“Thoughts of the Day” this month are part of a special series in Epiphanytide, the time between Epiphany Sunday and Lent, when we hear gospel stories of the growing faith of the disciples and the revelation that Jesus is truly the son of God. To mark this time, members of our congregation share stories of their own faith journeys and Epiphany moments that have inspired them and drawn them deeper into faith. Today’s reflection is from Nancy Brickwood.
I have been a member of the Anglican Church since birth. I was baptized as a baby, confirmed as a teenager and married as an adult, all in the Anglican Church.
I was aware of the Church Warden role and had a peripheral view of the responsibilities. Often I would hear ‘never be a warden as it is nothing but problems and complaints!’
The role of Warden is a volunteer position. It includes management of the parish finances, office administration, building maintenance, human resources, diocesan communications and public relations.
Working with Tim, Mark and Joyce as the newest member of the team has been a revelation to me. Yes, the role involves handling challenges, and 2022 had its fair share including the COVID shut down earlier in the year and the storm in May with the 130 km/hr winds causing severe damage in Durham including power failures. However, the opportunity to more broadly contribute to All Saints and the local community, as well as learn more deeply about the variety of ministries where dedicated volunteers give their time and skill has been an epiphany for me.
2022 had many joyous moments including full in-person church at all the Easter services, the celebration of Mother Jennifer at her induction service in October, and the educational night with newcomers in November. None of these moments would have been possible without the parishioners, clergy and staff behind the scenes diligently contributing their talent in the choir, chancel guild, servers guild, and the greeting team, to mention a few.
I am very grateful to our Warden team and all the moments in 2022. I have a stronger appreciation of the parish administration which is inspiring me in my ongoing journey of faith. I learned that every contribution, whether a steady hand week after week or a lighter touch once in a while, all contribute to doing God’s work. This depth of dedication gives me pause to think of the scripture verse:
“Let your light so shine before all that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5.16.
Participating or leading in a church ministry will come with hard aspects but those will make the good parts even more celebratory, as I have witnessed this past year.
As we begin the new church year, there are many ways to become involved and have your own epiphany. Come and speak with any of the Wardens and attend the Vestry meeting on February 26th to learn more about the opportunities at All Saints.
Prayer:
Almighty God,
in the birth of your Son
you have poured on us the new light of your incarnate Word,
and shown us the fullness of your love:
help us to walk in his light and dwell in his love
that we may know the fullness of his joy;
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.
- Church of England
