I SUPPOSE there can be occasions when one would be happy to make the headlines in this paper, but making the front page following the recent theft of lead from the south aisle roof of St. Michael’s Kirkby Malham was a low point both for me and the residents of Malhamdale.

To suddenly find ourselves facing a bill for repairs running to over £80,000, so soon after we had just completed a mammoth fundraising drive to raise funds for re-roofing the nave roof, was very dispiriting.

They say, though, that sometimes good things can come from bad, and I’ve been overwhelmed by the goodwill expressed by so many people. We’ve received many messages of support and extremely generous donations from a wide range of folk, not just from within the Dale. There have been so many "Good Samaritans".

Life seems to have created a big snakes and ladders board for us in Malhamdale. As we reached the top of a ladder, having raised sufficient funds for the nave roof, we have had to set about a fresh challenge having slid suddenly down a snake following the lead theft! After the theft I shared with people locally some words of my vicar when I was a teenager which I still remember. He said: "Christians must make difficulties opportunities."

One key way we ride moments like these is discovering our true sense of community and really valuing each other as neighbours. "But who is my neighbour?" said the smart alec lawyer to Jesus. Jesus’ answer was, of course, to tell the parable of the Good Samaritan.

"Who was neighbour to the injured man?" asks Jesus after recounting it. The lawyer rightly cites the Good Samaritan. "Go and do likewise," says Jesus.

It’s good practical advice and it works!

The Rev Michael Jackson

Vicar of St Michael the Archangel, Kirkby in Malhamdale