Over the last few weeks and indeed the past twelve months, Canowindra and surrounding districts have been through difficult and trying times. I’ve been asked how we can help each other in our grief and loss.
If you don’t know what to say, then it is best to say nothing. Just be with each other and listen. It’s amazing how valuable it is to be heard. Don’t be afraid to say that you’re grieving; there is great strength in vulnerability.
If you’re hurting, please tell someone. Find somebody you can trust – a family member, a friend, or a professional, and speak out. Lifeline, Beyondblue, the Community Health Centre and the Church leaders in this community can assist with support and pastoral care.
In the time I’ve lived in Canowindra, I’ve observed a community that excels in support for one another and I’ve benefitted from that loving support myself.
It was an awe-inspiring privilege to participate in the Balloon tribute to Stephanie Scott early last Sunday morning; a moving way to show support for each other when we have felt helpless to do anything at all.
The balloonists themselves wanted to do something, to contribute towards Canowindra, a town that they have come to love. This is what Canowindra inspires people to do. I prayed that our prayers for each other would rise as the balloons rose into the sky. People from around the world are thinking of us and supporting us in prayer.
Canowindra is a strong community. We will come through this, because we naturally support and care for each other.
May you be blessed to be a blessing to one another.
Revd Jono Williams
