A Night on the Town
Seen the weather forecast tonight? Clear skies and temperature around 4 degrees, heavy rain about 0300, and a 12 mph wind keeping things cooler. Why would anyone be interested in a weather forecast from 2200 – 0630? A night on the town beckons!
Bishop Stephen, John and I are spending a second year supporting the work of Alabaré, the Christian care support for homeless and disadvantaged people. We’ll be sleeping in the cloisters of Salisbury Cathedral – not exactly luxury accommodation, with cardboard, bedrolls, and sleeping bags. But we will be with hundreds [hopefully non-snorers!] of others who will join in this fundraising and attention seeking action.
For us, it will be a token gesture of solidarity for those who find themselves without shelter, food and support. For many reasons, people lose security, stability, friends and family, and when there is no place to go, outdoors is the only choice. Last year, apparently I slipped into a deep sleep about 30 secs after lights out, and woke around 0600, hungry for my breakfast. Tomorrow, I will rise again, and will head home for a shower, and a cooked breakfast. For those who have no choice but to do this every night, there are few luxuries like that to look forward to.
Think about us, when you are tucked up under your duvet, pray for those who are unlikely to find safety and hospitality this night, and then act, by putting something of what you have plenty of into the hands of those who have not. Food, finance, and an hour of your time will be welcomed by the staff of Alabaré. See their website at http://www.alabare.co.uk/
