A message from Rita Goddard, Lay Minister

Posted by Admin on 26 May 2009, 12:00 am

On Sunday 3rd May 2009, a boat called Scarlet Oyster set off from Cowes for Brighton Marina. What was unusual about this, you might ask? This, after all, is nothing special for the Isle of Wight and especially for Cowes. My interest in this boat is because it is taking part in The Ellen MacArthur Trust Skandia – Round Britain Voyage.

As many of you will know, this is a project which involves 85 young people sailing the 48 foot yacht Scarlet Oyster the 2000 nautical miles around Britain on a four month voyage stopping at 17 ports around Great Britain. The young people are all in recovery from cancer and leukaemia. As with all of the Trust’s activities, the journey will focus on rebuilding their confidence and most importantly, having fun. Ellen MacArthur joined the group as they set off from Cowes and sailed with them to Portsmouth. She will also be sailing with them on a number of other legs of the Voyage. Whilst the young people seem to be having a good time, the crew have also experienced some difficulties, due mainly to adverse weather conditions. However, experienced sailors and support teams are always on hand to give advice, protection and ensure safety.

It was this thought of support teams coming alongside that started me thinking of our own voyages of life. There are many occasions when we enjoy ourselves sharing with others the good times of life. However, there are also times when we experience difficulties. Who are the ones who come alongside us then? Who are the ones who help us out or support us in times of trouble? Very often it’s the same people who join in the ‘fun times’ of life and how thankful we are for family and friends who share our life with us. In addition we may find in Jesus Christ, a friend, who as the Bible tells us, ‘sticks closer than a brother.’ He can come alongside us in both the good and the bad times, giving us direction, protection and many other things besides. Ellen MacArthur is sailing on some of the legs of the Round Britain Voyage, giving help and support at various times. God himself will be with us on every leg of our journey if we want him to be. The Bible also tells us that he has promised that ‘he will never leave us, or forsake us.’ So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.” Who better to have with us on our journey of life?

Oh and by the way, Scarlet Oyster is scheduled to sail back into Cowes on September 13th. I might see you down at the Marina!

God Bless.

Rita

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Do you know of someone who would appreciate a visit by the church? Or would you, yourself, like to meet and talk with someone from the church? Please let Lyn know or contact one of the Churchwardens whose details are given in Northwood News and in the Parish Church Officers section of this website. We’re happy to meet with you, to bring communion to you if you cannot come to church – or to explore with you if you just want to know more about the Christian faith. We are always here for you – because that’s what we’re about!

Lyn McRostie

Rector of Northwood.