Dear Friends,

We at 19 Kingschase Drive have been watching the scenes from the United Kingdom over the last seven days and have found them instructive but difficult to interpret. The United Kingdom must be the only country on earth in which such scenes could arise. We know that they signify a tremendous respect and affection for the late sovereign. But what do they actually mean for the future constitution of Britain, her territories and the Commonwealth? Do they, in fact, indicate anything about future expectations? Nevertheless, the crowds in lines and we at home with our televisions are appreciating the events now and will have to allow the future to unfold within the providence of God.

It is, I suppose too, something of a relief from the Ukraine war, from the rising prices and perhaps from the even more serious “war" in the United States that is pitting people against one another politically and giving birth to revolutionary chaos not unlike what history has seen in other places without a good monarchy or something that is approximately equivalent to one.

The Collect for the Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity is

Almighty and everlasting God, give unto us the increase of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain that which thou dost promise, make us to love that which thou dost command; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A prayer for the times, it does appear. In whatever outward circumstances we may seem to be, we “may obtain that which thou dost promise” so long as God grants us the grace to “love that which thou dost command”. Such a spiritual and mental condition is connected with the divine spiritual gift to us of “the increase of faith, hope and charity”. Every true gift of God to us is connected with and derived from the divine rather than the human perspective on what is actually good.

Going back to the beginning of last week's letter for a moment: we certainly do need to keep a close watch on the storm “Fiona” as it makes its way through to the Greater Antilles. It was predicted to turn somewhat to the north before it got to Jamaica or here, but as we know very well weather predictions are not necessarily fulfilled.

For directions about the services this Sunday the 18th September 2022, the 14th Sunday after Trinity, please see the website www.TruthWithLanguage.com .

In faith in the holy Name of our Lord Jesus, who will continue to provide guidance and joy by the Holy Spirit to all His people.

+ Nicholas