September is when it all starts again. Our lives are ruled by times and seasons, which come and go, and hopeful to give us a sense of rhythm. With the marker of school summer holidays, comes a bit of a pause in many of our programs, including the church.
It’s a good thing, I think. I don’t know about you but by summer I am usually ready to pause what I’ve been busily working on, and try and chase some sun and a couple of good books for a few weeks.
Ideally, this refreshes us for the next phase. But not automatically. The idea of rest now has a bit of science behind it. Apparently we need just the right amount of relaxation, with enough mental and physical stimulus as well to really reset things. We also need to evaluate how full our ‘plate’ is and prioritise as we go again.
I’ve tried to do this over the summer. It won’t surprise you to know the nature of ministry in our current climate and culture is exhausting, and at times feels impossible to meet all the demands. Leading a church, and trying to do it well can also lead easily to mission creep… where you innocently get involved in trying to solve more and more issues and leap into helping with more causes, with your limited resources.
So I’ve done some pruning. I feel a sense of calling to try and rebalance my energies back even more locally in this season.
I’ve stepped back from my Crossreach Board and Renfrew FC duties. My interim moderator work for Clyde presbytery is immovable so I want to give my remaining evenings to my family, our local boxing outreach and of course work that needs done for our own church.
Our church’s finances remain challenging, with a big deficit between our income and obligations - so I’m encouraged as a church we’re welcoming a new Core Group for fundraising led by Margaret Rhoddan which we pray will begin to help. I do hope we can all support their work, and continue to be open to God’s leading with how we might be part of the answer to that challenge, whether through giving, or even considering leaving a legacy.
It’s absolutely lovely to start this new season with the smart new windows in the small hall, thanks to Molly’s generous legacy.
Additionally, it looks like we will be welcoming a new ministry candidate as a student, and Lord willing will see another big move forward in developing local youth work for teenagers. There is so much life and activity to give thanks for.
It is my prayer coming into the new term we all know God’s refreshing Spirit and presence, His guidance in our time, commitment and resources, and above all that we encourage one another in the work He’s given us to do in Erskine.
Yours in Christ,
David
The Brig - September 2025 Edition
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