Today was a
special day for St Paul’s as Gillian Gamble led the service and then presided
at Holy Communion for the first time. The church was packed, with friends of
Gillian and many of the congregation of St Peter’s joining us. The crush was
such that we had to bring in extra chairs. If Gillian felt any timidity or
apprehension, it did not show.
Steve preached
the sermon using the reading for St Peter’s day of Peter’s assertion: “you are
the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” It would be her challenge for Gillian
to present this understanding of the world around, but it was also a challenge
to each one of us – what do we make of Jesus?
After the
service there was a “Bring and Share” lunch. At the end of this Gillian was
invited to cut a cake to celebrate the occasion. She was also presented with
cards from both congregations and the gift of a Home Communion set.
With Gillian’s
gifts of pastoral care we are sure that it will be much used.
