As we gather to reflect on the events of the past year, we are reminded of the resilience and adaptability of our faith community. Despite challenges, worship remains the cornerstone of our ministry, both in person and online. Here are some of the highlights and developments of the past year.
Worship and Community Engagement:
Worship continues to be the heartbeat of our chaplaincy, offering solace and inspiration to all who join us. In addition to our regular Sunday services, we came together to honour significant occasions such as Remembrance Day, celebrating at the Isla del Rey and in Santa Margarita. We also commemorated the Coronation of King Charles III with reverence and joy.
The resumption of Summer worship at Cala’n Bosc in 2023 marked a return to normalcy after the disruptions of the pandemic, reaffirming our commitment to extended communal worship and fellowship.
Leadership and Transitions:
We were honoured by the pastoral visit of Bishop David and his wife Colleen, who graced us with their presence during the Santa Margarita fiesta. As Bishop David prepares for retirement, our diocese braces for a period of transition, acknowledging his profound impact on our community.
Christian Formation and Outreach:
Our journey of Christian formation was enriched by the Lent study group, guided by the wisdom of retired Bishop Michael Marshall. Through his work, we delved deeper into our faith, finding fulfilment and enlightenment.
Wedding Blessings remain a cornerstone of our ministry, allowing us to extend our love and support to those outside our regular congregation. Furthermore, our commitment to serving the less fortunate through initiatives like our food bank and Christmas meal vouchers continues unabated, demonstrating our dedication to embodying Christ’s love in tangible ways.
Towards this end, the Chaplaincy Council has approved the following Giving Policy:
Santa Margarita is a mission church, reaching out to the local community and wider afield to share the love of Jesus. The Chaplaincy of Santa Margarita is committed in faith, hope and love to donate 5% of its net income (after paying diocesan and archdeaconry dues) to organisations outside the church. At the beginning of each financial year, the Chaplaincy Council will select two main organisations, one of which operates within Menorca, and one of which serves beyond the island,(normally charities of some sort) to be recipients of, for example, a portion of the proceeds from fund-raising activities (such as the golf tournament) as the year progresses. At the end of each year, the Chaplaincy Council will decide, at its discretion, to offer funds to the same or additional recipients to meet the 5% target. The chaplain and wardens, together with the Chaplaincy council, will have the discretion to disburse additional funds during the year where immediate or urgent need arises.
Community Engagement and Collaborations:
We were privileged to host one of the biannual clergy gatherings for the deanery of Northern Spain and the Balearics, fostering connections and collaborations within our wider community. This gathering bore fruit in the planning of a retreat in Barcelona, promising spiritual renewal and fellowship. The role of Area Dean does impose some requirements beyond the chaplaincy in Menorca, which has offered an opportunity to welcome the Archdeacon, Ven. David Waller, and the Area Dean of Southern Spain, Rev. Louis Darrant as visiting preachers. And we continue to be blessed by friendly and supportive relationships with the local Roman Catholic church and diocese, as demonstrated in the ecumenical worship in January and the open availability of other churches for wedding blessings and funerals.
Technological Advancements and Environmental Stewardship:
Our digital presence is about to receive a significant overhaul with the substantial redesign of our church website. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility and engagement, reflecting our commitment to embracing technological advancements for the greater good.
While we anticipated architectural modifications within the church, to allow access to the balcony and organ, and the installation of solar panels to further our environmental stewardship, these endeavours have been met with delays. Nevertheless, we remain steadfast in our commitment to sustainability and will continue to explore avenues for reducing our ecological footprint.
Challenges and Adaptations:
Despite the challenges posed by declining attendance, particularly attributed to factors such as age, health, and Brexit, we find solace in the sustained engagement of holidaymakers and online attendees. Our community is evolving, prompting us to adapt our methods of communication and engagement to meet the changing needs of our community of faith.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of faith and community, we are humbled and grateful for the opportunity to serve this island and its extended community of faith. Together, let us continue to embody the love and compassion of Christ, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and renewal.
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