The Diocese is looking forward to the Ecumenical Synod which takes place in St Ninian’s Lower School (Bemahague) on the evening of 4th February. The event includes representatives from all the churches and Christian organisations on the Island - Baptist, Catholic, Elim, Methodist, Living Hope, Salvation Army, SUMT and URC - along with members of the Anglican church. The meeting starts at 6.30 with refreshments available from 6pm.
This is the second year in which the Sodor and Man Synod has agreed, at the instigation of Bishop Robert, to hold an ecumenical event. The first one, held in February 2014, was warmly appreciated and the resolve continues that we should build on the shared potential for action and mission among the churches of the Island.
Rev Dr Sandra Millar is the key speaker in February. Sandra is Head of Projects and Development for the Archbishops’ Council where the Church of England’s national projects currently focus on ministry following the birth of a child and after bereavement. She was previously Diocesan Children’s Officer in Diocese of Gloucester for six years, building up work with children and families.
Sandra believes that churches of today must give priority to children and families, making it a precedence to include children and families at the heart of worship, theology, ethics and mission.
A particular interest of Sandra’s is about how we communicate – how Christian faith is communicated in appropriate ways for today’s culture and its connecting language, to make it accessible to people who are not already part of existing churches.
Photo - Sandra Millar
