The Godfather

Today the family Tomlinson are travelling to the Suffolk coast to catch up with friends, Simon and Georgette (the parents) and Nathaniel and Benedict (the boys). It is always a pleasure to do so – especially as I am Godfather to Nathaniel and Hayley is Godmother to Benedict. Being a Godparent is an honoured Christian duty- thus I always try to pray for the boys during the offices and in my private devotions. A thought for those who are Godparents- could we do more? Could we think of other ways, besides prayer, to inspire and help those whom we have promised to nurture in the Faith? Ideas greatfully welcome!

Were Hollywood to make a film of the divides and frictions within the Anglican Church (heaven forbid, it would be very dull) they might find this particular friendship fascinating. For where I am passionately Anglican and unashamedly Catholic (to quote a certain blog!), Simon, is passionately Anglican and unashemedly liberal. In all else we have mirrored lives: we were vicar’s sons in near neighbouring parishes in Norfolk, we attended the same school and same youth group, we both taught prior to ordination and both got through the selection process within 12 months….and of course we are both handsome, witty and profoudly talented!!! He like me is a clergyman within the Church of England. So how does the friendship cope with us facing each other on differing sides of the looming schisms and divides?

Well at times we have both felt a bit hurt and angry (especially after too many glasses of wine and late at night!!) but the good news for us, and perhaps a glimmer of hope for the Church in general, is found in the fact that our freindship and love have always triumphed over any theological differences. So what can we make of this for reflection today?

Firstly there is sometimes more that unites us with those who hurt us than is immediately evident on the surface. This ‘common ground’ must be looked for by people on both sides.

Secondly there is room within the fold for both of us and (I believe) niether of us wants the other to suffer. But would this be true if we did not care for each other due to a long standing friendship? I doubt it! So perhaps my Catholic cronies, as hurt as we are at present, we must resist the urge to withdraw from commmittees and synods up and down the land. Instead we need to get out there building bridges, befriending those with whom we disagree. Why? Because good relationships bring about generosity and grace to overcome suspicion and ignorance on all sides. Even when we feel marginalised and threatened- our Christian duty remains the same. To be an Easter people with Alleluia as our song. Let us never forget that and let us always seek to love, not just those who care for us, but also those who hate us. It is not just noble – it is scriptural. …now to a few pints with Simon!!