Pastoral Letter: Rev Ulrike Bell

Dear friends,

Our God, the God of Abraham and Sarah, of Ruth and Jonah gives stability over the ages, continuity and peace, and equally calls us out to follow him into unknown land.

The one who continually re-creates the world every morning calls us out to leave our fisher nets behind and go, trusting that our lives and the lives of others will be richer for it.

I can see God at work in our Forest Group, encouraging us to trust Him and His ways for us.

At Woodford church we are exploring the possibility of joining up with the East London and Essex Liberal Synagogue (currently in South Woodford), with whom we might embark on the journey of a joint future in using the building both as Synagogue and as Church, and possibly also becoming the new home for the London Interfaith Centre, which currently is in NW London, but due to close next summer.

This would be a very exciting new beginning and a great sign for the local (and farther) community, that God is One, but can be worshipped in different ways. That religions can work together and be friends, and that we can learn from each other about our God.

Please hold us all in your prayer as we continue our conversations both with Synagogue and Synod.

I can see God at work at St James, with Gerald and Mariana breathing new wind into church and congregation; their faith and humour refreshing our gatherings and inspiring us to think wider.

And in Chingford I see God at work in church members taking on more of what used to be the church secretary’s responsibilities, enabling the church to share and work more as a team.

“See, I am making all things new.” (Rev 21,5)

And in the church’s decision to re-organise their lettings system; in asking something new to develop and embracing that.

At our Joint FG Elders Day coming up on 15 June we will be looking to discern a vision for our churches, for our Group. This will carry us into the future that God holds for us, help us focus and guide our actions.

Where do you see God at work in our communities? Do look out for it, and share with us!

With love and blessing,

​Ulrike