Return to ‘Hybrid Church’ as of Sunday 25th April

Following a meeting of the Joint Leadership Team on Wednesday, both Church Councils have decided that they wish to begin “physical” worship again, alongside and integrated with “online” worship, in what we call “Hybrid Church,” as from Sunday 25th April.

The service on the 25th will be in Congresbury, and then it will alternate, week by week, with Banwell, as it did before. Those from each community, and those who have joined during this time “online” are very welcome to attend either ‘physical’ Church for worship subject to all the previous COVID rules:

  • Everyone must wear a Facemask, sanitise their hands, and be willing to undertake “test and trace.”
  • People will need to be willing to sit in their ‘bubbles,’ up to a maximum of six in a bubble, and to keep a two-metre distance from other bubbles.
  • Sadly, at present there still cannot be any singing by the congregation when we are in the Church building.
  • Communion is taken in the form of “bread only.”
  • Obviously, if you are aware of having been in contact with a case of COVID, or are showing any symptoms, please refrain from physically attending Church and seek medical attention if needed.
  • Finally, after the service, we kindly ask people to leave promptly in your bubbles to keep social interaction to a minimum.

The Wardens and others are very aware that ‘returning’ to ‘physical’ Church will be a great blessing for some, and of considerable concern for others.  It is simply there as part of our offering as a Church community – we will continue with “online Church” as an integrated aspect to our physical worship, and we will continue with Church@Home link groups, Pew News and the offer of Home Communion which is open and available to all.

To find out more about any of these or to discuss any concerns please send us a message or speak to one of the Wardens in either Church.

Matt Thomson.

Special Service for Harvest

Recorded live from St. Andrew’s, Banwell and St. Andrew’s, Congresbury on Sunday 11th October.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for Joint Harvest Festival –

14th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

“Joint Harvest Celebration”

( Matt 6:25-34 and “the Canticle of the Creatures” – Francis of Assisi)

Sunday 11th Oct 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Reading:

Matt 6:25-34:  If you would like to look up the reading for yourself – simply click the link:

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+6%3A25-34&version=NIVUK

Set Readings for today:

Isaiah 25:1-9 – This is one of Isaiah’s great speeches, embodying the hope that God will come, in the form of His Messiah, and put things right in the world, lifting up the lowly and humbling the proud.  As Christians this is something we have both seen in Jesus’ first coming but also long to see completed by His second coming.

Philippians 4:1-9 – Paul is giving instructions and seeking to inspire perseverance in the little Philippian Christian community.  He thereby encourages us to do likewise, letting our hearts be filled with thanksgiving, praise and prayer, these change us and how we then see the world.

Matthew 22:1-14 – This is one of the most powerful of Jesus’ parables and has just as much edge for today as it did in former times.  The wedding banquet is the new Kingdom that God is seeking to usher in.  Like the Israelites in the wilderness after the Exile, they/we need to be prepared for that Kingdom.  Those invited first, are those in any age who think they have a ‘right’ to be there – the Jewish elite and religious types in Jesus’ day, those of us who would claim to be ‘faithful’ and go to Church in our own.  But unless we allow our hearts to be changed our clothes remain as they always were.  Wedding clothes are given by the Groom’s Father at a Jewish wedding – will we truly receive and wear the Cross of Jesus?   Only then, are we worthy to enter the wedding banquet.  So often I find, those who don’t think they are worthy are the ones Jesus speaks so favourably of in this parable, and those who think they have somehow got there have much yet to learn.

Hymns and Songs for Harvest Festival:

Traditional:

  1. “Come, ye thankful people, come” Songs of Praise version with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3n7IUCdqAM
  • “For the fruits of His Creation” version with Lyrics:

Children’s Harvest song:

  1. “Harvest talk for schools” by Rob Waldron (Diocese Rural Affairs Advisor) – great to watch with children about modern farming: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiIZ27NcaQo&feature=youtu.be

During Communion:

  1. “Sing of the Lord’s goodness” – sung by the Jazz Church:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9fsAKZHq-w
  2. Songs of Praise version with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGE6ZOumLQM

Modern:

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. “Indescribable” by Chris Tomlin with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IlVfkY5q54

After the Livestream:

  1. “Creation sings the Father’s song”” by Keith and Kirsten Getty with Lyrics:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyED26qgRrA

Other songs:

  1. “So will I” – acoustic version of this well-known Bethel Music song by Tori Kelly (we played this a couple weeks ago after the Livestream): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IuedrKMVbFk
  1. “Psalm 42”– a version “As the Deer” by Tori Kelly with Kirk Franklin on piano: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGgsmCEgf4w
  1. “Worthy is the Lamb” by Hillsong – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-cd5prE4f0

Videos:

  1. Talk about Harvest by Rob Waldron (Diocese Rural Affairs Advisor): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MruI8wCEvBg&feature=youtu.be

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

Church APCM’s

The Annual Parochial Church Meetings and Election of Churchwardens will be taking place over the coming weeks. These have been postponed from April due to the COVID restrictions.

Anyone may attend these meetings and all are very welcome, although the churches themselves are obviously subject to the same restrictions as church services, so we will be welcoming the majority of people via zoom.

Please see joining details below.

Banwell APCM

Friday 16th October 2020 at 7 PM

Please log on to zoom at 6:50pm for 7pm start.

To Join the Zoom Meeting – please click the link below

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83342933361

Meeting ID: 833 4293 3361

 

Congresbury APCM

Wednesday 21st October 2020 at 7:30 PM

Please log on to zoom at 7:20pm for a 7:30pm start

To Join the Zoom Meeting please click on the following link and, when prompted, enter the passcode.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85023159350?pwd=a3RuRGk3TGFrYlVnQko5aFpzTk9aUT09

Meeting ID: 850 2315 9350

Passcode: 796275

 

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 

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

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

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.

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

Livestream Service for the 8th Sunday after Trinity

Recorded live at 10.30am Sunday 2nd Auguat from St. Andrew’s, Banwell.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 8th Sunday of Trinity –
4th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:
“Celebration of the Feast of the Transfiguration” (6th Aug)
Sunday 2nd August 2020
Bible Readings:
Key Bible Readings:
Matthew 17:1-13 read by Sarah Sims
1 Corinthians 13: Paul’s great message of Love

Set Readings for today:
Isaiah 55:1-5 – This most wonderful passage which talks about the Lord, Yeshua (Jesus) wine, milk, rich food and water without cost and of renewing the great Covenant with Israel and with all people.

Romans 9:1-5 – Paul begins a famous speech where he laments for his fellow Israelites who have received so much at the hands of God and yet who do not recognise the Mashiach – the Jewish name for the Messiah who Paul has come to see is none other than Yeshua (Jesus).
There is much hope however in modern times with the outreach work of “One for Israel,” a Jewish Christian group based in Israel and throughout the world – Jewish people speaking to their own brothers and sisters about their discovery of Jesus.

See https://www.oneforisrael.org/ where they have some amazing testimonies from fellow believers. Very inspirational especially around Isaiah 53, but also insightful into the cultural barriers for a Jewish person to become a Christian.

Matthew 14:13-21 – the great story of the Feeding of the Five Thousand – Jesus’ re-enactment Moses and the Exodus with the Manna from heaven and the Quail. Jesus is showing not just compassion for the people, important though that is, but also calling them into becoming a renewed people – people who would be ‘Israel’ to Israel and the world again, a people fit to proclaim and inhabit the Kingdom of God.

Hymns and Songs for 8th Sunday after Trinity:
Traditional:
1. “Oh worship the King, all glorious above” – Songs of Praise with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQygFycpvBA

2. “Immortal, invisible, God only wise” – Songs of Praise with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spE-BE23qxA

3. “Jesus is Lord, Creation’s voice proclaims it” – with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prEq8NOx3vs

4. “Be still for the presence of the Lord” – Aled Jones singing solo – captures very much the moment of the Transfiguration as if these were the words of Peter, James or John: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJMaOxdu6B4

5. “Shine, Jesus, Shine” – by Graham Kendrick – Songs of Praise with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y13tGESE11Y

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

Anthem:
7. “50 countries affected by CoVid 19 sing one song – Amazing Grace” – as played in Church: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BA7pdABvpnc&t=32s
– Version with Lyrics to sing along to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDdvReNKKuk

Great song to sing with Children:
8. “You shall go out with the joy” with Lyrics – based on Isaiah 55: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMkWGtkbMFU

Music for Reflection:
9. “Gabriel’s Oboe” played by Henrik Chaim Goldschmidt – became known as “The song from the film The Mission (1986)” – close your eyes and enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2WJhax7Jmxs

Modern:
10. “Glory be to God” – Sounds of New Wine (just released July 2020 during Lockdown) – clever improvisation of screens: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpF53DhhLLI

11. “King of Kings” – Hillsong (Live) – one of their great anthems: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQl4izxPeNU
– With Lyrics so you can sing along: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OnfQpZr030

12. “Blinded by your Grace – Part 2” – by Stormzy – a re-work of the great hymn “Amazing Grace” by this South London artist (Live version at Glastonbury Festival 2019 – awesome, a mainstream international artist on Main Stage in front of 130,00 young people and millions at home professing his faith): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxsjQ967kV8
– The famous video from South London that made the song so well received: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPuj6UISMhs
– Lyrics version so you can sing along: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsxBrb_uXNg

Reflection on the contribution of Gospel and Soul Music:
Ties in with reference to “The Gospel according to Mica: the story of Gospel music through six songs” (BBC 4) – a must see. Songs include:
– Amazing Grace
– Go down Moses
– Precious Lord, take my hand
– Touch the hem of His garment
– O Happy Day
– Blinded by your Grace – Part 2

13. The Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin sings “Higher Mountains” as part of her “Amazing Grace” concert in her Dad’s Baptist Church in Detroit (1972) – Awesome: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZT85ycZRyOE

14. “Oh Happy Day” – The Edwin Hawkins Singers (Remix of the Original using modern technology) Fabulous Original: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3R8eu12htg

15. “Precious Lord, take my hand” – Thomas Dorsey – true vintage Gospel – written within hours of learning both his wife and his baby child had passed away. Became a firm favourite of Dr Martin Luther King Jr – in fact requested by him on the morning the day that he was later assassinated: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oVcgrbeByo

16. “Go down Moses” version by the great Louis Armstrong – couldn’t be more appropriate at the moment #Black Lives Matter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JNCS27rtQ8

Further Videos:
17. Moving Scene from “The Mission” (1986) featuring the song “Gabriel’s Oboe:” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ui91q7Y9xPk

18. “Most recent research on the Turin Shroud” – shows how the Resurrection was an enormous explosion of UV light, not unlike a second “Big Bang” but this time in and through the Body of Jesus. May not be “proof” but very interesting not least because it shows how Science and Faith may indeed inform each other: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9lMQlI32wE&t=37s

TV and Films:
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.
“The Mission” (1986) – the story of the Gospel and the native American Indians of South America. Incredibly moving at many levels – based on a true story. Stars a young Jeremy Irons, Robert De Niro and Liam Nielsen. Available on DVD, Netflix and Amazon Prime.

And from last week:
For those who might be interested in learning more about the “Interior Life” – see talk 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

*UPDATE* Facemasks will become mandatory in Churches from 8th August.

IMPORTANT UPDATE on the opening of Church Buildings for Worship and Occasional Offices – FOLLOWING THE GOVERNMENT’S ANNOUNCEMENT FRIDAY 31st JULY –

As from Sunday 8th August we have been advised that all those attending physical Church WILL NEED TO WEAR A FACEMASK OR FACECOVERING while in the Building or socially “Catching Up” afterwards.

This is to help protect others and the wearers themselves and is part of the Government’s strategy to try and minimise the possibility of spreading infection.

Thank you all for your understanding.

STAY ALERT. SAVE LIVES. PROTECT THE NHS.