Being ‘without portfolio’ means that I am released from the burdens of caring for a parish during these testing times. Many of my friends though, have multiple parishes and truly do care for them in the most trying of times, whilst also caring for family and loved ones of their own. They are weary from the ongoing pandemic, some currently have covid, or are recovering from it, or have loved ones who are ill. Please do pray for your clergy.

In the bleak midwinter as covid did abound, clergy women and men struggled to stay sound,

Follow me in merry measure, Downing Street did say, but t’was not the reverends pleasure more risk assessments to display.

The first covid Noel, these holy saints were strong, collaborating creatively, so that everyone could belong.

Carols sung in carparks, and wrapped warm in Christmas fields, heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and hea-ven and hea- ea-ven and nature sing: much good feeling this did yield.

Live-streams, and YouTube, and prayers in the post, Peace on earth and mercy mild, but negative lat-flows hoped for most.

Each Christmas is a marathon, deacons and priests agree, for lo the days are hastening on, with vicars on bended knee.

As others start their Christmas break, Ye Faithful carry on, fuelled by left over Christingle oranges, to the night when Christ was born.

And still, with hope and longing they prepare for Christmas guests, desperate for festivities with all of their kin, not knowing what’s for the best.

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming, yet the cares and burdens of the year, have left tears quietly gleaming.

These unacknowledged keyworkers are wearied to the core, the extra burdens on their hearts, make them yearn for olden days, happy golden days, of yore.

For ordained saints are not immortal, nor from the plague protected, but still they call us to adore him, Christ the Lord

The stars in the night sky look down where they lay, so please join me to pray, for those who care for you throughout the year, to be blessed with good health and good cheer.