Wednesday 13 May 2020

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We are beginning to see some relaxation of the lockdown in Switzerland and we hope this will continue without there being a spike in new cases of the virus. Let us continue to pray for all those making difficult decisions in government, education, public services and businesses, and all those working in health care professions. It is also good for us to remember those in many parts of our world who are still facing ongoing suffering, uncertainty and economic hardship because of the virus, especially those in countries with very few resources.

Speaking of praying for the world, let me draw to your attention a call for a day of prayer and fasting tomorrow, which has been particularly supported by Pope Francis. More details through this link.

Here at St Ursula's we are trying to work out a plan of action for re-opening the church. There will be further discussions with the Diocese, the authorities, other chaplaincies and our own church council over the coming weeks as we work out how to best implement the restrictions and guidelines. I will give you more information when I have it.

Next Thursday, 21st May, is Ascension Day and the material for the Ascension Day service will be sent out in my email next Wednesday. However you might be interested to know in advance that BBC Radio 4 is planning on recording Handel's Hallelujah Chorus for Ascension Day. They are inviting singers to take part in that recording. There may be some keen singers in our midst (who also have the technological skill!) who would like to join in this project. Details of how to do this are here.

Those who are unable to take part might nevertheless want to listen to this special recording on Radio 4 next Thursday.

Meanwhile, as we think of the challenges we face, let us remember God's love for all his world and Jesus' promise to his disciples: 'remember I am with you always, even to the end of the age.' (Matthew 28: 20)

Prayer

Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me.
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danver,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.
Amen
(from St Patrick's Breastplate)

With my love in Christ,
Helen