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is what the Gospel can offer them: hope in the darkest moments of human life. In times of
illness, in times of sorrow, in times of bereavement Christians offer the hope that God has
given us in his son Jesus Christ, whose birth we have so recently celebrated. It is through
his life, his crucifixion and his resurrection that we have hope. That surely is the message
that we need to convey to those who are looking for that something extra in their lives, that
something which our consumerist world fails to offer them.
The season of Epiphany provides the Church with an ideal opportunity for mission. But many
see the Church as divided. Divided by doctrine, divided by allegiance, divided by its approach
to the affairs which concern the world today. We need to do better. We need to get to grips
with the issues of modern life, come to a consensus and unite around our firm belief in the
saving grace of God manifested in Jesus Christ.
We can only be truly missional when the church is united. It is appropriate therefore that in
the middle of this season of Epiphany, this time of the year when we seek to show Jesus to
the world, that we have a special week, the week of prayer for Christian unity. Christians are
at their best when we are united, when we work together for a common cause. What better
cause is there than the conversion of this nation of ours. This Epiphany pray for the unity of
the Church. Pray for the conversion of this country. Pray that we have the courage and the
depth of knowledge to reveal Jesus Christ to a doubting and sceptical world.
Fr Roy

The Grove

48 LODE LANE, SOLIHULL, B91 2AE
REGISTERED WITH AND APPROVED BY SOLIHULL MBC

A cosy, comfortable “home from home”

Residential Home for the elderly which is near to
the Hospital and the centre of Solihull.

Qualified staff are available for Long
Stay, Short Term or Respite Care.

Enquiries to Mrs. L. Green

Telephone No: 0121 705 3356

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