Back to Work!

This week has been I think one of the busiest weeks I have had in London!
Last Sunday morning it was great to share in the Annual Covenant Service. It was here at Kings Cross- there were only 4 of us- but I was reminded how what we are doing is part of the much bigger picture- we can say it here with just a few of us- yet there are thousands of Methodist's (and others!) who say the words of the Covenant Prayer at the begining of the New Year. For me I found myself reflecting upon the words and the impact they have upon our lives a weeks prior to this- remembering the commitment I had made last year- which were still coming into completeness as 2007 drew to a close.

"I am no longer my own, but yours.
Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will;
Put me to doing; put me to suffering;
Let me be employed for you or laid aside for you,
Exalted for you, or brought low for you;

Let me be full, let me be empty;
Let me have all things, let me have nothing;
I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things to your pleasure and disposal.

And now, glorious and blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
You are mine and I am yours. So be it.

And the covenant made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven.
Amen."

Before Christmas sometimes being in London was challenging- yet I had pledged myself to go where God sent! SO as I said these words this year I was aware that in just 5 months time- God willing the Methodist Church will send me to theological college- I was looking ahead to that, as well as being aware of the more immediate commitment I was making.

The words are powerful, demanding and challenging!

The week continued to be busy, I started work in another of our social projects with alcoholics, I was at the hospital for my day a week. Also helped with the Night Shelter which is hosted at Kings Cross one night a week during the first 3 months of the year.

I had missed not working in my two weeks off and am pleased to be back again. Part of my placement this year that has been helpful in my discernment is working as a hospital chaplain one day a week. Having not been at the hospital for several weeks I was shattered by the end, but gain so much. Its a privillege to be able to take Holy Communion to people (its reserved sacrament). I receive so much from what people share within the hospital. Part of this discernment is helping me to think about where my longer term ministry may lie. One of the good things about Methodism is the way that it can combine circuit work and chaplaincy together!

Has been a really good week- I went home for just over a day too! Then have led worship today at Hinde Street and taught the Senior School Children of the Chinese church today. Was great to be with them- we are looking at prayer during January. so today we looked at the Lord's prayer- the teenagers then wrote some of their own! Including a chav version! Very interesting.

Any way, tonight there is a house meal and meeting! So best go! Will update soon!