Gratitude by Francisco Estevao
Synod Rep reflections (Jan-Feb 2024):
When I started the new year and considered where my family was (metaphorically, and now that I am over 60 years of age) I thanked the Lord, thinking how great God is… ALL of the time as they say, hey?!
I am also thankful that when things get tough and my problems seem to come in THREE’s, I have Stewart and the rest of you to lean on as well as my family and friend outside of Anglican Church Robina.
While sitting in in a Parish Council meeting a few weeks ago, that feeling of community as well as the all-important GRATITUDE resurfaced. Isn’t gratitude said to be the GREATEST emotion?!
Here is a short list. (Perhaps you can spend a minute or two and think of your own list.)
- I’m grateful we have families who think of our parish when considering what they can donate to us in memory of their recently deceased family member, remembering also how much stronger our church is because of that family member’s contributions to the church over many years. (THANK YOU Alan Mayer, Jeanette and family.)
- I’m grateful for the people who sacrifice their time to help run the parish carefully, prayerfully and professionally, … from my Jan who looks after the flowers, through to my Synod buddy Jane, to the people who manage the sound desk and camera and the church wardens. (There are many I haven’t mentioned, but you know who you are and you get the point, I believe.)
- I’m grateful for our partners who help us support those disenfranchised, lonely, ill, and those desperate for accommodation, transport to church, etc. AND those desperate for a bit of cash, a bit of food, and companionship. (I am sure Bowen and Anne in the office have lots of stories if you wish to find out more.) As you can see, apart from the all-important and absolutely crucial administrative requirements here (e.g. continually improving our Christmas and Easter preparations and machinations), your financial offerings in the plate/church bank account goes a long way, and when I look at this positive aspect of our stressed finances I am thankful yet again.
- Last but not least, I am grateful for the hard-working volunteers and management of our Opportunity Shops. This arm of our church community certainly and significantly helps keep us afloat as well.
Again, you may have your own list. You may wish to share it with me for possible broadcast in this medium, or you may wish to let me know what issue or note of thanks you would like me to take to Synod in June.
May the Almighty continue to shower you and yours with blessings, as well as strength and support during times of adversity.
Francisco (“Franc”) ESTEVAO