The encounter with Abraham in Genesis focuses on Blessing. God blesses Abraham, but does that in order that Abraham will be a blessing to others. Like springs of water that start in a very specific place, that then ripple out to form rivers and streams to refresh, sustain and support all other life. 

What follows is that we become uncertain about the truth about ourselves.  Deep down, our self-respect is lessened – and so our respect for others decreases.  It is a long slippery slope.

Dear All Saints and St Marys There is something about how rituals originate and begin that I find really interesting. This week the Feast of Candlemas (or the Feast of the Presentation) is celebrated by the Church. Various rituals and ways of marking this feast have been given to us as a church over the years, mainly to do with blessing and light. St Marys will have Choral Evensong connecting us to some of the traditional canticles and music that has been formed over centurie