When I was out and about on the holidays I often noticed groups of people. Mostly, I saw them at coffee shops.  I noticed them because no matter the setting, the ethnicity or the gender of the group, there were similarities. 

Some groups were smaller than others but all were gathered around a table, often a few extra chairs drawn in for good measure.  There were empty cups of coffee and new ones being ordered, pieces of cake or something else delicious to share.  Each group was engaged, present to each other and connected.

Connection to our community, our children, our family, our faith is so significant we seek it out. It is so important that we notice it when we don’t have it. Jesus is with us in all of these situations. Jesus was radical in his call to love everyone, not just immediate family. He calls us into community. So when we gather for a coffee and catch-up to reconnect with those we love I believe he is with us.

"For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”(Matthew 18:20 NRSVCE)

Many blessings,

Stephanie Stewart (Religious Education Coordinator)