from the August 2005 Parish Magazine
Our Thanks and Good Wishes

Sister Maureen Henderson writes: When I first came to Leatherhead to explore my vocation as a Solitary, Bishop Ian, Bishop of Dorking, asked me to write a rule of life (rule for life is more appropriate). I was unsure as to the right balance of prayer and active involvement, but I wrote that I saw myself as dedicated primarily to a life of prayer. Through that prayer I would learn to listen to the circumstances of my life and so discover the ministry to which God was calling me.

Those words have stood me well over the last two years as my circumstances have changed radically. Through pain and disability I have come to see a dear call to a more contemplative life. A Solitary may not appear in church often but he/she is still very much part of the Christian community discovering more deeply the meaning of the communion of saints.

My absence from public ministry does not mean that I am less involved in the life of the parish, rather the reverse, as my involvement is one of hidden prayer. This does not mean that you will not see me around, as I still need friends and human relationships to keep a healthy balance in my life. I hope you will pray for me as I continue to pray for you. Maureen

Elisabeth Burke writes: A very big Thank you to everyone, you all made my placement such a happy and fulfilling time. I was never left standing alone or wondering what to do next and was invited to participate in several of your social and pastoral activities. The months passed very quickly and I was very sorry to leave you all. The placement is rightly planned so that the greatest Christian festival is experienced in a different parish; I was very moved by the services of Holy Week. It was an honour to share in leading of some of them and it both encouraged me and emphasised the enormous responsibility that I am taking on.
There are many things that I will take back with me to strengthen me as I move towards my Ordination at 10.30am on July 3rd at Guildford Cathedral. I am sure I will see some of you when I am in Leatherhead and look forward to keeping in touch. My thanks, love, and prayers. Elisabeth

From David Eaton: Good wishes to Elisabeth who is being ordained deacon and also to Carol Smith who was ordained Priest at St John the Baptist, Epping on Sunday 26 June. Our thanks to Maureen for all that she has brought to Parish life and our continued support and good wishes as her role changes and her valuable ministry continues in a different way.