A Message from School Chaplain, Rev Helen after Storm Goretti

This was one of many trees that fell victim to Storm Goretti last night.  Thankfully, no one was harmed when this tree bowed down and blocked one of the roads in/out of the hospital for a while. As the storm approached, we were all encouraged to stay inside and keep as safe as we could.

I stayed over in Helston at the hospital there and, as the winds raged outside and power went on and off, I marvelled at the continued care shown by the staff and how, together, they weathered the storm, putting the needs of their patients first at all times.  

This morning, there continued to be more disruption for many across the county, and I hope wherever you find yourselves today, you and your loved ones are safe, and any damage from the storm where you are has not caused irreparable harm.  

Near Helston is one of our treasured coastal communities – Porthleven – where trees fell down blocking main roads in/out til a local mechanic was able to go and clear the road in the middle of the night. 

At these times, I am reminded of the amazing courage and compassion shown by many in our community for the good of others. My thoughts  are with all working on the front line at this time – often the unsung heroes and heroines who just get on with doing what needs to be done: from clearing roads to caring for the most vulnerable to reconnecting essential services and rebuilding homes in our communities.  

600 years ago, Julian of Norwich was inspired amidst challenging times to write the comforting words –  ‘all shall be well’ – uplifting words of hope my mother often shared with me down the years. 

All shall be well assures us we can weather the storms when they come, so please hold onto that assurance and take care in the days ahead as rebuilding and reconnecting continue across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.   

Our county may have had a rough night, but the Cornish spirit seems to be very much alive and at work as we continue to support one another and do all we can in all the ways we can for all the people we can.  If we keep doing that, I really do believe indeed that ‘all shall be well.’ 

Blessings to you and your loved ones 

Rev Helen