A lovely and encouraging day at P's & G's today. What a facility! I was curate there in the eighties, and haven't been back there for about fifteen years. It's now a contemporary space with every imaginable gadget, yet they have retained many of the original features. Mind you, a huge floral arrangement made it look like a triffid had occupied the pulpit! Nonetheless, it's a wonderful transformation, and undoubtedly one of the best ecclesiastical spaces in Scotland. Now, how can we update our slightly tired sanctuary at St Silas'?
One of the highlights of the day was being greeted by Ray, one of the current janitors. I knew him from my time at the church, and his story is a wonderful example of the transforming power of the Gospel. He was "a bit of a lad" (this is the mild description). It was great and humbling to hear him speak of his walk with the Lord.
The conference has left me with a lot to think about, especially as we are in the process of articulating strategic vision for St Silas'. I kind of wish we could have the first talk of today at General Synod on Friday morning, when mission is being discussed. In summary, the Church exists for one purpose: not to meet my needs, not to worship, but to reach the vast numbers of irreligious with the love of Jesus. Somehow, along the way, many of us (and I include those of us who think we are doing ok in this regard) have lost that particular vision. Inspiring. Now I need to get on with it
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