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Dear friends,

Happy New Year!

Looking back on 2024, I feel so grateful for the many joyful moments it brought. This year, I visited Asia for the first time, reconnected with friends I hadn’t seen in decades (somehow, they ended up visiting Vancouver!), and experienced the incredible joy of getting married. Being surrounded by the love and support of those who celebrated with us, both near and far, was a blessing. I also became a Canadian citizen and began my role as Rector of St Laurence—a year full of milestones!

But not everything has been easy. Some close to me have faced serious illnesses, and others passed away, often unexpectedly. Life has a way of weaving together joy and sorrow, and as I shared on Sunday, part of our calling is to learn to hold both together—and to do it well.

In just a month at St Laurence, I’ve already seen and felt the incredible love that flows through this community. It’s a church where love is not just spoken about but lived out in so many ways, big and small. I want to thank everyone who has contributed to the life and ministry of St Laurence over the past year. Your faithfulness, care, and generosity are inspiring, and I am so grateful for all you have done and do. I am excited about what lies ahead as we journey together!

As we step into 2025, I’ve been reflecting on a verse from Paul’s letter to the Philippians: “And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight” (Philippians 1:9).

I love how The Message puts it: “So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well.” (emphasis added by me)

Flourishing is a word I often return to because I believe it’s what God desires for us all. True flourishing happens when we love deeply and love well—God, others, and ourselves. So, as we begin a new year, my prayer for you is simple: may your love continue to flourish. May you love much, and may you love well.

Every blessing for the year ahead,

Philip