click - Parish of Greater Whitbourne

of Greater Whitbourne Page 11Letter from the Bishop of LudlowThis month sees the 10 th anniversaryof the terrorist attackson the Twin Towers of theWorld Trade Centre in NewYork. The term 9.11 is now apart of the global vocabulary.Most of us can rememberwhere we were and what wewere doing on that fatefulday. None of us can deny theshock and horror as wewatched film footage of theimpact of the aircraft and theconsequent collapse of thebuildings. The resultant lossof life was something fewwould have expected in anurban context far removedfrom a conventional war zone.For many families caught upin the events of that day theanniversary will no doubt be adifficult day. Memories will bestirred and emotions onceagain brought to the fore. Solidaritywith those who lostloved ones and rememberingall those who worked withcourage to save others will beimportant.Soon after the events of 9.11the politicians declared waron terrorism. While significantsteps have been taken in theintervening years to reduceterrorism and its threat muchof that focus has been on theremoval of its perpetratorsrather than the circumstancesand injustices that fuel extremism.The sad reality isthat terrorism is still with usand has been throughout thedecade. The recent tragic andviolent events earlier this yearin Norway have once againbrought this home. Those whoperpetrate such crimes mayseek to justify their actions inpolitical or even religious language.There may even attimes be threads of justcauses in their complaints andthe circumstances that bredtheir extremism. However thereality is that terrorism is ultimatelyan expression of ananger that leads to hate and adisrespect, even disregard, ofhuman life.Perhaps therefore this monthis a good time to reflect againon the meaning of love. Loveis a much used but often devaluedword. Jesus had muchto say about true love. He toldPeter to put away the swordwith the warning that thosewho live by the sword will dieby the sword. He encouragedin his teaching the forgiving ofour enemies and a blessing ofthose who persecute us. Jesuswas clear that true love of Godis reflected and authenticatedin our loving our neighboursas ourselves. When asked asto who is our neighbour heimplied everyone. His was alove that didn‘t take but insteadgave up his life for others.Bishop Alistair MagowanBishop of LudlowBARBEQUE AT WINLEY FARM, TEDSTONEDELAMAREHosted by William and Nancy NorthSaturday 24 th September at 6.30 pmBring and buy, raffle, croquet, tennis(bring your own racquet) and clock golf.All welcome. Tickets (£9.00, under 14s free) to include food and first twodrinks from Kathleen Harris (01885 483681) or William and Nancy North(01886 853321)