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Paignton
(Palace Avenue) Methodist Church
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Dear Friends If there is one thing about human nature that I have learned over the years it is that none of us like change! I’m not just talking about the Church here; it was the same when I was a Civil Servant. Change is something that we are suspicious of – it frightens us a little even. We get comfortable with things as they are; we know what we are doing. Why change the certainty of what is for the uncertainty of change. I am writing this at a time when I am very conscious that change is on all of our minds. For the church and circuit, you will be beginning the process of inviting a new minister for the Paignton section for 2009, and Kina and I are busy writing our profiles and beginning the consultation process which will decide where our ministries will take us in 2009. Change, as embodied in our itinerant Ministry, is part of Methodism, it was something that both Kina and I accepted when we candidated for ministry and it is part of the life of each Methodist Church. It is a thing which I believe enriches Methodism by sharing the many and varied gifts of its ministers (both Presbyters and Deacons) throughout the Connexion. It is natural that at these times of change we should feel anxious, but as Christians we should also know that no matter what we face there is one who will guide and guard us through everything. When I was younger I used to sing this chorus with gusto – I know who holds the future As the years have gone by, I have learned from experience that the sentiment expressed in those words is a fact on which I can build my life. In all times of change, God is with us. “Even though I walk through the valley of death, you are with me, your rod and staff comfort me”. So I encourage you in the days to come, when worries and doubts come over you, to place your trust in God. I would also ask that you hold Kina and myself in your prayers, as we will hold you in ours. Remember - I don’t know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future. God Bless. Paul Click here to find out more about us! Click on the Links to go to the
relevant pages -
Minister's "Surgery"Each Monday from 10.00 to 12.00 I will be available in the vestry for anyone to come and see me about anything at all. So whether you want to come and discuss the previous day's sermon, raise an issue with me, or see me to talk about something happening in your life, you will be most welcome to drop in. Feel free to just turn up on a Monday morning but if you want to make a specific appointment please e-mail me or Telephone +44 (0)1803-555694 - Mobile +44 (0)7804-882582 in advance. Keep an eye on the Weekly Notices for the occasional Monday morning when I will not be available. Since this is a time when our Church will be open there will always be someone around to listen or pray with you. Paul Click here to find out more about us! Click on the Links to go to the
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Click here to contact our
Minister – Revd Paul Saunders If
difficulties are experienced accessing our website or contacting any of our e-mail
addresses please contact us explaining the difficulty. If you notice
a broken link please contact us to tell us about it - thank you.
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