We publish a Parish Magazine 4 times a year and in each Magazine there a letter from the Ministry team; here is the one from Summer 2008:
A little while after he heard that Jonathan would be leaving St John's, a young boy I know was heard to ask "Does that mean there won't be Church any more?".
Happily, we were able to reassure him that there were plenty of other people who would able to take the services during "the Vacancy" and so he would be able to go on enjoying the company of all his friends in Junior Church. (Though, come to think of it, perhaps the question was asked as much in hope as in anxiety….)
But, either way, like so many questions our children ask, it makes you think.
That word "Church" for a start. Because it is about so much more than what we do when we meet for worship (whether on a Sunday morning or at other times): It's about the whole life of the people of God in everything that we are and do.
Each week as we come to communion we pray "that we may evermore dwell in him and he in us". It is about our life being lived in him - caught up into the life and love of heaven. And about Jesus' life transforming us and those around us. Whether we find ourselves changing nappies, commuting to London, caring for friends and relatives, harvesting the crops, arranging flowers or trying to work out how to answer our children's questions. And in whatever role we may be called to take in our corporate life. Whether we are helping with the children's work, to keep the building clean and in good repair, to make the coffee or to help take the services. (Charles' ordination as Priest certainly comes at a very welcome time!).
So, yes, of course, "Church" continues during the Vacancy! As do all the activities that together help to make up the rhythm of the life and spiritual energy of St John's.
God is faithful. He continues to work out his good purpose in us and those we meet, even - perhaps especially - in the midst of change and uncertainty. Just as he has been at work in and through the lives of all those who have worshipped at St John's during the last 100 years.
So let's pray, in these days, for clarity of vision for the future. For each of us and for the Church of Christ here and around the world.