The 7 Year Itch is a psychological theory that happiness in a relationship starts to go downhill after seven years. The theory is that after 7 years, enough time has gone past that a couple who know each other’s foibles and failings don’t have the energy to bear with them any longer. They start to wonder if the relationship they are in is worth it and whether the grass is greener elsewhere. Perhaps the excitement of the first few years has worn off and only the mundane remains and they are tempted to look for something new. Whatever the case, some approach 7 year anniversaries with fear.
Friday 31st March marked 7 years for me as Senior Minister of Campbelltown Anglican Church. So what now?
I don’t feel particularly itchy, but I have been reflecting on the first week I spent in the Parish and how overwhelming it was meeting 100s of people and getting my head around how things worked. Jan Tripodi gave me more keys than I could have ever imagined. Trevor Richardson explained how the 8am service was done. Leanne and I spent lots of valuable time together talking, thinking and praying.
At the induction I made the observation that the stained glass windows in St Peter’s had four panels that reflect the work of a church and its minister. Luke 4:18 has Jesus explaining that he was sent to proclaim the Gospel and the arrival of the Messiah to all who would listen. Luke 22:19 has Jesus sharing the Lord’s Supper with those who loved him. Mark 10:14 has Jesus encouraging ministry to young people so they too can experience Kingdom blessings. James 1:27 urges the church to care for the vulnerable and marginalised and to pursue purity.
I hope it might be said that in the last 7 years we have had a good go at all these things. You know my foibles and failings (and from time to time people remind me of them) but I think I can honestly say that there has never been a day when I have not prayerfully sought to do the best I could with the resources I have for you (the church) and our local community.
I am very thankful to God for calling us to be here in Campbelltown and as I said at the AGM, I have no plans or intentions to go anywhere anytime soon.
So where are we heading and what are we doing over the next 7 years?
I hope we might together be a church that proclaims the good news of salvation in Word and sacrament; that encourages young and old to become members of the Kingdom of God; and that cares for people while pursuing godliness. I hope we might be a growing Christian community, devoted to maturing in Jesus for the Glory of God.
Will you pray with me for these things?