Easter - A time to give thanks and rejoice in what Christ has done for us!

The Apostle Paul undertook a life of moving on in the work which he exercised for his Lord in the churches throughout Asia Minor. John Wesley also travelled many thousands of miles during his ministry. As Methodist ministers we are referred to as Mr Wesley's Travelling Preachers and as such are called to undertake an itinerant ministry. Some times we are able, as the hymn reminds us, to 'pitch our moving tent' for many more than one night whilst on occasions that stay may seem too brief. Whatever the span of time spent in a circuit, the taking leave of those we have cared for in times of both joy and sorrow always evokes deep emotional feelings.

The nine years that Enid and I will have been here at Kingston have been mostly a happy and enjoyable time and as I have loved my people and taken delight in seeing so many of you experience fulfilment in your lives as you have taken steps along your personal 'Journey with Jesus'.

The stationing of me in Yorkshire most certainly came as a surprise, but then we have a God who is a God of surprises and who does the unexpected. I was asked following the Pastoral Committee how I felt with it being my last such meeting at Kingston. I want to turn that question around and ask all of you, 'How do you feel?' In particular think about your spiritual life.

My prayer most certainly is that you will continue on your journeys of faith, a phrase you will have heard me use many times; that you will feel strong to keep on pushing the boundaries of innovative worship and outreach in order to win individuals for Christ; and that the members of the church leadership team will remain confident in their guidance to the church.

The days ahead may seem unclear but we know with certainty that our Lord knows the way we go, and it is in him that we trust. Continue in your rolling programme of opportunities that you are undertaking for him and believe he will fulfil his purposes in both you and his church at Kingston.

Rejoice this Eastertide and celebrate the Risen Life of Jesus in you now and always. We will move on in August after my shortened sabbatical with deep love and affection for you all remaining in hearts as we continue to pray for you. We thank all of you who have loved, supported and prayed for both of us whilst we have been here during which time we have learnt much to take with us to Ossett and Horbury on our continuing Journeys of Faith.

God bless, Tony (and Enid)