Carol's
Ordination as Deacon took place at Guildford Cathedral on
29th June.
‘God’
writes Gerard Hughes,’ is a God of Surprises.’
Absolutely! Throughout my life I have never ceased to be
amazed at the mysterious ways in which God can work in each
one of us making opportunities and different paths open
in ways we never thought possible. Before studying theology
at University College, North Wales, Bangor, I travelled
to Israel where I worked for 6 months on a kibbutz, working
with a wide variety of people and faiths. During my years
of study I have also travelled through Europe, Egypt, Turkey,
India, and Nepal. I am excited to read about your link with
Nepal. From my visit I was struck particularly by the children
and their dedication to attend a school no matter how far
they had to walk!
Music
has always played an important part in my life, and I am
fortunate to have had the background of a musical family
to inspire me in many performances, which I have played,
sung in and directed. In 1992 I married a musician, Martin,
who also is a lecturer in higher education in music technology
and composition.
During
my teaching career I have taught in different comprehensive
schools acting as Head of Music and Head of RE. Combining
this with the needs of a family has always been demanding
but tight planning and supportive relatives have made my
work possible. I have always shown energy and enthusiasm
for projects which have been achieved from a desire to bring
out the best in individuals. I have tried to empower people
with confidence to have a go and realise their own talents.
A recent role has been my coordination of the music at Leatherhead
Parish Church where I have also been a Reader since 1986.
I believe talents are God given and that everyone can aspire
to reach the full person God has planned for them. It has
partly been due to this church involvement that led me to
reassess my vocation and seek full time ministry. I have
just completed two years training at Ripon College, Cuddesdon,
gaining a graduate diploma in ministerial training.
As
I have been preparing to be part of the faith community
in Horsell I have been reading some of your past magazines,
and I have felt moved to see the many obvious and sometimes
hidden ways in which we all respond to the God who calls.
Whether it is running the Friday coffee morning, toddlers,
supporting the work in Nepal or helping to run the Summer
club we all have a part to play in God's purpose for the
community.
As
a Deacon I am called to serve the Church of God and the
charge emphasizes care, the deep care we are to show one
another as we follow the example of the One who is all compassion.
The words of the late Archbishop Michael Ramsey stay with
me:
"it
is to be with God with the people on our heart."
I
look forward to my ministry with Rod Jones and the parish
of Horsell in anticipation that I will get to know you all,
hear your stories, your sorrows and your joys.
God
has something unique to say through each of us, and the
God 'who is able to do abundantly more than we ask or think’
will no doubt surprise me in the many visits, services,
school links, and community involvements of which I hope
to be a part!
Carol
Coslett
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