Cathedral friends - Peter and Dawn

Another reason for us looking forward to visiting L'Abri was to see Peter and Dawn who attended the Cathedral with us.

They have now been on staff at L'Abri for four years - seems as though they were with us at St Andrew's only yesterday. Their children have really grown... their oldest fondly remembers Kathedral Kids (and her teacher - still teaching each Sunday morning).

Peter and Dawn seem perfectly suited to their work. They have a wonderful home filled with books and period furniture that creates an atmosphere of comfort and learning. They (seem to) have an open door policy for students who come through constantly. Lots of conversation, prayer and board games.

It was lovely reminiscing about their time at St Andrew's Cathedral. It was Dawn who made sure we were able to visit L'Abri - when we first enquired two weeks ago, they had no room... It's who you know.

Sitting in their living room with these two lovely people was a highlight so far for us. They shared with us their work and what L'Abri hopes to do. They don't think L'Abri is perfect but they see first hand the tremendous work it is able to do in the lives of people searching.

Please pray for Peter and Dawn in their work. Also pray for their children and the incredible experiences they have living in such a dynamic community.

L'Abri

L'Abri
We have just travelled to the south of England to spend time at L'Abri. We're having an incredible time and are so thankful to those who encouraged us to visit this gorgeous place.

Described to us (by another attender) as being in equal parts a third seminary, monastery and rehab; it is a place of prayer where you are encouraged to engage with Scripture in every part of life.

This place of retreat is set in a most spectacular location. But it is still much more than an old manor house. It is filled with beautiful people seriously spending time looking at the Bible while praying, taking time out, studying, engaging with thoughts and ideas, working (physical chores each day) and encouraging one another.

There's lots here to remind me of Golden Grove, the Wednesday Healing Service and the Cathedral.

Thanks to Claire and in particular Tonn (whom I work with) who strongly encouraged Sandra and I visit. We're so very thankful being here.

Sunday Church

Sunday Church.
We were certainly missing our own church family on Sunday (Advent Sunday - we missed a Bach Cantata at St Andrew's). But we were greatly encouraged by visiting St Helen's Bishopsgate. It was fantastic.

The Rev Nigel Styles preached on Isaiah 40 where God speaks "comfort" to his people. It was of great encouragement to us. I suggest you read the passage yourself. His preaching was very clear-he worked hard on the congregation seeing the enormity of God. We also enjoyed the times of fellowship before and after the Service.

We got to say hello to friends Dick Lucas (former Rector at St Helen's) and Brian O'Donohue (church administrator) both of whom have spent time with me on previous trips. Dick encouraged us to sit by him through the service but it was above a heating vent... with jet-lag we were nearly asleep as soon as we sat down so we moved to a cooler spot.

St Helen's has a great community and made us feel very welcome. We were again thankful that as a Christian you can be on the other side of the world and yet feel like you're at home.

Arrived

We've made it.
After a long but somewhat relaxing flight (what's not to enjoy?), we landed not long ago and are riding the Tube into church as I type this. We're very excited to be here safely.  The weather is cold (although we were watched by so many before leaving, it's still a real shock after leaving Sydney's heat). But it was great to hear "mind the gap please" on the Tube.
We are staying not far from Borough Markets in the home of another Minister, a location I've stayed at before.

Dear friends,
Sandra and I are planning on keeping this page up to date with details of our trip so that you may follow us and hopefully be encouraged.
Chris and Sandra