22 April

Dear Friends,

It may seem presumptuous to address you this way when we have not even laid eyes on each other, and yet I hope and trust that we may proceed on the basis that that is what we shall become. I arrived in Amsterdam late Tuesday afternoon, to be met and welcomed by Russell and then, on reaching the Manse, by Margaret and also by Sies. I am very grateful that our time overlapped as I have benefited hugely from their kindness and transfer of information. As writers often say, any misunderstanding or any failing to have grasped what may be required of me is entirely my fault and not Russell’s!

I thank you for agreeing to my being with you and attempting to serve the congregation as locum minister, and can only assure you that I will try to do my best. It is a few years since I retired from active parish ministry, during which I have carried out somewhat less demanding voluntary work, and so ask for your patience and understanding as I strive to “get up to speed” again.

My grandchildren have received a good deal of attention, on the other hand, though I doubt you will welcome the fruits of those endeavours. I look forward to meeting and getting to know as many of you as possible in the weeks to come.

Yours,

Fiona Lillie
ERC Locum Minister