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Wednesday 6 May 2020 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, We are all aware that the COVID-19 virus is having a big impact on our world, locally, nationally and internationally. There are very sobering reports about those suffering physically, mentally and economically. Even here in Switzerland there have been reports about people running out of food and other basic necessities. It is even more grim for migrants and refugees in many parts of the world who are already living in the midst of war and famine, and who lack proper hygiene or medical care. Let us continue to pray for those most in need. However, alongside the grim reality of the pandemic, there have also been good things. Our air is less polluted and many people have become more aware of environmental concerns; perhaps this is an opportunity for governments, organisations and individuals to review their priorities. We can also hear, daily, of a variety of encouraging and creative community initiatives,some offering practical help and others sustaining the spirit. Several people recently have pointed me to what is called the 'UK Blessing', sung by around 65 UK churches of many different denominations. You can listen to it here. Huge numbers of people have watched it and drawn encouragement from it. I am thankful for the creative efforts of those here at St Ursula's too as we adapt to this new and challenging situation. The Online Pub Quiz, 7.30-9.30pm this Friday will be the first of its kind but I'm sure it will be lots of fun and a big success. We already have a good number registered. Do get in touch with the office at office@stursula.ch if you would still like to join us. We also hope to raise some money for church funds as finances are challenging at the moment without our income from the halls and our usual fundraising activities. We would be grateful if those participating in the quiz are able to make a donation of 10 CHF per person (or more!). Painful and challenging times are also opportunities for us to learn and grow. I have recently read an extremely moving and challenging testimony to grace in the midst of suffering; it is an article written by Professor Kavin Rowe at Duke Divinity School in North Carolina, where David used to work. Supporting his wife with a terminal illness, he writes about finding life even in the face of death: 'Dying gives us a Chance to Confront Truth.' Click here Let us 'examine our beliefs about what really, really counts in life', as Kavin Rowe says, and may the God who brings life out of death give us grace and strength, joy and hope, even at the darkest times. With love in Christ,
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