Dear members of the Newcastle Anglican community,
Late last year I underwent my annual health review with my GP. It resulted in a visit to a specialist and some further tests over the last seven weeks.
This morning, I received a diagnosis that I have Prostate Cancer. My specialist has assured me that it is highly treatable with an excellent prognosis. It was news my doctors had prepared me and my family for but was still not easy to hear.
I am sharing this with you because our relationship in this Newcastle Anglican community is important. I also want to encourage men to make sure they are talking about changes in their body with their GP. A regular health check and wise medical advice enabled me to get good support and a positive prognosis. There were one or two warning signs that I might have ignored.
I am also sharing this because these experiences allow us to move closer into the life of God, including through prayer. I rejoice often in the partnership in prayer and reflection many of us share.
Nicki and I have some planned leave from tomorrow (23rd February) until March 1st. One of Nicki’s greatest joys is camping and kayaking. We take great comfort in the beauty of the great outdoors. For much of this time, my phone will be out of range.
Shortly after we return, I will finalise some tests and commence a treatment path.
This will have some impact on aspects of my day-to-day ministry and the roles I hold with great joy within Newcastle Anglican, its schools, and service agencies.
Newcastle Anglican is blessed with great leadership. Bishop Charlie and Bishop Sonia are outstanding episcopal companions. John Barriga, our Diocesan Chief Executive, and the senior leaders of Newcastle Anglican bring strong day-to-day leadership. We will be continuing to work on our improvement journey, doing more than simply business as usual.
Whilst this is an unsettling time in my life, I am feeling very positive and have a strong support network around me. I am very grateful for this.
I will share some updates with you all in the coming weeks.
Thank you for your prayers and be assured of my prayers for you.
Grace and peace,
+Peter Stuart
Bishop of Newcastle