It seems like the period of the rules changing every day might be over, and the country is getting used to a very different rhythm of life. For those with the virus, those caring for them, those most at risk, all who are hungry, those completely isolated or overwhelmed and those facing the loss of their livelihood this is a perilous time. Our attention is principally on them and our prayers are with them.
There’s no question this is a very challenging time for St Martin’s. Our business is closed, The Connection at St Martin-in-the-Fields is closed, the church itself is closed. We face some difficult decisions about how to ensure the organisation gets through this troubled season and is able and ready to face resumption once the crisis lifts. We want to give confidence to our staff and wide circle of supporters that we’ll still be a going concern despite the huge loss in income.
Yet there’s no denying this has already been a creative and deepening time in parts of our common life. The livestreamed services have been very widely and well received, the congregation is finding ways to extend its care and fellowship, and HeartEdge is finding new channels to reach churches and clergy nationally and internationally. In many ways we’ll be the stronger and wiser for what this season is teaching us.
Most of all we’ve learnt how much we each need each other, care about each other, and can learn from each other. May the season of pandemic soon cease. But may the era of creativity, care and learning continue to grow.
Revd Dr Sam Wells
