Lewis reflects on his journey so far

The Diocese of Oxford very generously hosted me and my fellow Ordinands for a 3 night silent retreat, in preparation for our Ordination on 5th July. The retreat was prayerful, reflective, and restful, and I arrived at Christ Church Cathedral on the morning of the Ordination feeling rejuvenated and (mostly) calm….. All sense of feeling refreshed and calmed was completely blown away by the joyful, yet adrenaline-filled experience of being ordained! And this sensation has not really subsided 11 days in!

There were some natural worries associated with relocating and beginning life as a curate, especially considering how blessed and happy we as a family have felt living in Bristol these past few years. However, the welcome we have received at St Frideswide’s has been incredible, and we are very grateful for this. We feel at home already, and this is not by luck, but because of how so many individuals have taken a genuine interest in us as a family.

Each night, I complete a short journal of my day’s activities and my feelings. The diversity of what happens each day is vast, yet it is always clear how the day’s different activities are part of the church’s mission and vibrant life. I am blessed to be tagging alongside many dedicated and loving Christians, all serving God in their different ways. From shadowing a home visit for an upcoming Baptism, to working with our Spurgeon colleagues to plan joint summer services, I have truly felt slotted into an alive and vibrant church, which is simply getting on with worshipping God, but also has the good grace to let me get in the way whilst I learn.

A massive highlight is being in and around the Water Eaton Church Centre on Tuesdays. It is such an encouraging place to be when you can see so many people faithfully and cheerfully serving, and clearly many people who are grateful for all of the different things happening in the Centre on that day.

11 days in, 1084 still to play with!

Lewis



StFrideswides Church