Vicars Letter 4th September 2026

Rev Guy Benton

Kia ora, All Saints

What a phenomenal Sunday it was last week as we gathered as a combined parish for the confirmations of Rebekah, Christine, Fiona, Adam, Sean and Matthew. 

I was profoundly struck by Bishop Ana's message about being at home on the water; specifically, the reference to how the bottom of the ocean doesn't get cut into because there is a layer of still, calm water that protects it from the raging torrents and currents. I couldn't help but think of this in my own heart and soul as I went about the week. How often in our lives do we let the raging torrents wear away at us or carve a gouge in our hearts and souls? Are we spending time deeply with the Lord who stills our hearts and minds even amidst the most turbulent of times? I think of the Psalm: "You lead me by still waters." 

This dovetailed into thinking about the gospel passage of Jesus calming the winds and the seas, and wondering that even in our world, when the winds stop after a storm, the seas are still rough! Not with Jesus; he stills them together. Something out of this world! 

I asked myself this question this week: Why do I try and pretend and trust other options? Why? 

This week we are into Study 7 of our Big Picture series, "The God who will send a great king", looking at King David and the future messiah. 

It's in this King that we put our Heart, mind, body and soul, with the full knowledge that he provides unwavering peace.

Don't forget that our Youth Group are running their fundraising dinner tonight at 6:30 pm. Dinner, games, raffles, and loads of fun!

Much love,