Sermon

6th September 26

Our New Testament readings this morning set down principles for the Christian life in general, and the local Church in particular.  In the epistle, St Paul reminds the Church gathered in Rome of Jesus’ words “You shall love your neighbour as yourself”.  He shows how all the other commandments are summed up in these words, and urges all Christians to “conduct (themselves) becomingly as in the day”.

But none of us is perfect, and Christian communities can be harmed by the actions of one or more of their members.  Jesus knows that this will happen and gives advice as to how this should be handled.  We heard this in today’s gospel reading.  I suspect that the experience of the early Church proved how right he was, to the extent that these words are included by Matthew in his gospel.  For there will be tensions; there will be disputes; and occasionally behaviour that is the cause of scandal: even in the best of local churches.

Jesus’ words remind us of the great responsibility placed on those who lead Churches today.  This falls mainly on the Parish Priest, Churchwardens, and Safeguarding Officer, although from time-to-time others may have to be involved.

In most cases, these conflicts are resolved privately, although there are sadly occasions when they become public knowledge, to the profit of the media, and the delight of the enemies of the Church.

This month, our thoughts and prayers are focussed on the leadership of this congregation.  As Fr James begins his ministry here, we pray for him.  Rather like the proverbial iceberg, most of a Priest’s work goes unseen.  Indeed, some people joke about the only day we work is Sunday.  But much of our work, by its very nature, remains unseen: known only to the other individuals involved and, of course, to God.

But the Parish Priest should not, indeed cannot, do everything.  The New Testament model of the Church as the Body of Christ with every member having a role, reminds each of us of the part that each of us must play.  But, as we have seen, there are some specific lay leadership roles that are particularly critical to the local Church.

Immediately after mass, we will gather at the back of Church, to thank Dave and Sarah for all that they have done for this Church and Parish.  Most of you are well aware of their contributions, both here, and in the wider parish.  But, because of the confidential nature of certain matters, no one else is aware of their involvement except the Priest, often because he has dragged them into it in the first place!  So, it is right that I, on behalf of the Vicars with whom they have worked, thank them for their discretion, their advice, and their action, in the occasional difficult situations that have arisen.  And, as we thank God for them, it is right that we pray for Tim and Colin, who as Elisha received Elijah’s mantle (2 Kings 2), have now received Dave’s. 

Amen