A Seasonal Message
For Our Ongoing Mission
As we begin a new Connexional Year, I write with a heart full of gratitude and hope. First and foremost, I give thanks to God for His faithfulness and for the many ways He has worked among us throughout the year that has passed. I also thank each one of you for your commitment, prayers, service, generosity, and witness as together we have sought to advance the mission of God in our circuit, communities, and beyond. We give thanks to God particularly for the many years of unwavering commitment dedication to duty of Peter and Michael in and beyond the circuit. This is commendable.
Looking back, we have much to celebrate. We have shared the good news of Jesus Christ, welcomed people into our congregations, supported those who were struggling, cared for one another, reached out to our communities, and continued to be signs of God's love in a changing world. While the work has not always been easy, God has continually strengthened us for the task. Every act of kindness, every prayer offered, every visit made, every conversation that brought hope, and every opportunity to serve has been part of God's ongoing mission among us. Very shortly, we will be flagging off an exciting NPNP Digital and hybrid project which requires the involvement of all us as a team.
As we step into this new Connexional Year, we are aware that much lies ahead. There is still much work to be done as we respond to God's call upon our lives and churches. Around us, the world continues to experience uncertainty and pain. Natural disasters, conflicts, economic challenges, and personal struggles remind us of the fragility of life and the deep need for hope, compassion, and faithful witness.
Yet in the midst of all that is happening, God continues to speak. We are reminded of God's words to Moses at the burning bush: "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground" (Exodus 3:5). Moses discovered that God was present not in a distant place but right where he stood. The ordinary ground beneath his feet became holy because God was there.
Perhaps this is the invitation for us as we begin this new year together. Holy ground may not be somewhere far away. Holy ground may be right beneath our feet: in our churches, our homes, our workplaces, our neighbourhoods, and our communities. Holy ground is wherever God is present and wherever God's people respond to His call.
As we look around and see the realities of our world, let us also look with the eyes of faith. God is already at work among us. The challenges before us are not reasons for despair but opportunities for faithful discipleship. In every encounter, every act of service, every word of encouragement, and every step of faith, we are invited to participate in God's mission.
Therefore, let us enter this Connexional Year with renewed confidence in God's presence. Let us walk humbly, pray fervently, serve generously, and love deeply. Let us be attentive to the holy ground upon which we stand and sensitive to the ways God is calling us to be His hands and feet in the world today.
Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do in the service of Christ. Your faithfulness is a blessing to the Church and a testimony to the transforming power of God's grace.
May the God who called Moses, who walked with the disciples, and who continues to lead His Church today, guide and strengthen us for the journey ahead.
May this new Connexional Year be marked by faith, hope, courage, and joy as together we participate in God's mission.
Rev’d Peggy
Superintendent Minister
September 2026