Welcome

“ The beauty of the light cast by the glass is inspiring but the hope that can be found in such beauty is beyond measure.

THE changing light this month marks the shifting of the seasons in the northern hemisphere.

Easter sneaks into March this year, falling on the last day of this month, but the season not only brings hope but a shift in light – longer days and shorter hours of darkness, working towards a midsummer peak.

The change of light alters our perspective when we are outdoors – the sun (when it appears) is higher in the sky.

In December (on a domestic front) we necessarily replaced the front and back doors to our home. The casting of light mattered in the process – we had an element of stained glass and wanted to benefit from this in the future. The beauty of the light cast by the glass is inspiring but the hope that can be found in such beauty is beyond measure.

Easter brings both hope and light to our world. For many it may feel as if the Church of Scotland is in the midst of constant and difficult change – but as a reforming church, change is part of our make-up. Casting an eye over historic copies of Life and Work demonstrates that change has always been part of the Church, even in the darkest of times.

The physical quality of light is a daily gift to us to enable growth and hope to flourish, but light can be found in many places and spaces.

Shortly before I took up the role of Editor of Life and Work, a survey of the social capital of the Church of Scotland had been undertaken. The value of the services provided was phenomenal – and it may not have fully embraced every aspect of the Church’s work at a local level. This work may be worth more financially today than it was then.

Amid the challenges and (at times) angst of today, what must not be forgotten is the light which continues to shine brightly in many neighbourhoods as local need informs outreach through service via numerous initiatives including foodbanks, warm spaces, bereavement support, dementia groups as well as providing spaces for uniformed organisations and other groups. (This is not an exhaustive list.) There remains a desire too to provide love and support for partner churches and organisations overseas. The number of churches may not be so great in number moving forward, but the Christian love, service and outreach from each of these places will continue to shine a bright light in our communities – and provide vital hope and service to those most in need.

As we experience the powerful Easter message of hope, let the light brought to us by the resurrection continue to shine brightly in our communities.

Lynne McNeil Editor