IT is the start of a new academic year, this may bring a variety of emotions for a host of different reasons.  

Little ones starting school for the first time; are they anxious or excited, parents are they worried or ecstatic?  

Moving on to senior education or starting University, transport, money, friendship issues, all things that are very real and matter.  

Teachers returning to work, facing real challenges, a new school, fresh responsibilities, tight budgets.  

Grandparents may feel relief as children return to school, allowing breathing space once more.  

Whatever the situation, Jesus offers to be alongside us, celebrating with us in our joys, comforting or leading us when anxious or afraid.  

The Bible is full of emotion, both good and bad.  

Jesus said to his disciples: “I am with you always, even until the end of the age.”  

You can read about this in the Gospel of St Matthew, it is not some fantasy story, but a historical fact.  

His disciples were an unlikely bunch, yet against all the odds, proclaimed this message, encouraging others down through the centuries, giving hope to millions of people day-by-day, no matter what their emotions or circumstances. Do get in touch if you would like to know more.  

Email Rev Sandra Collier at: [email protected] .

Rev Sandra Collier