

If you have no experience of Christian meditation or you would like to discuss anything about this please feel free to contact me. Meanwhile I look forward to welcoming you at our meetings.

Robin Bailey, Telephone  07922 173850.