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Volume 20 - 23 June, 2015 Dear Parents & Students Yesterday with the Winter Solstice we experienced our shortest day of the year. From this point in time onwards we see a gradual lengthening of our days and the ‘return of the sun’. But let us not miss this remaining glorious opportunity of winter to rest, stand still, reflect and ponder the seeds within us yet awaiting growth.
“Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle . . . a seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl. And the anticipation nurtures our dream.” (Barbara Winkler)
There is a winter in all of our lives,
Then winter, cold and bare as nature takes stock
a chill and darkness that makes us yearn
rests, unwinds, sleeps until the time is right.
for days that have gone
An endless cycle
or put our hope in days yet to be.
and yet a perfect model.
Father God, you created seasons for a purpose.
We need a winter in our lives.
Spring is full of expectation
A time of rest, a time to stand still.
buds breaking
A time to reacquaint ourselves
frosts abating and an awakening
with the faith in which we live and breathe.
of creation before the first days of summer.
It is only then that we can draw strength
Now the sun gives warmth
from the one in whom we are rooted,
and comfort to our lives
take time to grow and rise through the darkness
reviving aching joints
into the warm glow of your springtime,
bringing colour, new life
to blossom and flourish,
and crops to fruiting.
bring colour and vitality into this world,
Autumn gives nature space
your garden.
to lean back, relax and enjoy the fruits of its labour
Thank you Father
mellow colours in sky and landscape
for the seasons of our lives.
as the earth prepares to rest.
(John Birch – www.faithandowrship.com )
Justice
Freedom
VERITY
Sincerity
Felicity