Rev David Warner column: May peace be with you

The Vicar of Mossley talks about ways of greeting people and supporting local businesses in his latest column for us.

On the Sunday after Easter the Gospel reading we hear in church has Jesus appearing to his friends (the disciples) and saying ‘Peace be with you.’ 

It’s something we often say in worship, and usually accompanied by shaking hands and other ways of greeting those around us. 

For months of course, this hasn’t been possible and we’ve found new ways of offering a friendly greeting. 

Not being able to shake hands has been really difficult for many of us - it’s such a good way of saying hello, offering comfort, and let’s hope we can get back to it soon!

On 12th April more restrictions are being eased and we shall be pleased to get back to the shops and other services that will be able to reopen - this has been such a tough time for so many businesses and will continue to be so. 

We need to support all our local businesses as much as we’re able to, remembering that they are the ones who support our local community in the most real and practical ways.

Last week, I was fortunate enough to go and see several friends in their gardens - getting together was wonderful after so long of either not being able to, or only being able to be together virtually. 

After his Resurrection, Jesus appeared again and again to his disciples and others, and when Thomas doubted (as is, to be honest completely understandable) Jesus reassured him by appearing to him. 

As we meet friends and family again, there’s lots to catch up on - sharing our peace, love and presence with those who mean the most to us.

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