Ainstable's Church Porch

Aintstable’s St Michael’s Church, Cumbria, was locked when we called, sadly. It was only nineteenth-century so no major loss by not entering, and the views from there were still fine. Thankfully, the church porch was left open. A curious sign on one of the doors explained that the porch is there for shelter, but would those who use it please leave it in a suitable state for others who also wish to shelter?

My mind speculated about the various unwelcome states in which the less-considerate seekers of shelter had left that porch. Sweet wrappers on the floor? Camp fires in the corner? Enough to warrant the making of a sign, that’s for sure.

The point made has a general application, too. Whatever comfort, strength, support and pleasure that membership of a local church gives, may we also seek to ensure it is there for a people yet to come.