As we embark upon 2019, our country is in anunprecedented state, one giving rise to much anxiety, in which we are facedwith the most significant of decisions for at least a generation. As the Brexitdebate continues, it is very unclear what the future will hold. It is not onlyparliament that is very divided, we are divided as a country. The referendum,which was supposed to settle the issue, seems to have given rise to hostilityas well as division.
In situations such as these, I find the words of Psalm46, which have given solace to people for thousands of years, of greatrelevance: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.Therefore we will not fear.
Whether or not we feel able to put our trust in God, onething is clear: there is an overriding need for us to come together as a nationin this coming year and beyond. Reconciliation is at the heart of the Christianfaith: Christ came to reconcile us to God and to one another. Humanreconciliation is essential for the well-being of our society, the communitieswithin it and ourselves. whether or not we have faith.
I hope and pray that we shall all be able to work forthat reconciliation and the common good in the months ahead.
May God bless you richly in 2019
Bishop John.
