Deep Peace

Saturday 29 July

It is well with my soul.

Last night, on Martyrs Bay beach, I reaffirmed my baptismal vows in the presence of God and a few dozen Iona vollies and residents. People loved and were touched by the service—it was a collection of songs, vows, prayers, and symbolic actions (including an invitation for people to collect handfuls of water from the sea and pour it into a glass bowl, from which Richard, the leader, anointed me). So many people have told me how much they enjoyed the service (even loved it) and how much they were honoured by the chance to be present at it. Rosie played clarinet, Simon played guitar, Richard presided, Lauren read Romans 8:31-39, and Sam wrote and said a prayer.

Directly afterwards was Mary III’s creation service, during which I helped sing with her and Mary ("Come Light, Light of God") and an "evening came, morning came" motif)—her service turned out to be brilliant.

Today we welcomed over 200 members for Community Week, and kicked off their time here with a welcoming service, complete with Lauren leading "Igama Le(k)unkosi."
At the end of tonight’s service, Simon sang his "Deep Peace," during which I began to cry (thinking again about leaving, and Simon’s voice is so incredible and emotive). Mary, Sam, Simon, and others hugged me in the cloisters, and the former two held arms around me as we walked down to Cul Shuna to hang out for the night. Later, Sam walked me back to the Mac, and we had a good chat. Mary had said earlier that Sam told her I was one of his best friends here. I can’t believe how incredibly lucky I am to have such fantastic friends, including these two, Lauren, and the recently departed (through the life-giving death that lies in returning home) Moses.

Sam and I agreed: life is strange and wonderful, and it’s a privilege to be living it. And all is well.