Medway Methodist Circuit
One Church-One People
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June July 2010
June 2010
He is back, or that might be she is back! As I sat in my office this morning, with the door open looking into the Church, an old friend returned. I have not seen them for the past two years, but now they are back home, and if truth be told I don’t know if it is a swallow or a swift, but the bird is back flying around the Church.
I first encountered our special guest just after the builders had completed the refurbishment, that first summer they flew around the sanctuary. Initially we called the RSPCA and the RSPB for advice, both organisations saying the same thing, leave well alone, and when ready they will exit the building the same way they came in.
Throughout the summer during the daytime they seem content to fly around, when we are worshipping or a concert is taking place they withdraw high into the rafters, and once the young have hatched, which you will be able to hear in the silence in a few weeks time, then when all have left the nest the parents migrate for the winter.
Last year they did not arrive, and so I have surprised myself with how delighted I am to see them back again this year.
Like the story of the prodigal Son, there is much rejoicing when the wanderer returns home. Enacted out in our Church is the parable of the returning son, and the welcome received. May it be much more than a story – may it continue to be our reality that those who feel lost, can not only find God, but find a loving welcome home in our place.
Melvyn
Office Address:
Medway Methodist Circuit Office
100 Third Avenue
Gillingham
Kent
ME7 2LU