Archdeacon Rachel Mann has shared an update as she recovers in hospital following major surgery. We continue to hold Rachel in our thoughts and prayers, wishing her strength and a smooth recovery.
Dear friends and colleagues,
Now that I’m through the initial stages of post-surgery recovery, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the way in which I’ve been held in prayer and affection across the Diocese over the past couple of weeks. When I’ve had bad, painful and frustrating days (and I’ve had many!) your prayers have been my stay and friend. When my prayer has been feeble I’ve taken such strength from the constancy of yours. Never underestimate the power of prayer!
I have a long way to go yet in terms of my recovery but I do hope to be home sooner rather than later. In the very least, I can, now, see the path ahead opening up. While my recovery will take time, I now feel confident that it won’t be forever before I can share fully in the life of our wonderful diocese again soon. Visiting is still by arrangement through Revd Canon Anne Edwards at bishopschaplain@manchester.anglican.org
Being in hospital during Holy Week is quite a revelation (albeit one that no one should seek out!). I’ve witnessed God being so active in service and love and grace, but I have also been reminded that Jesus came among us as the suffering servant who calls us into the fullness of life. Please pray for my fellow patients and all the staff, most especially that Jesus, the one who is unafraid of wounds and meets us in our distress and in our hope, will be with those facing the worst of days and the end of life. Equally, my prayer for us all is this: that during this Holy Week and at Easter (when it comes) we may all know God’s new life and reconciling love.
A Happy Easter, when it comes…
Rachel