Category: Service

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Service for the 17th Sunday after Trinity

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 17th Sunday of Trinity –

13th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

“Feast of St Francis”

“Themes in John’s Gospel.”

  • Relationships – Part B (John 15:1-17)

Sunday 4th Oct 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Reading:

John 15:1-17:  If you would like to look up the reading for yourself – simply click the link:

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+15%3A1-17&version=NIVUK

Set Readings for today:

Isaiah 5:1-7 – Isaiah’s great cry that Israel has not been faithful comparing it to a Vineyard which was hoped would produce a great crop but which produced only ‘wild grapes.’  Very topical given our Bible Reading for our theme today – Jesus therefore came to be the “new Vine,” to be ‘Israel’ for Israel, because she couldn’t be.

Philippians 3:4b-14 – one of the great writings and teaching of Paul.  Pure poetry and faith, putting Christ at the centre.  Nothing Paul has experienced in his past compared or prepared him for knowing Jesus.  And yet, he also goes on to say, there is still so much more to experience and discover.  How things are is but the beginning.

Matthew 21:33-end – – Jesus’ powerful prophecy and parable about the Vineyard and what will happen to those who don’t look after it.  It is a parable, in that it was talking not a bout a Vineyard as such, but about the nation of Israel and how it had been uncared for and hijacked by religious leaders who simply wanted power.  It is also a prophecy, in that all that Jesus said came to pass, both regarding His own death but also about the Vineyard being taken away from those charged with caring for it – see the destruction of the Temple and the sacking of Jerusalem in AD70 and then again in 135AD.

Hymns and Songs for 17th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

  1. “O, the deep, deep love of Jesus” Songs of Praise version with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TliCy09D3v0&t=126s
  2. Also version with a strong Russian flavour from Simon Khorolskiy, a passionate young Christian singer seeking to bring the Gospel and Christian music to his native land: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLTu1xv2-Us
  •  “There is a Redeemer” – by Keith Green – Songs of Praise version with Lyrics:

Communion Prayer:

During Communion:

– as per last week, an original arrangement and version by Sarah MacLauchlan with lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFkjdFgqOY4&feature=youtu.be

6. “Romance” from the Gadfly – by Dmitri Shostakovich (played by Laura Heathcote): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDW4VJGKLAQ

Children’s Song:

7. “Wide, wide as the Ocean” – with Lyrics and Actions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9KnSK680yg

Modern:

We have been told by Facebook that unfortunately we are not able to play recorded artists during the actual “Livestream” itself at present, so we are playing certain videos either Before or After as a physical Church.  So that everyone can share in a full experience of the breadth of the worship life of the Church details of this music is given here:

As the Service begins:

  1. “Weep with me” by Rend Collective lyrics version:

After the Livestream:

  1. “Jacob’s song” by Br Isaiah SSF (Franciscans of the Renewal) – in celebration of the Feast of St Francis:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9WFac5WEDg

Other songs:

  1. “Open Space” – by Housefires – Gemma writes, “‘Open space’ is a song by ‘Housefires’ (sorry I love them)   And it tells our relationship with Jesus and when he shows us he’s there for us we really feel his presence in all we do ! And we are stronger because we are all united in Jesus Christ! The backing music behind the lyrics too makes it such a peaceful song to listen too”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpdloYnlQJU&app=desktop
  1. “O come, O come, Immanuel”– by Joshua Aaron (in English and Hebrew) live recording in the Tower of David, in Jerusalem – in celebration of the Jewish Festival of Sukkot – Feast of Tabernacles – God with us!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFoFOZmSIfY

Videos:

  1. Example of Selfless love – Diego Mentriga helps British Triathlete, James Teagle to claim his 3rd place after James crashes out.  Remarkable:    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NjRL-K5RM0
  1. A celebration about all things Franciscan: “From Bronx to Bradford.” A great insight into the power and action of God at work through love:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL9TGKRaVpA&t=1098s

And from last week:

  1. “Love: Agape” – Word Study by the Bible Project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slyevQ1LW7A
  1. “Love: Ahavah” – Word Study by the Bible Project:

Film/TV Series

  1. “The Chosen” (TV mini-series) – this is a courageous project to tell the story of Jesus as a TV series.  Financed by crowd funding around the world, it has attracted record viewing numbers in the order of 59 million.  Well worth watching – Series 1 now released.  (You might find you wish to fast forward over the Director/Producer’s quite lengthy introductions at the beginning and reflections at the end.) Available on YouTube and downloadable as an App from the App store to come straight to your phone or tablet.  Episode 1 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=craeyJdrCsE

Film:

  1. “The Sultan and the Saint” a documentary film, crowd funded across the world, looking at the historic and legendary meeting of St Francis of Assisi and the Sultan of Egypt, Al-Kamil in 1219.  Brilliantly put together with many insights we could all learn from in today’s world.  Can be purchased via Amazon (comes form the US).
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Service for 16th Sunday of Trinity

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 15th Sunday of Trinity –

11th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

“Themes in John’s Gospel.”

  1. Justice – Part B (John 16:1-15)

Sunday 20th Sept 2020

Link to watch Sue Hoskins’ Ordination (yesterday): https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2396144370679532&extid=MhlVRUrB29jTD5Du

Alternatively, go to “Bath and Wells” website and scroll down to Ordinations in Newsfeed

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Readings:

John 17:14-26:  If you would like to look up the reading for yourself – simply click the link:

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+17%3A14-26&version=NIVUK

Set Readings for today:

Ezekiel 18:1–4, 25

Philippians 2:1-13 

Matthew 21:23-32

Hymns and Songs for 16th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

  1. “Lord of all Hopefulness” Songs of Praise version with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCBjxVP6GWE&t=15s
  • “Make me a channel of your peace”

– well known Songs of Praise version with lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daGWdbrSGBM

– an original arrangement and version by Sarah MacLauchlan with lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFkjdFgqOY4&feature=youtu.be

Modern:

  1. “Behold the Lamb” by Stuart Townend, and Keith and Kirsten Getty lyrics version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlgd_uT3mmM
  1. “Love Theory” by Kirk Franklin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aD8OK07iIY

Videos:

  1. “Love: Agape” – Word Study by the Bible Project:
  1. “Love: Ahavah” – Word Study by the Bible Project:

Books:

“The Flame of Sacred Love” by Br Ramon SSF. Available from Eden or  Amazon.

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Service for Sunday 20th September the 15th Sunday of Trinity

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 15th Sunday of Trinity –

11th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

“Themes in John’s Gospel.”

  1. Justice – Part B (John 16:1-15)

Sunday 20th Sept 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Readings:

John 16:1-15:  If you would like to look up the whole reading for yourself – simply click the link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+16%3A1-15&version=NIVUK

Set Readings for today:

Jonah 3:10 – 4:11 – Jonah was sent to Nineveh to pronounce God’s judgement on the great city.  But they repented when they heard the message.  Rather than be delighted Jonah is grumpy because God has shown mercy beyond judgement. How do we respond to God’s graciousness both towards calling us to forgive others and to allowing ourselves to be forgiven.  Goes to the heart of the Lord’s Prayer.

Philippians 1:21-end – Paul speaks to his fellow brothers and sister in the Church in Philippi with such compassion but also such certainty of his destiny to the point where he would rather be with Christ through death than to remain in this world.  Out of this closeness of relationship though Paul then speaks of the need for the Church to stand shoulder to shoulder as one worshipping and following the Lord Jesus. 

Matthew 20:1-16 – Jesus speaks both into the human condition but also into the specific situation of many of those from Jewish descent.  For the Jewish community had been faithful to following in the footsteps of Abraham, their spiritual father figure and to the keeping of the Mosaic Law for thousands of years.  But here is Jesus saying, those who have come to faith most recently, and more than that, those who have been rejected by society and thrown of the rubbish heap, they in their thankfulness and humility, those who could not believe they would possibly be invited to the party and treated as an equal, these are those who will lead the parade into the Kingdom.  For it is gratitude, generosity, and humility, not piety, works, and badges that are God’s currency of what aligns a person’s heart with His own.

Hymns and Songs for 15th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

  1. “Jesus Christ is waiting ” by John Bell (Iona Community) with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CSzEviUc_o

Children’s Song:

Modern:

We have been told by Facebook that unfortunately we are not able to play recorded artists during the actual “Livestream” itself at present, so we are playing certain videos either Before or After as a physical Church.  So that everyone can share in a full experience of the breadth of the worship life of the Church details of this music is given here:

  1. “Blowing in the Wind” by Bob Dylan. One of the greatest protest songs. With Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G58XWF6B3AA
  1. “Inner City Blues” by Rodriguez. One of the best protest singers to come out of the US.  His story is quite remarkable (see film recommends).  A story of God’s justice at work.  He is one of his early videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXAaLXWY6RM&list=PLvrWACVuHe6rImJAkWvF03xoGjwZkfYYo&index=9  
  1. “Justica” by The Porter’s Gate.  Created during Lockdown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzEB3NKsNv0&feature=youtu.be
  1. “Justice will roll down” by Sandra McCracken with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhkXpaMrNFk&feature=youtu.be

Played during Communion:

  1. “Romance” – by Shostakovich, from “The Gadfly” played by Laura Heathcote.
  2. You can find a YouTube version of this by clicking the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDW4VJGKLAQ

Played after the Livestream:

  1. “This is Amazing Grace” version by Christopher Duffley of Northland Church.  Christopher has Autism and was born blind due to drug addiction from his mother at birth.  His story and the story of his faith are incredible: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXYTHbS3-RU
  2. See his first video at age ten, “Open the eyes on my heart, Lord,” which we have played before.  It’s innocence and simplicity are truly humbling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXYTHbS3-RU&list=RD-F_W_zl61bI&index=4

Videos:

  1. “Justice” – Word Study by the Bible Project:

Films:

“Searching for Sugarman” the story of Sixto Rodriguez.  This is the story of a singer songwriter, living in the depths of poverty, passed over by his own, only to be discovered and heralded six thousand miles away without him even knowing it for twenty years.  Until one day.  Rodriguez has been compared as a lyricist to the like of Bob Dylan, and in a foreign land, he was bigger than the Beattles.  Great watch (especially if you’re a music buff or like a story of injustice with a happy ending).  Available from Amazon or to rent on Amazon Prime.

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Service for Sunday 13th September – 14th Sunday after Trinity

Recorded at St. Andrew’s, Banwell at 10.30am on Sunday 13th September.

Apologies for the abrupt cutoff after communion – unfortunately the computer froze and we were no longer able to stream video. All that is missing is the notices and blessing. All notices can be found in this week’s New Creation Pew News.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 14th Sunday of Trinity –

10th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

“Themes in John’s Gospel.”

  1. Justice – Part A (John 12:20-33)

Sunday 13th Sept 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Readings:

John 12:20-33 – “Very truly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” (John12:24) The great paradox of the ‘God story.’

If you would like to look up the whole reading for yourself – simply click the link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john+12%3A20-33&version=NIVUK

Set Readings for today:

Genesis 50:15-21 – Realizing that Jacob had died, Joseph’s brothers feared that Joseph might take revenge for their actions of seeking him harm.  They plead for forgiveness and to their amazement they discover Joseph shows them only kindness.  They are indebted to him, and therefore the prophecy that he, Joseph would one day be their shining star is strangely fulfilled.

Romans 14:1-12 – Paul is trying to sort out what can seem almost a very modern problem.  Some people want it this way, and some that.  Each can seek to judge and blame the other and then place Paul in the impossible position of ‘playing Solomon’ – in other words having to choose between the two.  Paul rephrases the whole situation – its not whether you eat meat or not that is important, it’s who you eat it, or refrain from eating it, for?  Is it self, and self-importance, or puritanical status, or is it as an act of loving devotion to God?  Unless it’s the latter, whether you eat meat or refrain from eating, it has no merit. 

Matthew 18:21-35 – Here is Jesus as a storyteller at His best.  In an age which increasingly “does not do God” the great danger is that we will forget that we too are in need, and have indeed been, forgiven.  Without that knowledge we will continue to demand our rights, we will continue to demand ‘justice,’ sadly sometimes as a mask for retribution, but we will find it increasingly hard to go beyond judgement and justice, and to reach out for mercy, for forgiveness and for grace.  And so, the great danger is the world will be hot on ‘right’s language and on ‘demands for justice,’ but cold on compassion and love.

Hymns and Songs for 14th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

  1. “When I survey the Wonderous Cross” Songs of Praise version with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEp6WKSXYQg
  2. Increasingly well-known and popular version by Chris Tomlin:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qC1IllbwX4w&list=RDqC1IllbwX4w&index=1
  •  “The Kingdom of God is Justice and Joy” – with Lyrics:

Modern:

We have been told by Facebook that unfortunately we are not able to play recorded artists during the actual “Livestream” itself at present, so we are playing certain videos either Before or After as a physical Church.  So that everyone can share in a full experience of the breadth of the worship life of the Church details of this music is given here:

  1. “Cornerstone” by Hillsong: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izrk-erhDdk&feature=youtu.be

The person who sent this in said, “I love the lyrics in this song, “my hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness” and later “weak made strong in the saviour’s love”. I’m reminded the world is fallen and full of injustice, but in Jesus we no longer put our faith in the transient things of this world, we have it all already in Jesus.”

  1. “54-46 That’s my number” by Toot Hibbert and the Maytals (Live at Reggae on the River): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhI3iVQfJ1g
  2. Toots was himself wrongly put in Prison (54-46 was his number) and the song is a protest about injustice.  Toots is regarded as the founder of Reggae (a distinctive worldwide phenomenon) and he passed away this week.
  1. “Thank you, Lord” by Bob Marley: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehmAiVSuC9o
  2. In celebration of the fusion between faith and Reggae music
  1. “The Blessing” – version of the epic song of Lockdown by the Christian Reggae Band Christafari – released 4 days ago:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcXJ1b3O8uA
  1. “Revelation Song” – by Christafari: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjDg6H5Ehrs
  2. Probably this Christian Reggae band’s most well-known song

Played after the Livestream:

  1. “Thank you, Lord” by Bob Marley: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehmAiVSuC9o
  2. In celebration of the fusion between faith and Reggae music

Book recommends:

“From Menace to Miracle” by Larry Harvey (Chaplain of Horfield Prison) available from Eden and Amazon, and also as an ebook from Amazon Kindle.  A remarkable story.  All proceeds to Southmead Hospital Neurological Dept.

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Service for the 13th Sunday after Trinity

Recorded at St. Andrew’s, Congresbury on Sunday 6th September.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 13th Sunday of Trinity –

9th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

“Introduction to John’s Gospel: John’s story of King Jesus.”

(John 1:1-18)

Sunday 6th Sept 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Readings:

John 1:1-18 – John introduces Jesus as the King of the Universe born in human flesh.

If you would like to look up the reading for yourself – or simply click the link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1%3A1-18&version=NIVUK

Set Readings for today:

Ezekiel 33:7-11 – God informs Ezekiel he must speak the truth as God’s prophet.  He must tell the people the error of their ways.  But in a rare insight God shares with Ezekiel why.  It’s because God knows that when the people live by other priorities, by other values, and worship other gods, this will lead them not to life but to death, and God wants to save them from the outcome He can foresee.

Romans 13:8-end – Paul, following Jesus, sums up all the Old Testament Commandments in the two that Jesus used, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your mind, with all your soul, and with all your strength.  And love your neighbour as yourself.”  He gives this teaching added emphasis by contrasting it as the difference between walking in the way of the Light, which is to walk according to the Spirit, and walking in the way of darkness, which is to follow simply human desires.  Don’t delay, says Paul, choose Light.

Matthew 18:15-20 – Jesus gives a similar teaching to that given by  God to Ezekiel, this time the disciples and the early Church.  The desire here is not for retribution or punishment of the person who has done wrong, but for restoration, both of the individual and the wider community; that the person be shown the error of their ways and be offered the opportunity to change.  For God delights in one person who changes.  He wants to see nobody lost.  God seems to be a passionate believer is what has come to be known as ‘restorative justice.’

Hymns and Songs for 13th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

  1. “Jesus is King” with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQWP5LYtiZA

For Children and Families:

Modern:

  1. “My world needs you right now” by Kirk Franklin (2017 Stellar Awards Performance): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0WRd4QTTC0
  1. “Atah Gibor” (You are Mighty) Live – Praises for Israel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dv30TWM6Efs 
  2. This recent song (Jan 2020) from this modern Messianic Jewish Christian community, beautifully phrased lyrics.
  1. “Waymaker” – the original version was composed by an African American artist, Sinach.  It has become a modern classic and has been covered by many Christian artists and translated into more than fifty languages.  This original version alone has had 156M views: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4XWfwLHeLM

Played after the Livestream:

  1. “King of Kings” by Hillsong United (Passion 2020 version) – just released: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avBnNQ44yn4
  2. “Passion” is an annual large interstate Christian music convention for College students held in big stadiums throughout the US.
  3. Version with Lyrics so you can sing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OnfQpZr030 
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Live Service for the 12th Sunday of Trinity

Recorded on Sunday 30th August at St. Andrew’s Church, Banwell.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 12th Sunday of Trinity –

8th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

“The song of our hearts” – the story of the Woman at the Well

(John 4)

Sunday 30th August 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Readings:

John 4:1-26 – Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well

If you would like to look up the reading for yourself – or simply click the link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John4%3A1-26&version=NIVUK

  • The Worship and Music Group took the line from Jesus’ lips, “the time is coming, and has now come, when you will worship in Spirit and in truth” (verse 23) as the inspiration for how we approached choosing our worship today.

Set Readings for today:

Jeremiah 15:15-21 – Jeremiah is sometimes regarded as “the miserable prophet,” and not without cause.  But his was painful vocation, to stand alone and for God when it would have been so much easier to give in.

Romans 12:9-end – Gosh, it’s as if Paul wrote these words fresh for these times that we are going through.  Such is Paul’s timeless call to a high standard of Christian love and vocation.  And it is when the Church has sought to live out this vocation that it has stood out throughout history as the ambassador of the King.  As Francis of Assisi used to say, “Go out and share the message of the Gospel to the four corners of the world, and if you have to, use words.”

Matthew 16:21:end – By powerful contrast, Jesus reminds us that even His best friend, Peter will fail all too easily in his task of following.  And, so will we.  That is why we have the Cross.  But better to try and fall short, than not to try at all.  Then in this way, our many little failures, our many little ‘deaths’ to self and to ego, will strangely not only make sense, but indeed become the path to understanding the Way of Love and the Way of the Cross. 

Hymns and Songs for 12th Sunday after Trinity:

This week, in light of our Bible Reading, we chose to approach how we chose hymns and songs differently.  Inspired by the verse “the time is coming, and has now come, when you will worship in Spirit and truth,” (John 4:23) we have sought to share with one another and with everyone else below, key hymns, songs and pieces of music that have truly spoken to us or inspired us in our own lives in the belief that here, by worshipping in Spirit and in truth, we meet with God Himself.

There is a lot of material here, and many stories, each worth exploring, each like a precious offering.  Please enjoy and receive what is offered in the same Spirit in which it is shared.

Traditional:

  1. “Dear Lord and Father of mankind” with Lyrics:
  • Ruth Wratten writes, “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” – Such meaningful words. “Drop Thy still dews of quietness till all our strivings cease.”
  1. “My song is love unknown” with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iv7OZSoA22w
  • Ruth writes, “My song is Love unknown” – same reason. Powerful words.
  1. “The Power of the Cross” by Stuart Townend with Lyrics:
  • Liz Chappell writes, “It’s an amazingly moving hymn, taking us movingly through the Passion story. Verses 4 and the Final chorus bring us directly into the magnificent drama 

Oh to see MY name written in the wounds….. Death is crushed to death…. We stand forgiven at the Cross.

This always moves me to tears.”

  • Rosemary Bailey writes, “I sang this (O to see the dawn- the power of the cross) at a Stuart Townsend concert that Jan Martin invited me to. It was a pivotal moment as it brought home that this was truly “about me”

Singing “Oh, to see my  name written on the cross” and “through Your suffering I am free” made me realise that I was included in this Grace & it set me on a different path of “being a Christian.”

(Around that time was also a very powerful sermon from Kay that affected me in a similar way)

  1. “There is a hope that burns within my heart” with Lyrics:
  • Liz writes, “Hugh would like to nominate ‘There is a hope that burns within my heart. He says that he gets very excited about his faith when he hears it played on the Piano.”
  1. “Father God I wonder” with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuXltxvza5A
  • Kay Friend writes, “When I first started to come to Church we sang “Father God…” tears streaming down my face….
  1. “In Christ alone” with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENtL_li4GbE
  • Kay writes, “it was dear Jan Denley’s favourite also.”
  1. “A Mighty Fortress is our God” with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XUYZoguhEQ&t=25s
  • Howard writes, my hymn is Luther’s “A Mighty Fortress is our God.”
  1. “The Vicar of Dibley theme:” (Psalm 23) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAZN1oVir5A&t=62s
  • Baz Nottage writes, “This version was sung by the college choir at the valedictory when I completed my theology course. I love the hope it brings, it reminds me that peace is found in still waters, a place Jesus leads me to. A place where he takes care of my needs, the struggle of this world being insignificant. In the tough points in my life I play this and I’m reminded that he is with me and this brings comfort. Then the best bit of all, knowing that I will dwell in the house of the Lord all my days. For myself, psalm 23 and this version is all about life and the friend we have in Jesus.
  1. “Be still for the presence of the Lord” sung by Aled Jones: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJMaOxdu6B4
  • Kirsty writes, “This was always my favourite hymn at school and the hymn I sang solo for my audition to join the choir. It reminds us that God is everywhere-wherever we are, He is with us and we can find time to be still in His presence at any moment.”
  1. “Come, Lord Jesus, with Healing Hands,” The Fisherfolk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FLoWz-BGU0&feature=youtu.be
  • Caz writes, “This one is from me this time. It is one that I used to love when I was much younger and the words always spoke to me about being one with each other and with Jesus. How through his healing hands we could all live together in his love.”

Inspired from popular culture:

  1. “I see the Light” from the Disney film “Tangled”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILRs2r6lcHY
  • Kirsty writes, “Rapunzel sings of how she had never truly seen the world before leaving her tower, or finding love. I quoted this song in my application to Pioneer Ministry, ‘At last I see the light and it’s like the fog has lifted…All at once, everything is different, now that I see You.’ I used this to demonstrate how God fills one’s life with the purpose that He has for each of us and until we see that purpose, we can feel as if we’re stumbling in the dark. I also sang this as part of the first talk I gave at a Communion service, so I find it very poignant.”
  • Kirsty has also recorded her own recording which you can watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOPj9ZXL5q4&feature=youtu.be

Instrumental Pieces:

  1. “Concierto d’Aranjuez” – here as part of the film “Brassed Off:” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zo8hIc7DpuE
  • Matt writes, “I still remember when I first saw this film it spoke so powerfully of the struggle ordinary men and women face and who are so easily forgotten. Pete Potherswaite for me was, and is epic – the dignity, the passion and the fragility.  Very powerful. The film is brilliant and is still available on DVD from Amazon or on Amazon Prime.
  • And here a more traditional version by the Spanish guitarist and singer Jose Feliciano who is just incredible and plays purely by ear as he was blind since birth. My wife Jan particularly loves this version.  Such a talented outpouring of pure artistry and spirit.  His flamenco guitar playing at the end is well, breathtaking:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZyPVzN4oyY

During Communion:

  1. “Boldly I approach” a powerful reflective song from Rend Collective – speaking out the message of the Samaritan woman after meeting Jesus her Messiah, and ours. Lyrics version thanks to Rend Collective – one of the few bands to allow Churches to use their music as part of Livestream services): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xx94Fg4qZr8

 Lord’s Prayer in Aramaic:

  1. The epic version sung in Jesus’ own language Aramaic, sung here before Pope Francis by the Cathedral in Georgia. Apparently, the strength of the male voice reminded him of the human spirit in prayer, while the clarity of the young girl’s voice which begins and ends the song reminded him of the voice of the Spirit:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=locW-9S00VU
  • Matt writes, “all I know is pretty much every time I watch and listen to this video it makes the hairs on the back of my neck tingle. Although it is so different to so much else I listen to, there is something about it which speaks almost from another place.”

Modern:

  1. “I will trust in you” by Lauren Daigle with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXMPNXXnCls
  • Jen Nottage writes, “Charlotte and Hayley’s worship song is” Trust in you” by Lauren Daigle. They have chosen this song because “when God doesn’t answer prayers the way you want Him to, we have to trust that there is a bigger picture. This helps us through life in general.”

Played before the Livestream

  1. “No longer Slaves” by Bethel Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k&app=desktop
  • Gemma Stocker writes, “This song has such a Beautiful message that the we are all children of God and how God is with us on our journey of life and when we feel pain we don’t have to fear as God has given  us this perfect love. The tune is rocky and I think is such a modern Christian song that would appeal to young Christians. I was introduced to this song while working on a Salvation Army Christian camp last summer in America and whenever I hear it, it reminds me of my time and also the children I looked after.”

Played after the Livestream:

  1. “The Kingdom Choir – Blinded by your Grace – Part 2” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciy7XqZZmY0
  • Matt writes, “I still remember when I first heard and saw Stormzy’s video of his original live recording. It was so moving, we played it at the Congresbury Carol Service that year and I remember people came up to me afterwards in tears – the truth of Christmas makes the story and hope of this wonderful song real.
  • Stormzy’s original 2018 video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPuj6UISMhs
  • Stormzy’s epic 2019 Glastonbury performance – 130,000 all singing along. I’m sure it made God smile (Big time): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxsjQ967kV8
  • And, of course, “Amazing Grace” the original hymn from which so many versions have been recorded, and is still the most requested and popular hymn, ever. Here again the much appreciated version of 50 countries during this time of Lockdown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BA7pdABvpnc

Further Videos

  1. From the BBC iPlayer – “The Gospel according to Mica: the story of Gospel Music in six songs” – with Mica Paris – excellent insight into the soul of Gospel Music and into the importance of Hope against the backdrop of injustice and the discrimination of racism. But even more than that, the story of hope and healing over pain, suffering and injustice.  I watched it again on Friday evening and it is truly inspirational.  (Only available till Tuesday 1st Sept)
  2. “Shechem: a visit to the place of Jacob’s well and where the woman at the well story took place” – this video by an Australian pastor for a Mexican Mission helps to show many of the sites of this difficult to access place, which today is called Nablus, and is deep in the West Bank. Next time though, when we go to Israel? Enjoy:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v81pj8__ZqA&feature=youtu.be
  3. The story of Jesus and the woman at the well has been one of the most loved and most acted out of all Bible stories. Here is one of many accounts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThEGO0uMCIM
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Live Service for Sunday 23rd August – 11th Sunday after Trinity

Recorded live at 10.30am on Sunday 23rd August from St. Andrew’s Church, Congresbury for the 11th Sunday after Trinity.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 11th Sunday of Trinity –
7th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:
Week 3 of 3 Looking at the Values we have adopted as a
NEW Church:
“There is no ‘them,’ only US: the transforming potential
of the Gospel.”
Sunday 23rd August 2020

Key quote from Chickenshed Theatre Company:
‘If we could get people to believe that this is not just a Utopia that we believe in but a glimpse of a more perfect world…..we might just be able to change the world a bit.’
Taken from the video which we shared as a Music Group: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5dkeIwVvpw&t=8s

Bible Readings:
Key Bible Readings:
Galatians 3:23-29 – Paul’s dream of a new world
And, if you would like to look up the reading for yourself – click the link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/…

Set Readings for today:

Isaiah 51:1-6 – One of Isaiah’s great messages of hope from God.

Romans 12:1-8 – Paul’s great vision of how all Christian people are interconnected into one single family, each with their own gifts and contributions that they can make that builds up the whole body of Christ. There are parallels here to Paul’s other great speech in the same vein in 1Corinthians ch 12.

Matthew 16:13-20: – Jesus asks the disciples the question that He asks everyone, “Who do you say that I am?” He does this at Caesarea Philippi, a place dedicated to numerous gods in Jesus’ day. So, too He asks us today, amongst the many gods that so easily grab our attention, who do we say Jesus is?

Hymns and Songs for 11th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:
1. “Only begotten, Word of God eternal:”
– Sung as a Gregorian Chant by The Cathedral Singers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXBTTOHblqw

2. “Brother, sister let me serve you” Songs of Praise with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttW9oQ-yiuU

3. “I come with joy, a child of God” (St Botolph) with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpBs0b8Nnzs

4. “Gaelic Blessing” – John Rutter with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eve2y-P-Zjk

5. “Jesus put this song into our hearts” by Graham Kendrick with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgKaXcpm4F8

Inspired by the Chickenshed Theatre Video:
6. “Who is my mother, who is my brother” – this was sent in by one of the group after watching the Chickenshed Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6fA35Ved-Y

Great song to sing with Children:
7. “Children of God” – by Christopher Walker (Vocal version): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDC8x3fEBT8

Music for Reflection (during Communion):
8. “Salut d’-armour” by Elgar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5z3ZO0QfFE

Lord’s Prayer in Makaton:
9. Shared by members of the Youth Group: 

Modern:
We have been told by Facebook that unfortunately we are not able to play recorded artists during the actual “Livestream” itself at present, so we are playing certain videos either Before or After as a physical Church. So that everyone can share in a full experience of the breadth of the worship life of the Church details of this music is given here:
Played before the Livestream:
10. “Something inside so strong” by Labi Siffre – epic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otuwNwsqHmQ

Played after the Livestream:
11. “Yes I will” by Vertical Worship – sent in by a member of the Youth group – expresses a belief in praising God even in tough and difficult times: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrTv39-lG4M

Other choices in the Playlist:
12. Appleshed Theatre Company “I am in love with the world” – a classic from the Chickenshed Theatre Company repertoire:

13. “We all bleed the same” by Mandisa, TobyMac, and Kirk Franklin – a powerful statement of seeing the world from God’s point of view: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVKuA1s5I3o

14. “This is me” the classic from the musical “The Greatest Showman” – also sent in by the Youth Group: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjxugyZCfuw

15. Praises Of Israel – Daber El Libi (Speak To My Heart) [Live] – this is a most beautiful and simple song of calling on Jesus to “Speak to my heart” – great song to find beautiful peace: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4fBvDzhYRs

16. “The Spirit and the Bride say Come!” – Jewish & Arab Teen from Israel in Hebrew, Arabic & English Worship Jesus together – a more remarkable video showing young people overcoming hundreds, thousands of years of mistrust: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rQIQMUEBD0

Further Videos
17. “The Arabs are the enemy” – the incredible story of Anastasia Okhrimenko who works for the Messianic Jewish organisation “One for Israel” – the story of how she overcame her hatred. For further insight see this week’s New Creation Pew News “Thought for the Week:” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2uBOUnJCEc

18. Continuing the theme of turning pain into Blessing especially across long standing divides – a story from the sister organisation to “One for Israel” – the Arabic “Pod for Israel and Arabic Outreach” – a remarkable story of sharing the Gospel in Gaza. Please do not be put off by the fact that for some of the speakers English is not their first language: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6Sx6oRhDZg

19. And not long released a version of “The Blessing” in Arabic to bless the whole Arabic world, with some stunning photography – may we be a Blessing not a threat to our Arabic brothers and sisters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qy0v69p5Jik

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Service for Sunday 16th August – 10th after Trinity.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 10th Sunday of Trinity –

6th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:
Week 2 of 3 Looking at the Values we have adopted as a
NEW Church:

“Praying: as a way of ‘Living Well’ in an age of change”
Sunday 16th August 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Readings:

Matthew 15:21-28 – The story of Jesus and the Syrophoenician

And, if you would like to look up the reading for yourself – click the link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/…

Set Readings for today:
Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 – God’s great desire, “to build a House of Prayer for all peoples and nations.”

Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32 – A great leveller and also an encouragement to his Jewish compatriots. Paul is setting himself up for one of his great phrases, “By grace alone. And by faith alone.” Vintage speech – St Paul.

Matthew 15:[10-20] and 21-28: – This included much of the same material we are going to look at today but it shows how it is linked to Prayer when Jesus says, in verses 10-20, that it is what comes out of a person that is the most important thing with regard to God, not simply observing carefully what goes in to a person, which was what the Pharisees focused on. The reason is that, although the two are linked, what comes out of a person also reveals the will and purposes of the heart ie. what is good and wholesome and lifegiving, not just the avoidance of what is not so.

Hymns and Songs for 8th Sunday after Trinity:
Traditional:

1. “Morning has broken” – Songs of Praise with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNf6GeyvUr8
– Cat Stevens famous version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Rifby1tVE8

2. “Take my life and let it be” with Lyrics:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf11rReeWIs
– Version by Chris Tomlin with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ok81MRUUe6Q

3. “O Thou who camest from above” by Charles Wesley. A truly great hymn. With all its power and presence – Songs of Praise Chorister of the Year – Lucy Rhodes in the Albert Hall: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIlNhxAWXZg&t=9s
– Stripped back simple version with solo voice and guitar (recorded as Lockdown commenced): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feXtFiB1JOY

4. “What a friend we have in Jesus”
– Country version by Alan Jackson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znWu2HCJ92c
– Vision Choir version – with actions (great to play with children): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwi_qKVI8lQ

Great song to sing with Children:
5. “What a friend we have in Jesus”
– Vision Choir version – with actions (great to play with children): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwi_qKVI8lQ
– Country version by Alan Jackson with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCV5t8wRBI8

Music for Reflection (during Communion):

6. “Candle on the Water” – sung by Kirsty Bowles: 


– “Original taken from the film “Pete’s Dragon” – speaks of God’s words to each of us in our times of Prayer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGbsrrkZm1s
– Version with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQlYqzn_N6o

Modern:
We have been told by Facebook that unfortunately we are not able to play recorded artists during the actual “Livestream” itself at present, so we are playing certain videos either Before or After as a physical Church. So that everyone can share in a full experience of the breadth of the worship life of the Church details of this music is given here:
Played before the Livestream:

7. “Real Love” by The Kingdom Choir – released only a month ago. Played on Friday night on Radio 2 as I was travelling home – In Aid of Refuge Charity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3joaEgzmetU
Played after the Livestream:

8. “Pray” by Sam Smith feat. Logic – expresses the inner yearning of so many modern hearts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhREiAarjVY

Other choices in the Playlist:
9. “Open the Eyes of my heart, Lord. Open the eyes of my heart” – by Paul Baloche with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idQ1n3cdgfo
– See also a wonderful version of the same song we played a few weeks ago – “A ten year old autistic and blind boy singing.” Remarkable, especially if you have played the professional version first: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-F_W_zl61bI

10. “Lord, I need you” – classic by Matt Maher:
– Version part of World Youth Day in Brazil with the Pope: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZa6spYqHsA
– Version with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuvfMDhTyMA

Further Videos
11. Looking further into Contemplative Prayer “The Prayer of the Heart: ”A short practical guide by Lawrence Freeman from the World Community of Christian Meditation (WCCM) (13mins) Very good: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaVMTJXoCS0
– also quite a few other talks by Lawrence Freeman in the same vein. Simply search for “Lawrence Freeman,” “WCCM,” or “The Prayer of the Heart.”

12. See also – See also the talk we mentioned a few weeks ago, given by Richard Rohr in Norwich Cathedral in 2015, “Becoming Stillness.” Although an hour long, it is one of the best talks to help us understand why Prayer is both so valuable and so important: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TGS-JD80nE

Books:
“The Flame of Sacred Love” by Brother Ramon SSF – great exploration of the Hymn by Charles Wesley that we looked at today. Much more in depth and much better written. A BARGAIN at £2 from Amazon.

TV and Films:
“The Railway Man” – not so much to do with our theme today, but as a way of remembering all that so many went through in the Far East during the Second World War (VJ Day). A great testimony to the power of the human spirit to forgive and to look to live in the light of reconciliation. A true story. Well worth a watch. Was shown Friday night (14th Aug) on BBC 1, and so should be available on iPlayer. Alternatively, available on DVD from Amazon, or Amazon Prime.

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Service for Sunday 9th August, the 9th Sunday after Trinity.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 9th Sunday of Trinity –

5th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

Week 1 of 3 Looking at the Values we have adopted as a
NEW Church:

“Be Kind: giving in or a spiritual discipline?”

Sunday 9th August 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Readings:

Matthew 20:1-16 read by Nottage Family (Video)
And, if you would like to look up the reading for yourself – click the link: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/…

Set Readings for today:

1Kings 19:9-18 – The great meeting between God and Elijah, God in the power of the silence.

Romans 10:5-15 – Paul great speech of faith and how this faith needs to be shared with the whole world, Jew and Gentile alike.
Salvation in Paul, is not merely that one’s place is assured in heaven, great though that certainly is. It’s more to know “heaven on earth,” to know what one’s destiny looks like, hence why He can say one “is saved.” “Our lives are already hid with Christ IN God” (Colossians 3:3). And Jesus says pretty much the same as part of the Lord’s Prayer, “Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, ON earth as it is in heaven.”
Why this is important is because, without meaning to, “Salvation” as we have come to understand it can become a ‘marker’ for those only who are going to heaven, and assuming therefore everyone else isn’t. Whereas, according to Paul and to Jesus’ teaching, the ‘saved’ are those, like the first fruits, who discover and understand the ‘Promise’ in advance, in this life, and so are willing to share it, in love and trust, in the belief that it is there for all in the life to come. This helps to understand the full impact of Paul’s teaching after years that the Jewish people thought that heaven was just for their own as God’s ‘chosen’ people. Paul’s speech was dynamite.

Matthew 14:22-33 – One of the great stories of an experience with Jesus, and one that we will look at next week when we look at Prayer – in order to walk with Jesus you have to be willing to get out of the boat, to embrace vulnerability and to open your heart and trust. Wonderful stuff.

Hymns and Songs for 8th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

1. “Make me a channel of your Peace” – Songs of Praise with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daGWdbrSGBM

2. “Jesus is Lord” – by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty – with Lyrics – wonderful meaningful words: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLJFpxOcGKk

3. “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God” with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsBpM9IcBts

4. “How deep the Father’s love for us” by Selah, with lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKDujmtyAVk

5. “I, the Lord of Sea and Sky” – Songs of Praise, with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgLwH5RdtPk

Great song to sing with Children:

6. “Jesus hand were kind hands” with Lyrics – wonderful version of children singing during Lockdown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g2VKLOOTfU

Music for Reflection (during Communion):

7. “Chanson de Matin” by Elgar – with some beautiful paintings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4Zdl4D0a1o

Modern:

8. “Broken Things” by Matthew West, with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdUu6ZsdVfM

9. “Today” by Kirk Franklin, with great Lyrics (the distorted music in the background at various points is part of the song not due to a bad recording). Great to tap your feet to or dance to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkwNGhFSirk

10. “A God like you” by Kirk Franklin – signature tune to Michelle Obama’s film “Becoming” – her story in her own words. Apparently, she listens to Kirk Franklin as part of her workout Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch…

11. John Waller “While I’m Waiting” feat. scenes from FIREPROOF – sent in by members of the Youth Group: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6X71sXagUY

Further Videos

12. “Hesed” Love = Redemptive, faithful Love = Kindness – great little video explaining through image and song the power, strength and importance of spiritual Kindness: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8lw0bwlEjs

13. “Covenants” by the Bible Project – the idea of the faithful partnership of God with humanity working together in, with and for the renewal of Creation in and through Jesus. A great summary of the power of “Hesed” love: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ferLIsvlmI&t=27s

Books:

“The Shadow of the Galilean” by Gerd Theissen – a creative fictional story based on much historical research about a businessman from Galilee blackmailed to spy on Jesus by the Roman authorities. Great background insight into first century Jewish life, especially in Galilee. Very readable. Available from Eden, Amazon or on ebook via Kindle.

“Jesus Plan for a New World” by Richard Rohr – the first third of the Book of the contains a lot of background about first century Jewish life and culture and of the reach and impact of Rome upon it in terms of power. Richard Rohr then goes on to show how Jesus’ teaching and life, death and resurrection offer the world an alternative path along which to travel. The Book contains a brilliant chapter on “The Beatitudes.” Also available from Eden, Amazon and on ebook via Kindle.

TV and Films:

“Becoming” – the story of Michelle Obama in her own words (based on her International Bestselling Book of the same name) – you can find “Becoming” currently on Netflix. Here is a lady who reached the very pinnacle of American culture and political life, and who, as her brother says in the film, is known literally, “by the whole world.” And yet she keeps her feet firmly rooted on the ground and her faith intact in her heart (she opens the whole Netflix documentary with Kirk Franklin’s “I want to be like you.” Thinking about kindness, one of Michelle Obama’s most famous lines from book and film is, “when they go lower, we go higher.” And yet she, and her husband, had to put up with so much at the hands of others. Quite remarkable to allow such love, conviction, passion and grace to win out.

And if you are interested in looking further into Contemplative Prayer “The Prayer of the Heart” a bit deeper:
A short practical guide by Lawrence Freeman from the World Community of Christian Meditation (WCCM): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaVMTJXoCS0

– See also a great talk given by Richard Rohr in Norwich Cathedral in 2015, “Becoming Stillness” – (recommended a couple of weeks ago). Although an hour long, it is one of the best talks to help us understand why Prayer is both so valuable and so important: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TGS-JD80nE

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Sunday’s Talk to Download

Hi all. Matt has very kindly attached notes to the PowerPoint slides that he used on Sunday morning so that we can all read over them in our own time.

Click here to access our Facebook group Church@Home where you will find the downloadable file.

We hope you find this helpful. Love to all.