As we approach the month of May, we are greeted with flowers, singing of birds, warmer weather, trees in their bloom and longer days. Spring is God’s way of saying, ‘One more time!’ according to Robert Orben.
There is a lot to be cheerful for in the Claydons but sadly the family bereavements of Community Stalwarts, Pat Joseph McMullen, Michael Roy Muckleston and Sandra Dickens, are a sober reminder to appreciate those whose lives and generosity have been a huge impact across the Claydons. The opportunity to build on their village efforts remains a constant theme to us – do good and love our neighbours as ourselves.
The third week of April for Holy Week had focussed our attention around the passion of Jesus Christ, his death and resurrection. This solemn Easter season preserves some of the oldest texts still in current use and continuously rehearses the deepest and most fundamental Christian memories. That Jesus gave His life on the cross to save us and by his death, we always have the opportunity of a second chance. A second chance to forgive and release others because we have been forgiven, to forgive ourselves, to have an endless hope (not a hopeless end) and to know that we are loved. According to J A Lacy: “The cross we carry is never so heavy as the chains from which we were freed.”
Since my installation at St Michael’s Church Steeple Claydon, by Bishop of Buckingham, The Right Reverend Alan Wilson, some six weeks ago, Nicki and I have been overwhelmed by your generosity towards our family and ministry. I do hope that I, as your Vicar, can return this generosity in kind by serving this community well. We have truly settled in the village and have struck some amazing friendships. Thankyou.
I believe that to effectively serve the needs of the Claydons requires the values of Christ – to be Christ-like – to be followed. In particular, to be courageous, which reminds me of a personal prayer adopted nine years ago and now extend to you in the spirit of this community:
“May the strength of God pilot us, His power preserve us, His wisdom instruct us, His hand protect us, His way direct us and His shield defend us. May the host of God guard us against the snares of evil and the temptations of the world. May Christ be with us, before us, in us and over us. May Thy salvation, O Lord, be always ours this day and forever more.”
St. Patrick’s (the Claydon’s and Rickey’s) Breastplate!
Yours sincerely
Rickey Simpson-Gray (Team Vicar)
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