I was brought up in Seaside what is the oldest area of Llanelli and its long and maritime history has always held a lasting fascination for me. One part of Seaside, now long gone consisted of two rows of lime painted cottages, one room up and one down known as Custom House Bank. Harry Davies in his ‘Looking around Llanelli’ tells of all the women of the bank staying up all night if a baby was due; and a death on the bank meant that neighbours rallied around and lent their best crockery and furniture and ensured new mats and even painting walls for the funeral. Like many other communities there was a natural care and neighbourliness which was part of life and a sense of responsibility which families had for each other.
Forty days after Easter we celebrate the festival of Pentecost when the community of the church was born. By following his example those who believed in Jesus loved and cared for each other to such an extent that in Antioch their fellow citizens exclaimed ‘See how these Christians love one another!’ That love overflowed into a dark and often hostile world and many to this day have come to faith in Jesus by the experience of God’s love being shared through this community which is the church.
That community continues to grow! In China, Asia and especially Africa especially there are increasing numbers coming to faith and joining the church. Here is Wales there has been a marked decline in church attendance in recent generations but there remain in many churches and chapels those who seek to follow the ways of Jesus and there are many signs of encouragement as we seek to work together for the coming of the kingdom of God.
When Jesus taught us to love our neighbour, he broke down the accepted barriers of his and every age. Our neighbour is any and everyone who is in need and because of His love we do not have the option of passing by on the other side. That’s why the work and witness of the church is of such importance today – we are called to show that same love and compassion. As we celebrate this new community we too must always seek the good of each another and share the amazing love that God has for our broken world! The true blessing and joy of belonging to His church – the community of God’s people. Welcome!
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