Letter from the Vicar Nov 2007

Berinsfield Vicarage

Dear Friends,

It really good to be here, living among you and getting to know you. You have made me welcome in so many ways, bell peals to chocolate buns, flowers and friendly faces. The reading I chose for the licensing from John 15 talked about loving each other and Jesus calling us friends. Those words have become real for me in a very powerful way wherever I have found myself over the last weeks. You are already becoming my friends too and so many of you have really eased the transition to Oxfordshire for both Peter and myself. We are feeling very privileged to be here.

Of course, the more cynical may say, wait until the honeymoon is over. I do hope we have many fruitful years ahead. Apart from the fact that I don't think I can face another house move, I have moved 8 times in 8 years, I believe there is something important about looking into the future expecting that we will remain together. Looking ahead there are bound to be those times we agree and those times we don't. I will make mistakes, we will sometimes see things differently. Sometimes it will be my dream that dissolves, sometimes yours. I hope at those moments the friendship and love that have begun to grow between us will see us through and that we will be able to exercise the generosity of heart and graciousness needed to avoid any permanent damage. I hope we will be able to talk about any difficulties long before they fester into something more serious.

I hope that doesn't sound like I am expecting trouble and have some secret plot to change everything. I have not. I wish to spend a good while just being among you, getting to know you, getting a feel for the people, the places and the issues you face. In many ways I rely on you to be my ears and eyes around the villages, alerting me to people and situations that would benefit from a bit of the vicar's attention. At this stage especially, I hope you will make sure I know about events and occasions when there may be an opportunity to meet the wider community. I may not always be able to be there, but I will if I can.

It has been a wonderful initiation into the Dorchester Team, both Peter and I look forward to the future with eagerness and enthusiasm. Thank you for your welcome.

Best wishes,

Ros