Greta was understandably delighted to see me again after 11 days away. She asked me if I had brought her anything, and of course I did — a new collar and a chew toy.
As I was preparing to come home, I reflected on the gifts that I had received on my trip too.
When I walked St Cuthbert’s Way in 2015, the image that stayed with me was the path across the tidal sands marked with poles. Vocation — as I often tell folks — is a matter of walking from pole to pole, focusing on the next right step even though the end is hard to see. It was a word I needed as a new priest in the middle of a PhD program, anxious about jobs.
This time, as a more experienced priest in a long-term ministry setting, what struck me were the little markers on the trail. They are not large! And sometimes, like in this picture, they’re hard to notice if you aren’t looking, expecting to find them. This one led between the back of a house and a fence! I almost missed it. The word for me now is LOOK: look for the small signs of God at work, even where you least expect them. God is constantly at work at Trinity Church, and it’s important to constantly look for the markers.
I wanted to virtually share with you two more places that I hope to share with you in person: Little Gidding and Canterbury Cathedral.
An Introduction to Little Gidding
Inside the Church of St. John the Evangelist, Little Gidding
Canterbury Cathedral
A few extra pictures from Canterbury:
Walking the Pilgrims’ Way
Arriving at the West Gate of the city
The Compass Rose is the symbol of the global Anglican Communion
The site of the martyrdom of St. Thomas Becket, where I offered each one of your prayer requests. Thank you for entrusting me with the ministry of intercession.
Another view of St. Thomas’ martyrdom
The steps to the high altar, where St. Thomas’ shrine was located, have been worn down by pilgrims’ feet. It was also traditional to climb these steps on your knees.
Are you ready to look for some signs of God’s work here at Trinity Church? Let’s go!
Yours faithfully in Christ,
The Rev. Cn. Dr. Kara Slade, Associate Rector