The days are getting longer, the air warmer, the sun brighter. As we see the wonder of God’s creation bursting forth, the trees breaking out in leaf, flowers opening, bees buzzing and the birds singing, everything seems so very positive.

As I write this, however, I am also conscious of the doubts and fears that surround us at this time. 

Milverton Parish Church is displaying a Quilt Exhibition until April 9, ’Threads Of Survival’, which is showing a set of 20-plus quilts stitched during the pandemic, celebrating the NHS, and drawing attention to some of the frustrations also expressed during the past two years.

But it is not over yetâ¦the NHS faces a lot of challenges to come and continues to need our support. Whether you like needlework, love art, feel political or want to be reminded about how we have pulled together over the past two years, do come along and see how others have expressed themselves. It is free and open every day from noon-4pm.

We cannot, nor should we not, ignore the conflict in Europe between Russian leaders and the people of Ukraine. At the worst of times, we also see people at their best. We have seen people suffering, filled with fear, with nothing but what they stand in - and then we see others rushing to their aid, with equipment, creature comforts, medical equipment, food and water and offers of hospitality along with the generous donations to the DEC which have been phenomenal. 

Where is God in all this? This is often a cry from those moved by these events.  

God is in the wonder of this planet, God is with those who suffer, God is with those who make their voices heard, God is with those who silently pray, God is with those endeavouring to help. God is with us in the midst of all our doubts and fears.

As we travel through this season of Lent we are preparing for Easter, which is a time when we reflect on Jesus’s suffering, dying, and coming to life, new life, as a message of hope for us all, and for all those struggling at this time. May Christ bring us all hope, comfort and peace.

Helene stainer