Dear friends,
I had a bit of an odd experience the other day. I went out and actually felt warm. It almost came as a shock when I realised that the sun was shining, there were hardly any clouds in the sky and it wasn’t raining. While this was short lived it still gave hope that after a damp winter there was the promise of some decent weather ahead. Flowers have started to grow and blossom and things start to feel better.
For some, moving on into Spring can be tricky. Like so many over the pandemic we lost loved ones. My mother, and then both my wife’s parents died in what seemed short order. People who have been at the centre of our lives, with whom we celebrated so much were no longer there. The first spring after they died was difficult. We were almost comfortable surrounded by the dampness and cold of winter. To celebrate the arrival of spring almost felt like leaving them behind. But the world does move on, and so did we. We continue to celebrate the family events and in these they are never far from our thoughts. But for some moving on can be hard and the feeling of being stuck in winter can be a strong one. Help is found in talking about those whom we have lost with family and friends. If that is hard you are welcome talk to your clergy or bereavement support group like Cruse.
Easter, for Christians, is always at the heart of moving on. We stand in the horror of the cross and then rejoice in the promise of a new hope.
Hello!
With our Rector David moving not so much as to pastures new but more round the corner the Bishop has asked if I could help out during the interregnum. I retired from being a prison chaplain last year having spent 22 years in HMP Huntercombe. Before that I was a vicar in North London and did curacies in Cornwall and Wales.
I’m married with two grown up children and one grandchild who gets spoilt terribly. We have two monochrome cats who don’t particularly like each other. My hobbies are sport photography – mainly cricket and rugby and supporting Aldershot Town.
During the interregnum I will be helping out with the services but also have two days a week for pastoral support within the Benefice. If you feel there is anything I can help with please feel free to have a chat after church, or call my mobile number or you can catch me in Cliddesden Church on Tuesday mornings between 09:30 and 10:30.
Looking forward to seeing you around.
Best wishes
Ian
Ian Thacker
Associate Minister
Farleigh, The Candover and Wield
07864095435