To you, Helen and all your family,

We at Hope lament the fact that we have not been together as a church for the much needed comfort and support.  We have been forced to march to the drumbeat of Covid -19.  With our church building closed,  our grief and deep sense of loss has, of necessity, been as private as it is personal.  Robbie’s legacy has yet to be fully realised, voiced and acted upon.

Our loss of a Pastor, a shepherd – who “restored our souls”  goes deep; simply because Robbie preached God’s words with an insight and passion that brought many to their knees in faith and love of our Lord.   Time and again he would remind us that ‘God has a plan’: because Robbie had the ability to see the big picture.  He also had the courage to attempt great things for God and took us with him.  Few would say ‘no’ to Robbie!  His immense military discipline came easily into play.  A born leader, bold in speech and fervent in prayer – his was an example to follow.  The ‘plan’ was a fine one and it was being worked out – it was blessed abundantly.  May we be forgiven for asking Our Lord, “Why so short a time amongst us?” – a poignant question. 

Robbie, we grieve because we loved you.  We will continue to witness as we hold on to all that you meant to so many.  Our memories are precious,  for Robbie Hall was gifted to Hope by Our Lord.

We ask now Robbie, that you continue your ministry to us by bringing us, through our Lord Jesus Christ, to the Father’s throne of Grace.  We have this confidence,  for you most surely are hearing the words we all long to hear, “Well done thou good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of the Lord.”   You remain in the plan through prayer…. “For I know the plans I have for you”,  declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”   Those words became yours and ours too.

Feel the loving embrace of your church family, Helen (we reach out to your family too).   We journey on together in Christian love.

Rhonwen.