Dearest beloved in Christ
I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to you all for the beautiful and generous send‑off you organised for me last Sunday. I was truly overwhelmed by the depth of love, kindness, and emotion that surrounded that moment. Your warmth touched me deeply, and I carry it with me as a precious gift.
Thank you also for the generous gift you presented to me. I receive it with sincere appreciation and with a grateful heart. As St Paul writes, “I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you” (Philippians 1:3–4). Be assured that you remain very close to my heart and always present in my prayers.
Though we may now be separated by distance, nothing can diminish the bond we share in Christ. As the Apostle reminds us, “Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39). Distance cannot undo the grace we have shared, nor the love that has grown among us as one family of faith.
I entrust each one of you to the loving intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. May she, our Mother, keep you under her gentle protection and lead you ever closer to her Son.
With my affection, gratitude, and prayers,
Canon Benedict