We need to listen to God, particularly now, and that is because times are hard in the world at the moment, and many are simply not listening. Things are also challenging in our Diocese. Over the last 4 years or so, our Diocesan Bishop, Bishop Anne, has been subjected to some intense and unfair media attention. The past 12 months have been particularly unpleasant as certain individuals, some named and many anonymous, have chosen to use such public platforms as the Press and Social Media to voice their opinions against Bishop Anne. Many of the statements made are deeply misguided and completely inaccurate. Many are total hearsay, based on whispers, gossip, and personal dislikes. Recent articles in The Times newspaper are based on leaked confidential information by an anonymous source. All of this has a damaging impact, none more so than on Bishop Anne and her family. If you are hearing this and do not feel concerned, then you need to listen. As Rector of this Church, I cannot stand idly by and ignore what is happening. If we call ourselves Christians, then we need to work harder to ensure we are seen to practice what we preach. This is a place of peace and love, we come here to worship God and love our fellow human beings, and by doing so we should leave here feeling the same way for our secular lives. We should listen properly.
Blessings Always
Rev Canon Terry Taggart