It was a special moment – a holy moment. During one of our recent Communion services at Beechmore Court, I started to read Psalm 23. No sooner had I completed the first couple of verses, I realised that I wasn’t reading alone - quietly but clearly and with increasing confidence, the whole of those gathered for that service were repeating the Authorised Version of the 23rd Psalm that had been committed to memory many, many years ago. It was true worship – a holy moment.

Elizabeth and I are grateful for the opportunity to serve together as joint chaplains to Cedarmore, building on the fine legacy of Brian and Barbara Stevens’ years of faithful ministry – they are missed, but also prayed for as they develop their new pathways of ministry in London’s East End.

Our vision in these very early days for us in our roles, is to be chaplains to all of Cedarmore, whilst continuing to regularly serve Beechmore. We are slowly getting to know those who live, work and visit across the four sites. There have been opportunities to speak and pray with several, in addition to participation in the regular services across CHA.

Since the founding of Cedarmore, volunteers have played a central role in the life of the charity – the chaplaincy is no exception. Week by week and month by month so many are willing to take services, bible studies, other groups, musical support, and volunteering in a variety of crucial roles. To all, ‘thank you’ for your continuing ministries which are so appreciated. (And ‘thank you’ to Brian James for organising the various rotas!!).

We are learning not to ever underestimate the gifts, abilities and unique value of each and every member of the CHA community – all have abilities and can contribute so much. Professor John Wyatt in his book about navigating the transitions of later life ‘The Final Lap’ asks: ‘What are old people for?’.....He looks at a list of opportunities we have when retired: ‘increased availability for others, life wisdom, time to pray more and to share our faith; we can still offer friendship......we can still share our faith and hope with others’.

We hope and pray that we can, together with so many, play our part in seeing the Kingdom of God come more and more fully within and among the whole Cedarmore community. ‘To God be the glory’.

Rev’d Peter and Dr Elizabeth Swaffield