Dear Friends,
It’s amazing to think that we are almost halfway through the year, but let’s not dwell on that. As we step into May the days are now longer, and our gardens are bursting into colour. My Magnolia’s deep red blooms make me smile every time I step outside. After the cold dark and wet weather we have had, there’s a wonderful feeling of life unfolding all around us. It’s also a great season for the Church, as we get together and celebrate all those special occasions May brings.
May is a perfect month to slow down (a bit) and relax. To appreciate the beauty of creation as it continues to wake from winter and we journey towards Ascension Day, Pentecost, and Trinity Sunday—three beautiful moments in our Christian story, which mean so much to us.
It also a time to give thanks to God for his creation, especially, remembering farmers caring for their lambs and young stock which reminds those of us who are dog owners and walkers, to be responsible. To keep dogs on a lead near fields with any young in it, for that matter with any animals in it, and remember to close gates if we are walking through fields. We are all God’s creatures and as stewards, it’s up to us to look after it.
When we think about these special occasions, it’s good to see things through the eyes of the disciples, meeting Jesus in new ways and remembering his teachings. Our journey starts on the 1st with the Apostles Philip and James, continues to Ascension Day on the 14th (St. George’s, 7pm), Pentecost on the 24th, and the month ends with Trinity Sunday on the 31st. Between these significant events, we remember and reflect on various saints and martyrs. Who said May was quiet?
On Ascension Day, we remember Jesus returning to the Father. It can feel like a moment of departure, even of loss, as the disciples watch him go, still unsure about what is to happen. And yet, it’s also a moment of promise. Jesus does not abandon his followers; instead, he entrusts them—and us—with his work, his mission. It’s a reminder that Christ is not confined to one place, but is present with us always.
Then comes Pentecost, a day full of energy and transformation, 50 days after Easter. We recall the Holy Spirit descending like a rushing wind and tongues of fire, filling the disciples with courage and joy. A day that gave birth to the Christian Church, because it marks the forming of a unified community of believers with a shared mission to spread Jesus’ message. A day when ordinary people, like you and me heard the disciples in their own language. They then found their voices and stepped out in faith. Bringing back memories of the wonderful Whit Walks of the past, when children would get new clothes and shoes, girls usually in white and boys smartly dressed. All of us walking together with a band playing, putting laughter into each step we took, followed by games and refreshments. All of us witnessing a very special day. Pentecost now invites us to ask: where is the Spirit moving in our lives today? How might we be called to speak, serve, or simply listen with renewed openness?
Finally, Trinity Sunday draws us into the mystery of God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Not a puzzle to be solved although many have tried, but it’s a relationship to be experienced. At its heart, the Trinity speaks of love: a God who is community, who invites us into that same life of love, connection, and belonging. Offering peace and hope to all.
Taken together, these celebrations remind us that we are not alone. We are part of a living story – called, equipped, and sustained by God’s presence in us all.
As a church family, May is a wonderful time to reconnect, to worship together, and to notice the small signs of grace around us: in a kind word, a shared prayer, a child’s face or a moment of stillness. Whether you are a regular member or haven’t been for a while, come, bring a friend and introduce yourself to our church family each Sunday or Wednesday morning and know that you will be warmly welcomed.
With every Blessing,
Rev. Christine
St Margaret's Church Prestwich 