Refreshing wisdom at Wychcroft

It's certainly a bit different from Bermondsey and the grounds of Wychcroft (left), the Diocesan retreat house, looked pretty spectacular today in the bright January sun.

It's amazing to think this tranquil rural spot is (a) part of our diocese and (b) so close to London.

I was there to lead a quiet day entitled, Refreshing Wisdom.

My brief was to bring some of the wisdom from the letters of Peter and James in the New Testament, to members of churches in the diocese had signed up for a day - of refreshing wisdom from the Scriptures.

They were a great group. The Wychcroft food was, as usual, wonderful and the scenery was
beautiful.

Next to the main house is the beautiful simple chapel with its painting of Christ the Worker (right), which I love and which is so appropriate for the Church of England diocese that covers south London and east Surrey, with its millions of workers.

Wychcroft

It was good to have time to be quiet, to think, to pray, to relax and to hear the ancient but ever new message of Scripture, as we focussed on who we are, the people of God, ('But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light') and how we are to live (from James), living out the royal law of neighbour love,  not showing favouritism, guarding our tongues.

And it was a special delight to meet again George, who has just celebrated 60 years in the ordained ministry, and his wife, Margaret, and wonderful to hear that in a few days time they will celebrate their Diamond Wedding anniversary. And dear George is still preaching the word, and still ministering in churches well into his ninth decade.Wonderful.