From The Rectory I’m sure many of us have been horrified by events in Cologne where large groups of immigrant young men sexually abused of German women at New Year, and all this in the country that has so generously welcomed over a million refugees. It must have been a horrific experience for these women, and, rightly so, people are up in arms about it and very grave concerns about offering refuge to immigrants are being discussed in the media. What happened was wrong, totally against European values and our hearts go out to the women who were abused and molested. There was no excuse for such appalling behaviour, and the image of Islam is further tarnished by those who identify themselves with it, but do not adhere to its teachings. It presents us with a challenge too. Can we manage to maintain our compassion for those who are genuinely fleeing from war and violence? I hope we can. We must continue to remember that there are refugee families in desperate need of the basics of survival as they seek to establish a new life in Europe – a life of honest work where they may not only bring up their children in safety but also contribute to the society in which they have received shelter. It is for this reason that the PCC’s nominated Lenten Charity this year is one which will provide help to these families. Us is an Anglican charity raising money to fund the Diocese in Europe as it reaches out to refugees arriving throughout Europe to provide them with emergency medical support, food, shelter and pastoral care. (see www.weareus.org.uk/news/europe) Please help us to raise a generous amount from our little Parish so that we can do our own little bit in helping these desperate, deserving people. There is an envelope inside this magazine which you are invited to use and return to a collection point. You are welcome at either of the Lent Lunches or you might fancy our between Sunday services Big Breakfast on 6 February. Details of all three are within. In addition, join your prayers to ours for them. Prayer is a very sustaining thing for those in times of trouble – God won’t wave a magic wand and make it all better God has charged us with that responsibly and given us freewill so that we can choose how to act. Please choose to help us to help Europe’s refugees, both practically and prayerfully. With love and prayer Jennifer
