Guidance has now come out from the Church of England and Bishop Martin about how we can open the church again for public worship. It’s comprehensive and will take a while for us to work through with the PCC and find the best way forward for our church. Bishop Martin reassures us that there is no rush and we can to do this in our own time and in the way that works best for our local context.
We will continue with services on the internet as well as in church, recognising that some people might be shielding and unable to come. In the meantime, keep joining us on the internet if you can. We will keep you notified of any developments on the website as to how and when we can gather physically together.
Remember, the church remains open for private individual prayer, Tuesday to Sunday 9am-6pm.
This Sunday we have all age service on Zoom, with hymns, a talk, plus some help with the service from our children. I hope you will be able to join us!
Collect
Gracious Father,
by the obedience of Jesus
you brought salvation to our wayward world: draw us into harmony with your will,
that we may find all things restored in him, our Saviour Jesus Christ.
Readings
- Zechariah 9.9-12
- Psalm 145.8-15
- Romans 7.15-25a
- Matthew 11.16-19, 25-30
Revd Jess’s picture for this week’s Gospel reading
Revd Jess writes:
This is such a familiar verse ... come to me all who are heavily laden and I will give you rest; or, as this week's reading has it ... Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. I was thinking about what those burdens are? Or could be? The picture is supposed to show the beginning of them being lifted off. Healing services can be a time when people witness in themselves - and in others -the truth of Jesus's promise 'Come and I will give you rest.'
On the Fence Art Exhibition
George Hickman writes:
Hi everyone, last call for the One the Fence’ art exhibition.
The 8th July is last day for entries. There is still time. I have had a sneak preview of some, and have to say I’m very impressed! Look forward to seeing you all soon. The exhibition starts at 11 am on the 11th July, concluding on the 12th, 3 pm. Do please come along and support your fellow congregation members.’
Social distancing guidance will be in place.
Church Magazine
The July issue is now available for download. It’s a bumper issue with much variety!
Thank you to Adam and all our contributors.
And finally...
My time as a curate is coming to an end. I’ve finished all my formal studies and now look forward to becoming your Associate Vicar, hopefully sometime in July. This will be a half-time post. I feel very blessed to be amongst you all. Thank you for all your support and fellowship during my three years with you as your curate.
We now look forward to Steve Emerson’s ministry with us as our next curate in the benefice. He has been licensed as a lay minister by Bishop Martin and his delayed ordination will be in October.
I hope you are all managing to cope with the transitions into partial lockdown. Do get in touch if you need any support or just a chat.
Revd Jane