I love the month of September, particularly because of what it brings in terms of crisp mornings, glorious autumn colours, fruitfulness (in the gardens and fields) and a sense of energy after the summer break. I think there is often a sense of potential and possibility - taking the ideas that have begun to germinate earlier in the year and turning them into plans.
In the lives of our congregations, and the Presbytery, September is typically jampacked. On Saturday, when we meet together for business, the Guild will be coming together in Perth for their annual gathering. (We wish those travelling from our Presbytery to the event well and hope they have a great day). The previous week saw Doors Open Day in Aberdeen, with churches opening up for anyone and everyone to come in. And throughout the Presbytery there will be fundraisers, social events and the restarting of various groups, alongside Kirk Session meetings and the realisation that if you want to get anything done before Christmas, you need to get on with it now.
It can feel busy. And there's always a sense of disappointment when multiple things happen on the same day. But you can only be in one place at a time. And it is important to build in time where you can reflect on what you are hearing and seeing and doing. Going from one thing to the next thing to the next thing without a break can result in mental indigestion!
I hope that we have a fruitful time on Saturday as we consider the business in front of us and as we meet together to encourage and support one another. If you've not already registered on Eventbrite, please can you do so today. This will help us make sure we have enough food for lunch.
Looking ahead, we are planning our first Induction Training for the evening of Wednesday 30th September (7-9.30pm at Devana Parish Church, Fonthill Road, Aberdeen). Those who are new to Presbytery or in their first five years of ministry have been specifically invited but it is an event open to all. Look out for more details in the coming weeks. If you feel like you don't have a good handle on what Presbytery is and how we work, come along and bring your questions with you.
Rev Stella
