The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025 is an international sailing event where tall ships from around the world compete and showcase their vessels. From last Saturday until yesterday, the harbour was packed full of tall ships and people, with Aberdeen serving as a host city. There was a wonderful view from the Presbytery office, particularly as they began to sail out to sea.
Our Moderator, Rev Shuna Dicks, took part in a blessing of the Tall Ships as they left the harbour. Each ship/yacht received an individual blessing from a multi faith gathering, which was radioed to each ship/yacht as well as being blasted out on the loud speakers.
Farewells are a part of life, but that doesn't make them easy. Over the coming months we have a number of ministers demitting/retiring and as the office bearer returns come in (thanks to those who've already been in touch) it is evident that, as with every year, there is a steady flow of people stepping down whilst others step up. What do we to, at a congregational and Presbytery level, to acknowledge the contribution someone has made, and to bless them as they take the next step? How can we celebrate what has been achieved and give thanks for the relationships built, as well as recognise that someone leaving can create a sense of uncertainty and introduce a period of change/transition? The practicalities of saying goodbye are made more challenging when someone is leaving through ill health. And if there isn't someone willing to step up, how does the work get done?
John's gospel focuses a lot of attention of the farewell discourses of Jesus. There is much packed into those chapters. I am particularly struck by his words of assurance, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." The peace that Jesus promises is the peace that Paul describes as passing all understanding.
I hope that all those preparing to say farewell get an opportunity for a 'good goodbye'. It's not easy to leave a place where you have served over many years and are known and loved. May there be peace in the leaving.
And may that peace be known too by those who are, in some ways, left behind. A peace which enables them to begin looking to the future, without being afraid.
Deep peace of the running wave to you.
Deep peace of the flowing air to you.
Deep peace of the quiet earth to you.
Deep peace of the shining stars to you.
Deep peace of the gentle night to you.
Moon and stars pour their healing light on you.
Deep peace of Christ, the light of the world to you.
(As adapted by John Rutter)
Rev Stella
