Simon Marsh

FEW THINGS GLADDEN THE  HEART of a parish priest like a Church full of enthusiastic Scouts, Guides, Cubs and Brownies. Scouting celebrates its Centenary this year and there’s loads of info’ to cheer your heart at http://www.scouts.org.uk

4th Bramhall Explorer Scouts delivered a fun Centenary presentation to a “packed house” at our 9am Eucharist today. Those arriving for the succeeding 10.45am celebration were caught up in the good cheer of a tidal-wave of folk heading for coffee and home. I love the sight of these “traffic jams” of people on Sunday mornings. And I love the sight of the faithful band of helpers - most of them already busy with work and their own family lives - who make Scouting happen. Without them the world would be missing out on SO much. Those who lead our 160+ Scouts, and the Guides, and other Youth activities, remind me today of the aged Simeon and his friend Anna, Luke 2.22-40, whose prayer-life enabled them to recognise in the infant Jesus a bright hope for the nations. Those who are encouraging the Scouts, Guides and young people I met again this morning are reaping great reward … they’re helping to shape the lives of some of the nicest folk you could meet … and thereby shaping the future of our community, God love ‘em!  And the gift and cheers given to Reader Pam Smith, retiring (and moving house) after 40+ years of devoted work with our young people,  was heart-warming evidence that the work is wholly appreciated.