Colourful Dreamer

Part Three Bright and early, Tim and I set off for Bangor, and the trains back down to London. Once in London we met up with John Wotherspon from the TSSF Central Fund. I met John about 7 years ago, when he was in NZ with his wife. They came to St Georges for church on Christmas Day. Over the last few years we have been talking regularly and emailing, but it was good to meet up in person. We then found where the Central Fund meeting was to be held. It was a pretty standard meeting, but it was good to be together in the same room. The last time was four years ago. I was supposed to come over for one in 2020, and strangely that did not happen. Once the meeting was finished Bishop Martyn returned to the other bishops at Lambeth, and the others scampered off to their trains, and I checked in into Premier Inn Euston. And is was time for some more shopping. At least that was the plan. I could not find linen trousers anywhere. So much for that plan. But it was fun getting lost on the undergro...

I was a little worried abut the flight over, being in a full plane all masked. But so far so good. Lets face it, having access to the lounges makes flying much more pleasant. I got to watch some good movies, got some sleep, and read some of Hirini’s book, and my dragon book. And Heathrow was a breeze really. It took a while to get through the e-gate, but not too long. And my bag awaited me on the luggage thingy. I had arrived with my bag. What more could I want? I have had 2 and a bit days to enjoy London. Saturday I cleaned up and chatted with Sr. Sue, then had a wee nap. Later in the day I ambled down to Black Friars Bridge, and walked along Southbank towards London Bridge, and then back the other way towards Westminster Bridge, supping on a cup or two of nice lagers and enjoying the vibe. I went over the bridge to see the Houses of Parliament, which are now uncovered and gleaming. And through the deserted streets around the back of the Abbey crossing Lambeth bridge and ambling back ...

I will not be posting reflections on te readings for the coming Sunday, or a sermon, for the next few weeks. I am off to the UK to enjoy sweltering heat waves and how to not deal with Covid. And I am there for a number of Franciscan obligations including meeting with some of the bishops at the Lambeth conference. And I am spending some time in North Wales, if the trains let me get there. If all goes to plan I will offer reflections about what I am in the UK for and life on the other side. Or I might not.  We shall see.  If you could keep me in your prayers. And if you want you could pray for Lambeth as well.