A message from Rev'd. Andrew M. Emison

Dear Friends,  
   
A change of minister is an opportunity to step back and to reflect on how our story has led us to this point. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate ministry. By ministry, I don’t mean that of Denise, Neil or Andrew Emison, I mean the ministry of Frodsham Methodist Church.  
   
In September, it will be my privilege to come alongside of you in ministry, listening to what you have discerned that God is calling us to do.  In time,your ministry will become our ministry, but it will never be “mine”. It is true that Conference is sending me to take a “principal and directing role” amongst you, but that leadership is to be modelled on Jesus as he takes towel and bowl and kneels before those he calls friends. My first task will be to not break the good, courageous and mission-shaped work which is already happening!  
   
The calling we share is to be a priestly, prophetic and evangelising fellowship within our community that celebrates and shares God’s love. In our Methodist understanding, no part of that great calling is exclusively mine, but it is my privilege to share in it with you. I already know that I am joining a gifted team.   
  
As I met with various people during my visit I was struck by how many chose to mention how much they valued the ministry of Andrea and Pippa and of the gifting and grace of our Leadership Team. Our Vision and Strategy Document 2015-2020 clearly represents a significant work of discernment and provides the framework for our way forward. We have resilient structures, we shall continue to need prayer, the ministry of God’s Word, the power of the Holy Spirit and most of all God’s grace as together we seek to join in God’s mission.  
   
We shall continue to pray for Denise as she finishes her sabbatical and moves to Crewe/South Cheshire and for Neil as he continues to lead the life and ministry of our circuit. 

We celebrate the glory of Christian ministry to which we are called and in which we all share:  
  
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people,in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.” (1 Peter 2:9)  
   
‘Alleluia! Amen! Naomi, Matthew and Sophie share my excitement as we join with you to take the next steps in our discipleship together.  
   
Grace and peace.

Andrew

---