On the pilgrim way ‘It was not at all like a funeral service’

29/11/2021 | Reform

Sheila Maxey remembers saints

Growing up in Scotland I loved Hallowe’en: the turnip lanterns (much harder to make than pumpkin ones), the ‘dooking’ for apples and other silly games. But All Saints Day completely passed me by then – and … Read More

On the pilgrim way: ‘I am haunted by gloomy hymns’

02/11/2021 | Reform

Perhaps it is the time of year, but I am haunted by gloomy lines from hymns. ‘Change and decay in all around I see’ keeps coming to mind. The lawn is covered with fallen leaves. So much dead-heading is needed … Read More

On the pilgrim way ‘I worry about crossing my bridges too soon’

24/09/2021 | Reform 1

Sheila Maxey on the challenge of living in the present

I am in a bit of a turmoil, trying to live fully in the present and at the same time worrying that I should be looking to the future.

When … Read More

On the pilgrim way ‘We were literally outside our comfort zone’

31/08/2021 | Reform

Sheila Maxey stretches her comfort zone

In June we spent two glorious weeks in a self-catering cottage in Mallaig – boat trips to islands, amazing views of mountains. There were no easy chairs and the two sofas were uncomfortable. We … Read More

On the pilgrim way: ‘It feels as if our church is dying’

29/06/2021 | Reform

Sheila Maxey sees a grim future for church and high street

Our high street seems to be dying, with shops closing or just not reopening after the pandemic. Maplin closed before Covid, but Laura Ashley, Edinburgh Wool, Fat Face, Dorothy … Read More

On the pilgrim way: ‘I picture myself on the sidelines’

23/06/2021 | Reform

Sheila Maxey focuses on the edge of things

When I am feeling old and tired, I find myself wanting to opt out. Perhaps it is alright now to leave the main action – future of the church, the needs of … Read More