Anna’s letter for March

Dear Friends

Growing in Faith

Ten years ago Mozambique was suffering the worst floods in living memory.  The BBC recently recalled them and interviewed Sofia Pedro, who caught the world’s gaze when she was rescued by helicopter from the tree where she’d given birth to her daughter Rosita.  Sofia now has a second young daughter and Rosita, after her unusual and risky start in life, has grown into a tall, graceful and proud older sister with a winning grin.  Perhaps it is in the growth of children that we notice most clearly the passing of time.

At Rivertots, our weekly group for under 5s, their parents and carers, the team agreed after Christmas to continue telling the children the story of Jesus’ life after his unusual and risky start.  They’ve heard about his childhood learning carpentry, his teaching, stories and miracles.  The children loved the wedding at Cana, when a glass of water mysteriously turned into “wine” with the help of a few drops of food colouring!  They’ll follow Jesus’ story right through to Palm Sunday, the Last Supper, Good Friday and Easter, in line with our firm commitment to tell the gospel story afresh for each generation and all ages in our church and community.

Another special way in which we do this is at the Palm Sunday evening service which, like the Christmas carol service, comprises readings, music from All Saints’ choir and hymns for all to sing.  It’s on Sunday 28th March at 6.30 p.m. and is entitled Easter Retold: a seasonal carol service.   Do come, bring friends and neighbours, and stay for light refreshments in the Long Room overlooking the river.

Finally, we return to Mozambique, a country with which the Anglican Church in London has strong links through ALMA (The Angola, London and Mozambique Association). This year’s Lent Appeal is focusing on ALMA’s Children, the fund which promotes education and the relief of poverty amongst the 50% of the population who are aged under 18.  Giving to this fund is another way in which we tell the gospel story of God’s love for all his children, especially those whose start in life is risky and uncertain.  For example, one key project is All Saints School in Nacala, which has 400 pupils including 47 orphans.  If you’d like to donate to this Lent appeal, you can do so at any church service between now and Easter, or through the website: www.almalink.org.  Thank you.

With all good wishes

Anna Brooker

Priest in Charge, All Saints’ Church.