Dear Friends,
As I write this my final letter before moving onto new pastures at Mossley Hill, I have been reflecting on what has happened during my time here in West Warrington. There are three things which I think have been particularly significant.
Firstly, the faithfulness of God. It has been a challenging time health-wise for all of us as a family, and it has been challenging at times for me as the Vicar too. Yet throughout it all, God has been faithful. He has never given up on me, and I do not think He has given up on us as a church. As St. Matthew reminds us at the end of his gospel, “And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
Secondly, my levels of expectancy about what God can do have risen. I’m thinking here particularly about the wonderful ways in which God has used the Alpha Course, the Growing in Faith course, and Talking Jesus course (amongst others) plus our small groups to help people explore and grow in faith. I’m thinking also about the wonderful ways in which God has met our needs financially as a church through the various gift days we have had (including for our new extension), as well as the stewardship initiatives. New people have also offered to take on new roles in the life of the church, and what a blessing that has been. As St. Paul says in his letter to the Ephesians, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!” (Ephesians 3: 20-21)
Thirdly, I have learnt the benefits (as well as the challenges) of being part of a team ministry. Team hasn’t always been easy, but it has opened up some wonderful opportunities to share together in mission and ministry, as well as to get to know a great bunch of people across West Warrington. Do get involved with our new Parish of Warrington as it comes into effect in the New Year and discover for yourself what the Psalmist said, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133: 1)
So as I sign off this letter, I would like to say thankyou to all who have journeyed with me here over the course of the nearly past 10 years. Thanks to all who have served in various capacities and to those who have given. Please support John as the churchwarden with Ian, Margaret and Nathan as assistant wardens, plus the members of the PCC, and support each other. Please pray for one another and for me in the new ministry God has called me to, as I will be praying for you.
With my best wishes and prayers,
Jeremy Tear
Pioneer Team Rector
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