A fruitful day

‘Was it a fruitful day then?’ asked the train conductor as he clipped my return ticket from Kilwinning this afternoon. We had met and chatted on the train south that morning – of which encounter perhaps more in a day or two once I have reflected further upon it – and now here he was again, kindly enquiring about my day.

And yes, I was able to say it had been a fruitful day, very much so, in fact. Hopefully it was fruitful for the three Vestries assembled for the day of congregational discernment, though I must not speak for them. But certainly it was fruitful for me.

• I became acquainted with the wonderful premises that are St Andrew’s Irvine; the Pisky congregation shares premises with the local Church of Scotland congregation, the former having raised the funds to add halls, kitchen and a cafe-type space onto the existing C of S sanctuary. Definitely a venue for Quiet Days, CMD days and the like on account of the versatile meeting spaces,  breakout rooms and cafeteria provision. To be followed up!
• I saw for myself how creative clustered charges can be when they work well together and want to be together, love each other, in fact. Here were three with their own particular personalities, but working healthily as a team, sharing finances, worship and training in ways that really work. And wanting to deepen and develop these links, both internally and ecumenically. 
• I sensed the excitement generated by these charges, poised as they are to enter a new phase of ministry; deeply thankful for all that has gone before but equally aware that new times call for new ways; eager to adapt and change accordingly.

Oh, and the images the three charges came up with (see July 22nd post) were amazing: imaginative, humorous, truly indicative of their different quirky personalities and all outward-facing. As I reckon their completed Profile document will be too. Pray that they may they find the right priest to gather and guide them on their onwards journey with God.