Life is full of comings and goings as people move from place to place for whatever reason. I recall when I was tracing my family tree, finding a long lost family member who, back in 1912, left the security of his home and all his family and friends to emigrate to New Zealand for a new life – and he did this alone. To this day, I wonder why he did that. What was so wrong with life in England? But of course, I am not in context with him, because in the early part of the 20th century, life was exceedingly difficult, and opportunities few and far between. Something better, more tantalising, was available on the other side of the globe – and he chased after whatever that was, only to return to Europe in 1916 to fight in WW1 and lose his life. Those friends and family members who waved him off didn’t see him again. They must have been devastated and completely heartbroken.
As I too prepare to say goodbye to the Barrow Benefice, I am deeply saddened, but also extremely grateful that I have been able to spend more than four wonderful years here, ministering in such a special place. I have met so many people; I have walked alongside the grieving, shared happy and joyful times with all the baptisms and schools’ work; enjoyed sharing with some of you the many afternoon tea parties and other events that have taken place – and in fact I feel I know everyone really well, as if you were all part of my extended family. Saying goodbye will be painful. Thankfully, I am not heading off to other side of the world, but I am moving counties, over to Essex, close to where I grew up as a child. My new role will be a Team Vicar with the Saffron Walden team, with special responsibility for two pretty parishes and churches – Debden and Wimbish. Shorter working hours, and living 15 minutes from my elderly parents, are the main reasons for moving, as I now need to be closer to them as they become older and a little more frail. Although saying that, they are both well into their nineties, and are really quite remarkable!
My licencing will take place on 24th October at St Mary the Virgin, Debden, and I do hope that as many of you as possible will be able to come along. I would love my new congregations to meet my old ones, but I do wonder what you will be telling them! My last service will be at 10am on Sunday 15th September, at Risby Church. I had better come armed with plenty of tissues, as I will need them!
Meanwhile, I am reminded of the passage from Scripture set for my last day, which is from Mark’s Gospel, Chapter 8. 34b, and says this: ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’ Throughout my ministry, I have always endeavoured to listen to God and follow him wherever that may lead me. And now he calls again – but to a different place, and to different congregations and different challenges. Thank you all for your love, support and friendship during the time I have been here.
Every blessing,
Revd Lynda, Barrow Rectory
Rev'd Lynda Sebbage
01284 811280
revlyndasebbage@gmail.com
RECTOR OF THE BARROW BENEFICE
Gt & Lt Saxham, Barrow, Risby & Denham
