A Note from Jeremy 

I think a lot of people have been deeply concerned by the events leading up to Justin Welby’s decision to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury. Evidence that Church institutions have been protected while victims were denied justice and a voice has been overwhelming, and root and branch changes have been called for.

What of Harwell and Chilton churches? Our heart is to see God's kingdom expressed in all we do, which includes a deep commitment to our community. There’s amazing work happening week in, week out. From our Fledgelings groups for pre-schoolers to Generation Gold, from the Pastoral Care teams to Sunday services and celebrations, we want to express the love, joy and peace we have found through Jesus Christ in service and celebration, one to one and in larger groups. Partnerships with ECHO, the Christian charity working with young people in the area, and with CAP, tackling poverty and debt, help us to stay firmly rooted in reality and committed to building flourishing relationships.

Good hearts and good intentions need to be supported by good processes, and I want to highlight the work of our Parish Safeguarding Officers, Judith Gold (Chilton) and Sue Greatbanks (Harwell), who share with me overall responsibility for ensuring that safeguarding is considered in all that we do. They are always available if you have any concerns, backed by the Diocesan Safeguarding Team for Oxford Diocese. You can find more information and contact details on our website at harwellandchiltonchurches.org.uk/safeguarding.

There is always room for improvement, and I will be working with our PCCs to see where we can do better. As we follow the vision to put children, young people and families at the centre of a more Christ-like Church, safeguarding is a vital foundation, and expresses our shared conviction that God’s love can only truly be shown in God’s way: the way of the cross.


Revd Jeremy Parsons
Rector
Harwell and Chilton Churches

November 2024