8 Jun 2008 - Patriarch's Anniversary Services and Address

Wednesday 18th June 2008 marks the second anniversary of the Accession of our Moderating Bishop to the Patriarchate of Magdala and Patmos.

++Barry has requested a time of simple reflection across the community on the day, effectively his Patriarchal Festival, and will be leading a quiet and meditative Mass at his private Chapel within Church House at 11-30am on the following Sunday (22nd).

Anyone who would like to attend is asked to confirm attendance by Friday 20th at the latest) with the Dean of Chapter.

Patriarch's Epistle

Beloved in the light of God's grace

As we hurtle ever forward on the great journey of our life in faith with one another, it sometimes takes the power of Superman to make ourselves stop for a second, take a breath, and assess what we have done to get to the point of pausing, and to reflect upon our journey ahead.

It seems only yesterday that I took the first steps on the path of formation, let alone kneeling at the faldstool to be mitred as Patriarch. And there have been many ups and downs during that journey. Grief intermingling joy, rapture in the midst of fear and terror, pain and laughter, sunshine and shadow. Sometimes it has seemed unlikely that anyone could come through these tumultuous events, and I believe that alone one probably would not.

However, with God holding our hearts, and friends like we have within ICSJ to walk shoulder to shoulder with, we have done, and we will do in the years to come.

Since my accession I have come to realise the importance of the role I have, as a figurehead and guide to all who come into our arena, and I hope and fervently pray that I have not fallen short in my duties. This is not a request for people to massage my ego in any way, but I do, as a human being, often wonder if I am up to the task. Again, I say, alone I am not. However, as the lungs cannot function without the heart, the muscles without the brain and so on, I know that the 'Patriarch' is merely another worker in the machinery of God's plan, no more valuable, no more important, than any of the other constituent parts.

As this anniversary approaches, I would urge each of you to sepnd some time on the 18th June reflecting on the value that your particular 'part' plays in the plan for growth and embracing unity of God's kingdom. Like mine, maybe it needs oiling a little to freshen its' action, and I hope that this reflection period will help you to be willing to be led to the pasture of grace that God offers all of us in ministry from time to time.

You are my deepest and closest friends and 'family' and I offer you every blessing that this worn out old cog can give. May His grace shine in your hearts and give you joy abounding.

Pax eternam tibicum

++Juan de Dios 1