‘Every new beginning starts with an ending’ - Bridlington vicar’s Easter message of hope

Revd Carey will become the new Director of Mission and Ministry for the diocese, building on decades of parish and leadership experience.

His Easter message, reproduced in full below, looks back to his time in Bridlington and also forward to the future:

A wise person once said: “every new beginning starts with an ending.” This Easter, those words feel especially real for me.

Easter lies at the heart of the Christian story. It holds together the sorrow of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday. It reminds us that endings, however painful, are not the final word. Out of loss, God brings new life. Out of darkness, light breaks through.

This year, Easter Sunday will also be my final service in Bridlington after eight years of ministry here. It is a moment that brings both gratitude and sadness, but also a deep sense of hope.

When I first arrived, I could not have imagined all that these years would hold. Like everyone, we have lived through extraordinary times. The global pandemic reshaped so much of our shared life, bringing isolation, uncertainty, and loss. The network of churches I have had the privilege to oversee have emerged from the pandemic into challenge after challenge but also enjoyed many new opportunities in these ongoing uncertain times.

I am thankful for the friendships that have developed and the working relationships that have emerged. One particular friend to many of us, Rev Richard Hare, a much-loved vicar of Emmanuel Church is remembered with affection for his character, life and ministry, and is greatly missed.

Yet even in the midst of challenge, I have seen so much that reflects the hope of Easter.

I have seen relationships grow across churches, as people from different traditions have come together with a shared heart for this town.

I have had the privilege of helping lead our town’s Remembrance services, moments that draw us together in honour, reflection, and gratitude.

I have seen the beauty of this place, the sea, the wide skies, the changing seasons with their quiet reminders of God’s faithfulness. Most of all, I have seen new life.

I have seen people find hope again through the love and service of the churches, and through the compassion of individuals and organisations across Bridlington.

Those facing addiction, debt, poor health, and grief have not been forgotten. Instead, they have encountered kindness, care, and a renewed sense that their lives matter.

This is something of the Easter story being lived out among us.

As I look ahead to a new chapter, I do so with deep thankfulness for these past eight years. Bridlington has shaped me, and I will carry its people and stories with me.

My hope for the future, both for myself and for this town and wider area is rooted in Easter: that we would continue to believe endings are not the end; that we would hold on to hope when life feels uncertain; and that we would keep choosing compassion, generosity, and community.

Because Easter reminds us that the story is not over. In fact, it may just be beginning.