New Year Message from the Pastoral Team

As we get ready to enter another and ‘football less’ (much longer  for some who have been shielding or recovering from time in hospital )2021 we can look forward in a positive way to the restoration of lower league fixtures (even if truncated) that we enjoy.
New Year should be a time to look for the best and how to bring it about rather than a eulogy of the past 2020. Ironically many have to accept that word for last year when there have been so many who have suffered the loss of loved ones and the removal of the normal freedoms of life.
The recent announcement about vaccines to control the devastating coronavirus have supplied hope. In football the ongoing challenges: financial help and generosity from the top, the governance of the beautiful game at all levels, inclusion issues and the- not yet really accepted – potential  head injuries to players must be tackled by the FA, leagues and government.

The accompanying shot from the NHS clinic at Nene Park – now the only significant use of that name – across the the waste land of RDFC Stadium sets a more cheerful tone. It looks south in the direction of the sunny uplands of Higham Ferrers with its splendid Parish Church on the horizon. That has survived and adapted for over 700 years. What are the chances for our national game?!

Thanks to those we have spoken to since the spring lock down. We remain available to listen, chat and help if needed and still have plans for establishing such as a wellbeing cafe when the stadium is fully functional once more as well as with our MIND shirt sponsors. Initially please ring 07864877938 or 01536 669618.
Bruce, Doug, Robin, Zena and Roger
Your chaplains and pastoral support team.
Very best wishes and blessings for the new year