Wednesday 9 July 2025

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

It was such a great joy to welcome Bishop Alison and Archdeacon Peter and some of James' friends and family as we celebrated his ordination at St Ursula's last Sunday. Thank you to all those who helped to organise the splendid lunch afterwards. Please continue to keep James and Lilian in your prayers.

James has asked me to pass on to you this thank you note below:

It wasn't until it happened that I realised how much of a blessing the ordination service could be. I could feel the support of the clergy, the congregation and my family. Your support encourages me to face the opportunities and challenges of ministry that lie ahead. Lilian and I would like to thank all of you for your kindness and your help before, during, and after the ordination! There were many times when I felt that I couldn’t go on with training, but with God’s grace, Helen and David’s encouragement, and your prayers, I’ve made it thus far. I’m also grateful to Bishop Alison White and Archdeacon Peter Hooper for coming all the way to Bern for this special occasion. I look forward to serving among you and with you.

James Morgan

James Presiding
James will be presiding at the Eucharist this Sunday, 13th July. Please keep him in your prayers as he prepares to do so. I hope you will be able to join us for the service.

Junior Church over the Holidays
There will be no Junior Church during the holidays as most of our families are away.
From 13th July - 3rd August (inclusive) we will be providing activity sheets and story books in the Upper Hall for any children who attend, but parents will need to stay there with their children.
Sunday 10th August there will be an All Age service, and Junior Church will then resume from 17th August.

Church Picnic, Sunday 17th August
After the service on Sunday 17th August we are planning a church picnic in the Dählhölzli. I hope that as many of you as possible will be able to join us that day.

Toilet Paper
You may have noticed that the toilet paper in the halls looks different. That is because, after research through the Eco Group, we have switched to a more environmental product from OH Sheet. You can find out more information about this here.
If you would like to buy some for yourself at home, then please use this referral link and you will receive a 10% discount and St Ursula's will profit also from your first order.

I leave you with a poem which encourages us to say a wholehearted 'yes' to God.

Amen
When will I ever learn to say Amen,
Really assent at last to anything?
For now my hesitations always bring
Some reservation in their trail, and then
Each reservation brings new hesitations;
All my intended amens just collapse
In an evasive mumble: well, perhaps,
Let me consider all the implications...

But you can read my heart, I hear you say:
For once be present to me, I am here,
Breathe in the perfect love that casts out fear
Open your heart and let your yea be yea.
Oh, bring me to that brink, that moment when
I see your full-eyed love and say Amen.

Malcolm Guite

With love in Christ,
Helen