That’ll do nicely, Stephen

Saturday mornings used to be all about watching Tiswas or Swap Shop in your pyjamas, while your mum wrote her shopping list and your dad did his pools coupon. Now we’re all a bit older, and the telly is full of rubbish, the next best thing is the Momentum breakfast!
And so it was that this morning, 40 men swarmed on Parkside Church in LA (Little’Ampton) for a full English, a good old natter with a few pals, and to listen to a talk from Rev Stephen Hudson, Vicar of All Saints Wick. What an astonishing speech it was, as Stephen shared his personal story of how he progressed from a career with American Express to a ministry in the Church of England.
We heard how he never used to believe in God. Then in the wee hours, and in sheer desperation, he tried asking the Almighty for a bit of advice. As he sat there in his dressing gown and slippers, Stephen got a little more than that. Suddenly the room became brighter than a floodlit football match, as a supernatural presence collided with Stephen’s world. God 1, Atheists 0.
An extraordinary journey led him into the priesthood, and he found a new strength to cope with life’s challenges. It was a very refreshing and inspiring talk. Although Stephen apologised for the time he took, few of us really noticed the minutes drifting away.
We also plugged the next Momentum event, which is a one-day retreat at The Poor Clares monastic community in Arundel on 3rd March. A programme of reflection will be led by Rev John McGrath, an Anglican priest and specialist in Monastic Studies. If you’d like to come, RSVP to info@la-momentum.org or text to Andy, on 07752-921996. Please note – first come, first served, as space is limited at the venue.
And thanks to Parkside’s resident chefs for their hospitality and catering skills! We couldn’t have done the breakfast without you. (Photo of the unsung heroes: Clive Price)