East Anglia Methodist chair set to move 

The Rev Dr Julian Pursehouse, Chair of the East Anglia Methodist District and convenor of NWCT is about to move on from his role and here he reflects on his time in Churches Together in Norfolk and Waveney (NWCT)

Looking back – Looking forward!

Over the last decade it has been a joy and a privilege to be associated with Churches Together in Norfolk and Waveney as a senior leader in the Methodist Church and in recent years to be the convenor of the Church Leaders Group. I am now the longest serving Church Leader in the county and it has been a joy to serve alongside many able and gracious colleagues from other church traditions. 
 
Each year the senior leader’s group has met twice yearly for lunch, prayer, counsel, and mutual encouragement, as well as other special occasions like the consecration of Bishops! This time has been precious, as we have sought to support one another, particularly during the challenges of a world-wide pandemic, when public worship was stopped, and our lives were reduced to a much smaller footprint. We shared our common pastoral concern for our clergy, laity, and churches!
 
When I reflect upon this period of time, I am often reminded of the words of the Apostle Paul, at the beginning of the Epistle to the Philippians, where with great affection he holds the congregation in his heart, he gives thanks for their partnership in the Gospel and joyfully prays for their continuing witness and service to the Gospel.
 
‘I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now.’
 
As I prepare to leave the county in the summer and move to pastures new, I am thoroughly glad that I have served here in this beautiful county and met so many inspiring people who through the gift of faith are seeking to make a difference! 
 
I am confident that my successor, Rev Helen Hollands, will bring much warmth and energy to ecumenical relations in the county and I wish her well.
 
Rev Dr Julian M Pursehouse
 
Photo courtesy of the East Anglia Methodist District