There is in the penultimate programme in the Poirot finale series the following line of dialogue which is actually a quote from Goethe:

‘The threshold is the place to pause’

It strikes me as being rather pertinent for today and our AGM meeting, coming as it does near the end of one Christian Year and the beginning of the next. These words encourage us to stop, pause and reflect, for a moment before continuing.

An AGM is about taking stock of the past year; giving thanks to God for blessings received and beginning the planning for year ahead and the challenges it might bring.

We at the Good Shepherd have much to be thankful for, a congregation continuing to grow in spirit, fellowship and numbers; balanced accounts and a vision for mission and ministry that drives us to continually reach out to God’s people in this bit of God’s Kingdom.

Today, however, it is necessary to pause. We are on the threshold of a new year and a re-commitment to the work of God in this place and as such it is right to be still and to pray. So let us do just that, let us remain still and pray for the past, the present and the future with a sense of thanksgiving and hopefulness.

The full quote from Goethe is:

"Beginnings are always delightful; the threshold is the place to pause."

When heard in full I think it can help us look to the present and the future with hope. This coming Church Year is a new beginning, another re-start.

Let us look forward to what will come our way Let us rise to our challenges and let us pray that we will cope with both the successes and disappointments we will meet. But, in all things let us all commit ourselves to the work of the Kingdom of God and the service of God’s people.