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Service for Sunday 21st February – First Sunday of Lent

Bible Readings for 1st Sunday of Lent:

Genesis 9:8-17 – Genesis 9:8-17 NIVUK – Then God said to Noah and to his sons – Bible Gateway – The story of the great covenant between Noah and God signed and sealed by the rainbow.  Not just that God would not cause another great flood, like the one they had just been through, but that there would be an ongoing and lasting relationship between the Creator God and all His Creation.  Something God still holds fast to, to this day even though many human beings have lost sight of it. 

1Peter 3:18-end – – Peter links the death and resurrection of Jesus with the ‘spiritual’ death and resurrection we each go through in baptism.  And then Peter makes this strange reference to Jesus going and making a proclamation to ‘the spirits in prison’ who were from the time before the flood, in the time of Noah and the Ark.  You will each need to make up your own mind whether that ‘proclamation’ was to set these prisoners free from the judgement they had been through at the time of the flood, or that it was a ‘proclamation’ of judgement and such spiritual ‘prisoners’ were found wanting?   

Sort of depends how you see biblical salvation working out?  What is wonderful to see, is the powerful link between Baptism and Easter front and central in the life and practice of the early Church.

Mark 1:9015 – The majority of this passage we looked at last week in relation it all aspects of love being about God and those marvellous lines – “you are my son/you are my daughter, whom I love, and in you I am well pleased.”

So many people, in Church and beyond, need to hear this, not just with their ears but in their hearts and in their soul.  What is great is that, in verses 14 and 15, Jesus says “the time for that fulfilment is now and it is here.”  In Him.

 

Songs in the Service:

  1. “The Wilderness:” by The Isaacs. A country and western approach to this topic that many other singer/songwriters pass over: (20) The Isaacs – The Wilderness (Official Lyric Video) – YouTube

 

  1. “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God:”

 

  1. “How can it be” by Lauren Daigle

 

  1. “The Power of the Cross” by Keith and Kirstyn Getty:

 

  1. “Lord, I need you:” popular classic by Matt Maher:

 

  1. “Pride – In the name of Love:” originally by U2 in memory of Rev Dr Martin Luth King Jr – an embodiment of someone who learnt how to tap into his “wilderness” space:

 

Readings, Talks, and Prayers:

  1. “Bible Reading – Matthew 4:1-11” by Ian Stocker: https://youtu.be/pLkDcnDfx2o

 

  1. “Prayers” – by Romany Poppett-Price: https://youtu.be/9lO-_5qucqg

 

Traditional Hymns and Songs:

  1. “Great is Thy faithfulness:” – Songs of Praise version. With Lyrics: (20) Great is thy faithfulness – YouTube

 

  1. “Forty days and Forty nights:” version by the Chet Valley Choir. With Lyrics: (20) Forty Days and Forty Nights [with lyrics for congregations] – YouTube

 

Modern:

  1. “Wilderness” by Gateway. With Lyrics.  You could almost imagine these words being on the mouth of Jesus Himself during His time on the desert.  Great for anyone finding life ‘dry’ at present: (20) Wilderness – by Gateway – YouTube

 

  1. “You are my all in all” With Lyrics: (20) You are My All in All – YouTube

 

Videos/DVD:

  1. “The Desert Blossoms” – beautiful video of just how real this phenomenon is. As if you were really there.  Great encouragement: (20) The Desert blossoms – YouTube
  2. “Ein Gedi and the Waterfall of David:” by Sergio and Rhoda. An oasis and waterfall in the middle of the Judean Desert not far from the Dead Sea.  Will bring back many memories to those who have visited it.  Where King David probably write many of the Psalms not least Psalm 42: (20) Ein Gedi and the Waterfall Of David – YouTube 

7.   “Oasis in the Desert:” by Sergio and Rhoda.  Visiting one of the oldest monasteries in the world. St Gerasimos: (20) Oasis in the Judean Desert in Israel – YouTube

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Service for Sunday 7th February – Second Sunday before Lent

Bible Readings for 2nd Sunday before Lent:

Click the links that take you straight to the text (CTRL and “Left Click”) if that helps:

Proverbs 8:1, 22-31 – Proverbs 8.1,22-31 NIVUK – Wisdom’s call – Does not wisdom call – Bible Gateway – this is a most beautiful passage.  When people say the Old Testament is full of wars and violence and an angry God of Judgment we need to be reminded of passages like this one.  The Wisdom of God, which some would later see to encapsulate the heart and person of Jesus and/or the Holy Spirit, “delights” in Creation and in humanity and is instrumental in both their creation existing, as she does, before the beginning of time.  The playfulness and delight of Wisdom certainly comes through. How much different our faith would be if we had but listened to her over the years.

Colossians 1:15-20 – Colossians 1:15-20 NIVUK – The supremacy of the Son of God – The – Bible Gateway – This is the ‘Colossians’ equivalent of the ‘big picture’ story we find famously captured in John 1:1-14. Colossians sees Jesus as the common bridge between the old Creation and the new, between heaven and earth, between Old and New Testaments.  Jesus’ death being the absolute pivot point to it all.  

John 1:1-14 – Probably one of the most famous and most loved passages of the Bible.  Read every Christmas.  In the context of our theme today – that of St Brigid of Kildare and the idea of “Soul friendship“– John’s Gospel provides us with a very real and practical example of how “soul friendship” can be put into practice. 

John begins his passage about who Jesus is by referring to abstract ideas , not least from Greek philosophy, that Jesus is “the Word” not only from God but also for all of creation and humanity.  But , by the time he gets to verse 14, that which is, in the beginning abstract, suddenly bursts forth into the real, the here and now and now of life experience, when Jesus so famously says, “Thy Word became flesh and dwelt among us.

Suddenly salvation has dawned for the whole earth, whether not the Church or the rest of humanity can see it. 

 

Songs in the Service:

  1. “My Lighthouse:” by Rend Collective: (10) Rend Collective – My Lighthouse (Official Video) – YouTube

 

  1. “O, the deep, deep love of Jesus:”

 

  1. “We will meet” by John Bell (Iona Community): (11) ‘We Will Meet’ – YouTube

 

  1. “Brother, sister let me serve you:”

 

  1. “Simplicity” by Rend Collective: (11) Rend Collective – Simplicity – YouTube

 

Readings, Talks, and Prayers:

  1. “Bible Reading – John 1:1-14” by Romany Poppet-Price: (11) Romaney’s Bible Reading for Sunday 7th February – YouTube

 

  1. “Prayers” – Part 1 – by Howard: (11) Howard’s Prayer – Part 1 – YouTube
  2. “Prayers” – Part 2 – by Howard: (11) Howard’s Prayers – Part 2 – YouTube

 

Traditional Hymns and Songs:

  1. “God is love, let heaven adore him:”

 

  1. “It is well, with my soul:” cover version of this well known Spafford/Sankey hymn. Written originally in the face of huge adversity. Holding out for hope and faith come what may: (11) It Is Well With My Soul | Anthem Lights – YouTube

 

Modern:

  1. “Fix You” cover version of the ‘classic’ from Cold Play by Fearless Soul. One can almost imagine the Soul speaking to the Self.  Shows how intentionally, or unintentionally, wider society cries out with the same voice: (11) Try not to cry when you listen to this cover of FIX YOU by Coldplay – YouTube

 

  1. “What a friend”– Matt Maher – modern take on this traditional hymn: (11) Matt Maher – What a Friend (Official Lyric Video) – YouTube

 

Videos/DVD:

  1. “Talk by John O’Donohue – Anam Cara (Soul Friendship) – given at Greenbelt: (11) John O’Donohue at Greenbelt – YouTube

 

6.   “Anam Cara (Soul Friendship)”: reflective video set to Celtic  beautifully inspired music: (11) ANAM CARA ~ Aeone – YouTube

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Service for Sunday 10th January – The Baptism of Jesus

Bible Readings for Epiphany 1: The Baptism of Jesus:

Click the links that take you straight to the text (CTRL and “Left Click”) if that helps:

Genesis 1:1-5 – Genesis 1:1-5 NIVUK – The beginning – In the beginning God – Bible Gateway  – the very beginning of the Bible indicating how Baptism is symbolic not just of individual “new birth” but in Jesus’ case a “new birth” of all Creation.

Acts 19:1-7 –  Acts 19:1-7 NIVUK – Paul in Ephesus – While Apollos was at – Bible Gateway – Paul in this passage clearly makes a distinction between “the baptism of John” and “the baptism of Jesus:” one for repentance and knowledge about God, the other to enter into relationship and to share in His life.

Mark 1:4-11 – Mark 1:4-11 NIVUK – And so John the Baptist appeared in the – Bible Gateway – this short passage is full of imagery and symbolism linking together so many Old Testament passages of hopes and dreams.  At its hear however, is the idea that because “the one who will come after me” (words John himself uses) was the foretold Messiah – the link is that the word “Messiah” technically means “the Anointed One,” the Priest, the one who stands as a ‘bridge’ between the people and God.  Therefore, because Jesus is received into sonship and has the Holy Spirit bestowed upon Him by God, so too have we.

Remarkable.  And we will be looking into what this means today in our worship.

Traditional Hymns and Songs:

  1. “Spirit of God” (The Skye Boat Song):

–   cover version by Spatz auf dem Dach (simple clean female folk solo) with Lyrics: (137) Spirit of God (The Skye Boat Hymn) – Lyric-Video | Spatz auf dem Dach – YouTube

  1. “Will you come and follow me if I but call your name” (The Summons): by John Bell (Iona Community)

–   Cover version by St Michael’s Church, Verwood in Dorset with lyrics: (137) Will you come and follow me – YouTube

3.    “Guide me O Thou great Jehovah” (Cwm Rhondda – Guide me O Thou great Redeemer):

– cover version by the Morriston Orpheus Welsh Male Voice Choir,  very moving and powerful: (137) Cwm Rhondda (Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah) – Côr OrpheusTreforys/ Morriston Orpheus Choir – YouTube

  1. “Come let us sing of a wonderful love”:
  1. “All over the world the Spirit is moving” – cover by Squirrel 24 – version with lyrics. As Dinah says, “Impossible not to feel cheered up by doing a jig, sing, clap along with – singing accompanied by jaunty brass band, great rhythm.”  Link: (137) All Over The World The Spirit Is Moving – YouTube
  2. “It is well with my soul” – great version of this good old Sankey hymn, speaking of accepting God’s love into my life. Fits very well as a musical accompaniment with making the “Covenant Promise.” With lyrics: (137) It Is Well With My Soul – YouTube

Modern:

  1. “You Say” by Lauren Daigle – now over 190M views – one of the most successful songs not only of the Christian world but of YouTube itself:
  1. “Who am I” originally by Cast Crowns. Speaks of trusting in God’s promise of His love and our willingness then to submit:
  1. “Fix You” originally by Cold Play. Amazing cover by “Fearless Soul” – as good, if not better than the original: (137) Try not to cry when you listen to this cover of FIX YOU by Coldplay – YouTube
  1. “Baptized” Zach Williams, the earthy Country Gospel singer and worship leader, describes what it was like for him to reflect on his experience of baptism: (137) Zach Williams – “Baptized” Rescue Story Tour Live Session – YouTube
  1. “Something in the water” – by Carrie Underwood singing about the change that she went through by discovering a new life in Christ. Lyrics version: (137) Something in the Water- Carrie Underwood (lyrics) – YouTube

 

Videos/DVD:

  1. There are two good “Sergio and Rhoda” videos about Baptism from a Jewish perspective:
  • The first is from “Yardenit,” the “official Baptism site” for Israel, and gives an indication of how personal and powerful a person’s Baptism can be. Link: (137) Baptized in the Jordan River – YouTube
  • The second is from “Qasr el Yahud,” the most likely historical site of where Jesus was baptised, only recently re-opened after the clearing of mines. Speaks of the layers of Old Testament meaning of why the Baptism of Jesus needed to take place here:  (137) Baptism of Jesus in Jordan River – YouTube

13.           Tabernacle: A third very good video that helps to explain how these two videos and their meaning go together – see “Sergio and Rhoda Tabernacle of Moses Replica in Timna Park,” way down south where Solomon had his copper mines.  Jesus is the High Priest who not only enters the Holy of Holies (beyond the curtain) but who tears the curtain in two so we all can enter the Holy of Holies with Him and so receive sonship and daughtership from God.  See Link: (137) Tabernacle of Moses Replica in Timna Park – YouTube 

  1. “Melody Joy Cloud – her experience with American Idol” remarkable young lady and witness to her faith: (137) MY AMERICAN IDOL EXPERIENCE (w/pictures) – YouTube
  1. “The Chosen” – Episode “The Shepherds” is the Christmas Special that started this worldwide phenomenon. “The Chosen” can be obtained for free, either via YouTube (simply type in “The Chosen” or via an App, which can be downloaded to your Smartphone or Tablet.

Its all very exciting.  Details of how to find “The Shepherds” on YouTube: (127) The Chosen: The Shepherd (Pilot Episode) – YouTube

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Service for Sunday 13th December – Third Sunday of Advent

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Reading:

If you would like to look up the reading for yourself – simply click the link:

For John 21:15-22: John 21:15-22 NIVUK – Jesus reinstates Peter – When they had – Bible Gateway

Set Readings for today (Third Sunday of Advent):

Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-end – One of the most “hope filled” and beautiful passages not just of the Old Testament but of the whole Bible.  The chapter begins with words that have become famous because they are quoted word for word by Jesus Himself as the passage of Scripture He chose from the whole of the Old Testament when He was asked to read at the Synagogue in Nazareth.  Not only does it speak a message of God bringing about new life and hope – like summer following winter, it is particularly important to note it is God’s Messiah who will bring this about.  When Jesus then quotes it what is He then saying about Himself when He says, famously, “today, in your hearing these words have been fulfilled.” (Luke 4:14-30)     

1Thessalonians 5:16-24 – Paul is writing his closing comments to his first letter to the little Church in Thessalonica.  What is striking is not just that he asks the congregation to remain faithful against all the odds, it’s the fact that he goes on to say, “The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do this.”  Its wonderful to think, not just in Paul’s day, but also in ours, and in every day, God and Jesus remain faithful to their calling, even when perhaps we fall short.  They are always 24/7 every day, every year, committed to saving and redeeming love.  Perhaps our own faithfulness would have been better encouraged if greater attention had been drawn to such faithfulness rather than some of the fear tactics and the “hell fire and damnation” preaching that has been spoken by ministers and others instead, however well intentioned.              

John 1:6-8, 19-28 – The introduction by John the Gospel author of the great character John the Baptist, the one Christians see as both cousin and forerunner to Jesus.  Interestingly, in Jewish history at the time John was seen as an even bigger deal than Jesus.  Josephus, the first century historian devotes a whole chapter to John and his message whereas he devotes only half a page to Jesus of Nazareth.  Partly, this is because John stood far more starkly as a ‘political’ threat to the establishment, offering an alterative path in open condemnation of the Temple and the Temple authorities, drawing people to believe and hope for an interjection by God Himself to bring His Messiah, in other words a new King to Israel.

Of course, when Jesus comes to fulfil all that John had spoken of, He was to do this in a way Josephus and the rulers of this world did not understand, and have not understood, ever since.  And yet, the ‘Jesus way’ has had the power to call to account and to challenge the power dynamic and status quo of our world more than anything else in the whole of history.  There is a wonderful Chinese saying, “what changes rock most?  Not other rock.  No, water.  It’s just that it takes a very long time.”

Come Lord Jesus and build a new world in our day as we emerge from the painful and very difficult time.

 

Hymns and Songs for Third Sunday for Advent:

Traditional:

  1. Advent wouldn’t be Advent without the ‘classic’ “O come, O come, Emmanuel” and we are playing it to introduce our service all four Sundays in Advent.

 

 

  1. “In the Lord, I’ll be ever thankful” – from the Taize community, an ecumenical international community in Southern France. There are many versions of their songs and chants sung all over the world:

 

  1. “Servant King” – otherwise known as “From heaven you came” by Graham Kendrick – a powerful classic for focusing on the nature of God and power:

 

  1. “Hills of the North Rejoice” Songs of Praise version with lyrics: (104) GORTON MONASTERY-HILLS OF NORTH REJOICE – YouTube

 

  1. “Hark my soul, it is the Lord” picking up the theme of our Bible Reading today from John 21. Thank you Dinah:

 

  1. “Awake, awake, fling off the night” – a great traditional hymn for Christmas and Epiphany. Here is an organ recital version from All Saints Church, Oystermouth in Swansea.  Sadly, there is yet to be a choral version recorded to YouTube with the words but thank you Dinah for sending this in: (104) Awake Awake Fling Of The Night: All Saints Church Oystermouth Swansea! – YouTube

 

Modern:

On the theme of Advent Joy:

  1. “Joy, joy, joy” by Rend Collective. Great lyrics talking about find Advent hope and joy even in the face of a canvas of darkness.  With Lyrics and thanks to Rend Collective for letting all Churches use their material copyright free during this time: (104) “Joy” from Rend Collective (OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO) – YouTube

 

  1. “Gaudete” is a 16th cent Christmas Carol set to a folk tune that was made famous in the 70’s by Steeleye Span. This cover version by the 15yr old Lydia Gerrard captured our attention because her was a young lady willing to take something of her background in Church out into the community and sing on an open stage in Westfield Shopping Centre in the heart of London.  Good on her: (104) Lydia Gerrard singing Gaudete by Steeleye Span – YouTube

In case you were wondering what the Lyrics meant:

Gaudete, Gaudete!
Christus et natus
Ex maria virgine,
Gaudete!

Rejoice, Rejoice!
Christ is born
Of the virgin Mary,
Rejoice!

Tempus ad est gratiae,
Hoc quod optabamus;
Carmina laetitiae,
Devote redamus.

It is now the time of grace
That we have desired;
Let us sing songs of joy,
Let us give devotion.

Deus homo factus est,
Natura mirante;
Mundus renovatus est
A Christo regnante.

God was made man,
And nature marvels;
The world was renewed
By Christ who is King.

Ezechiellis porta
Clausa pertransitur;
Unde lux est orta
Salus invenitur.

The closed gate of Ezekiel
Has been passed through;
From where the light rises
Salvation is found.

Ergo nostra cantio,
Psallat iam in lustro;
Benedicat Domino:
Salus Regi nostro.

Therefore let our assembly now sing,
Sing the Psalms to purify us;
Let it praise the Lord:
Greetings to our King.

Amazing and beautiful lyrics so apt for this time too. Thank you Kirsty for sending these across.

  1. “The Hope of Christmas” by Matthew West which he released in Nov 2020 written specifically this Christmas. Official Video: (104) Matthew West – The Hope of Christmas (Official Music Video) – YouTube

 

  1. “Joyful, joyful” classic climax to one of the great films capturing the Gospel Hope – “Sister Act 2” with Whoopi Goldberg. Gets everyone’s feet tapping.  Areal feel good moment: (104) Sister Act 2 (Finale) Lauryn Hill – Joyful Joyful With Lyrics (Ft. Whoopi Goldberg) – YouTube

 

  1. “I am loved” by Mack Brock. Speaking about God’s acceptance and how God’s love and power turn the world’s values and judgements upside down and shows how they are found wanting in comparison to the awesome love of God. Great lyrics: (104) Mack Brock – I Am Loved (Official Lyric Video) – YouTube

 

  1. “God so loved” – by We the Kingdom. Taking the words of John 3:16 the lyrics speak of God’s liberating love.  Great use of video footage. Sows how we live in such a multi-sensory world and the video also makes such a contribution to worship: (104) We The Kingdom – God So Loved (Lyric Video) – YouTube

 

  1. “A God like you” by Kirk Franklin. This song was made famous by Michelle Obama who spoke about how she includes this song in her workout Playlist when she gave her autobiographical interview.  Speaks of how God’s love is such a different understanding of what power truly means. Great Lyrics version: (104) Kirk Franklin – A God Like You (Lyric Video) – YouTube

 

Videos/DVD:

  1. “The Chosen” – Episode 1 – the worldwide phenomenon which is the world crowd funded TV adaptation of the Life of Jesus called “The Chosen.” Series 1 has already been released and funding for Series 2 is just about complete and due to be released over the Christmas period.

“The Chosen” can be obtained for free, either via YouTube (simply type in “The Chosen” or via an App, which can be downloaded to your Smartphone or Tablet.

Its all very exciting.  Details of how to find Episode 1 on YouTube: (92) The Chosen: Complete Episode One – YouTube

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Service for Sunday 15th November – Second Sunday before Advent

Traditional:

  1. “Amazing Grace” – a version released only a couple of days ago by Andrea Bocelli and Alison Krauss.  Part of his new album “Believe.” I could not believe how many version of this three hundred year old hymn there actually are.  A true classic:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60euxXvw5aA

 

  1. “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!” – speaking of the joy and freedom of embracing Christ. Songs of Praise version with lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bon0S8_oq0w

 

  1. “Love Divine, all love’s excelling” – continuing the theme of the joy of the relationship we have in Christ. This version with Lyrics from the Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey reminds us of a freedom to belong to something (the Commonwealth) rather than simply seeking freedom from things.  A ‘family of friendly nations’ as the Queen calls it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0gvCODgV1fc

 

  1. “You laid aside you majesty” – speaks of the cost of the gift of our freedom, with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFICAbIxv_M

 

  1. “There is a Redeemer” – the thankfulness that comes out of recognising the freedom Jesus has won for us and for the world. Songs of Praise version with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0LA3GvAUGU

 

Intercessions:

  1. “Go down Moses” – American African spiritual. Sung and played by the great Louis Armstrong: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JNCS27rtQ8

 

Children’s songs:

  1. “When the Spirit of the Lord is in my heart” – reminds us of the gift of freedom to sing and to dance. Lovely version by three Catholic sisters with actions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYrNXZtWw4Y

 

  1. “The Spirit lives to set us free” – great schools version by a clearly multitalented musical Catholic priest – great to sing along to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzU9Dv7ZXVY

 

  1. “This little light of mine” – great children’s song (see also Bruce Springsteen’s version later in the list): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKkbIZtqhyQ

 

 

Modern:

Freedom is a really important theme within much modern Church music and song writing, perhaps reflecting our times:

  1. “Freedom is coming”” South African Spiritual by Bee Geesus (song made popular by John Bell and the Iona Community): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zt9Y7q3zv30

 

11.           “Rescuer” (The Good News) – by Rend Collective.  Speaks of the freedom on offer to the world: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAg7rn7fH3Q

 

  1. “This is Amazing Grace” – by Phil Wickham: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAg7rn7fH3Q

 

  1. “This little light of mine” – unusual choice of Bruce Springsteen to close his concert in Dublin in 2006. Here with the Sessions Band.  Full of energy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0qAYq1GVec

 

Videos/DVD:

  1. DVD “Cry Freedom” – Great account of the story of Steve Biko (a Soweto freedom activist and speaker) and Donald Woods (a South African journalist) who discover a great friendship and affinity in the face of a dark time in South African and world history. Very moving story.  Starring Denzel Washington.  Available from Amazon or to rent on Amazon Prime.
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Service for Remembrance Sunday

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for Remembrance Day –

Sunday 8th Nov 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Reading:

Isaiah 40:28-31: “They will soar on wings like eagles” – If you would like to look up the reading for yourself – simply click the link:

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+40%3A28-31&version=NIVUK

Set Readings for today (Remembrance Sunday – 3rd before Advent):

Wisdom of Solomon 6:12-16 – The author speaks about the value and availability of Wisdom but one must look to her and seek her.  In the Old Testament is personified in other books such as the Book of Proverbs. In Christian understanding Jesus becomes the face of Wisdom, taking her qualities into himself.  Therefore as we read this passage one could say the same of Jesus as of Wisdom, He is making Himself available, to seek Him is to find not only perfect understanding but love itself.   

1Thessalonians 4:13-end – There is a lot that could be said about this passage.  At one level it can seem somewhat strange to us, what with images of being “caught up in the air.”  It starts off with the great hope – that because God raised Jesus from the dead, then God will raise all the dead including our loved ones.  But this is where the confusion perhaps kicks in.  Paul is not talking about life after death here, in a place we call “heaven.”  As Tom Wright, the New Testament historian and author has stipulated, Paul, and indeed much of the New Testament, talks mainly about “what happens after, what happens to us when we die.”  In other words, to the Bible the emphasis is on a time “after heaven,” what we would perhaps otherwise call “the Second Coming” as detailed in the Book of Revelation Ch 22.  In this understanding, as here in Paul, we die, we go to be with God and Jesus in heaven.  But then will come a day when heaven will come to earth and all things will be made new in Christ, beginning with raising those who are physically dead in Christ to be reborn in Christ on earth, wedding their spiritual bodies in heaven with new ‘resurrected’ physical bodies to live for ever.  And this also includes those, says Paul, who are alive when this time comes – hence the reference to being caught up, and ‘transformed’/resurrected themselves in the air.  This may all sound hugely confusing, but it is what the Bible consistently claims.  What will it look like? How will it work out?  The Bible doesn’t give us a blueprint but its key and important point is that “Love wins,” not just in heaven, “but on earth.”  And everything that points to that is part of what Jesus calls “the Kingdom.”     

Matthew 25:1-13 – Matthew continues the talk about the “Kingdom of heaven.”  Not so much, about what happens when you die, but more about all those moments we all experience each and everyday when we can see the opportunity to love, to forgive, to be kind and we either see them and take them, or we can miss them and complain bitterly that we were away getting oil to get ready to see those moments in the future.  Jesus those who are about love now.  To love, is to love Him.

Hymns and Songs for Remembrance Sunday:

Traditional:

  1. “O God our help in ages past” –Songs of Praise version for Remembrance with lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjdmLstpNGE
  • “O Valiant hearts” – a hymn specific to Remembrance – sung and played here by Gordon Pullin, who used to be organist at Banwell and lead Congresbury Singers, now organist at All Saints, Weston.  Lovely to see his face again: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oD5VlacTteE
  • “Guide me O Thou great (Redeemer) Jehovah” (also known as Cwm Rhondda) – lovely version sung by a Welsh Male Voice Choir at the Hospital in Rhondda for “Dementia Week” in 2019.  In my view, how it is meant to be sung, with passion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7iX5WhJadk
  • “All people that on earth do dwell” – Songs of Praise version from the 100th Anniversary at the Royal Albert Hall with combined choirs, which is sort of apt given the message of the hymn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NC5FfEavPM4
  1. “National Anthem” – from St Paul’s Cathedral – Diamond Jubilee Service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3dR7u7TPNo

Children and Young People:

  1. “What does a poppy mean?” – wonderful video explaining how a young person approaches Remembrance to share with children and adults everywhere: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7ESRBMk36E&feature=youtu.be

Modern:

  1. “You are my Vision”” by Rend Collective – speaking of a future vision with God at the centre.  Based on the tradition Irish hymn “Be Thou my vision” that has stood the test of time and is as popular today as it has always been (Live Version): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQNczm45GyY
  1. “The Call” (No need to say Goodbye) – by the Poppy Girls – at the Royal Festival of Remembrance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6vxn1IJ0Uo&feature=youtu.be

Videos:

  1. “80th Anniversary of Battle of Britain” – Flypast of Spitfires and Hurricane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMhiJTob4w8
  1. “Pilot reunited with his Spitfire” – story of a great reunion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhxFoH4JQ7w
  1. “Story of the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior” – helpful to understand its significance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tN06NctDdTA
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Remembrance Sunday (8th Nov) and Armistice (Wed 11th Nov) in Congresbury and Banwell:

As you will appreciate things are going to need to be a little different this year.

There will be a Remembrance Sunday Service in both Villages on Remembrance Sunday:

  • Congresbury at 10.30am
  • Banwell at 3.00pm

Unfortunately, we are not able to have the usual parade by members of the community and by the Uniformed Organisations, and the service will need to be limited to a very small number of invited participants. But we will be Livestreaming both services through the New Creation Facebook Page and also the Love Banwell and Love Congresbury pages.

You can access the Services by watching LIVE via the Facebook pages

Congresbury at 10.30am: –

www.facebook.com/NewCreationChurches

www.facebook.com/LoveCongresbury

Banwell at 3pm:-

www.facebook.com/NewCreationChurches

www.facebook.com/lovebanwell

or catch up later via Facebook, the New Creation website: https://www.newcreationchurches.org.uk/  or New Creation YouTube Channel : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXn34qIXlXBeOAmO1M1KbBw/

Armistice Day – Wednesday 11th Nov at 11.00am:

  • Congresbury – we will be livestreaming a short service from outside the War Memorial Hall. Unfortunately, we cannot invite people to join us as this is subject to ‘the rule of six’. We will be gathering at 10.45 and will be livestreaming to both the New Creation and Love Congresbury Facebook Pages.
  • facebook.com/NewCreationChurches
  • facebook.com/LoveCongresbury
  • Banwell – there will be a small service outside the Church in the Churchyard at 10.50am led by the British Legion.
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Service for the Last Sunday after Trinity

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 20th Sunday of Trinity –

16th Sunday of Re-opening – A New Church for a New Society:

“Themes in John’s Gospel.”

  • Spirituality – Part B: Sharing the Love like an ever-flowing stream (John 20:1-31)

Sunday 25th Oct 2020

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Reading:

John 20:1-31:  If you would like to look up the reading for yourself – simply click the link:

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+20%3A1-31&version=NIVUK

Set Readings for today (Bible Sunday):

Nehemiah 8:1-4a, 8-12 – The Lost Book, which this passage from Nehemiah refers to is the book we know today as the Book of Deuteronomy, which includes many of the teachings and speeches of Moses.  Basing their life around the Word of God was seen as a great comfort, a great joy, and a great strength as well as a challenge and a sacrifice.

Colossians 3:12-17 –  Paul, in his writing to the little Church in Colossae continues this theme of basing a shared life around the life and teachings of God.  What he adds is to depth and richness that can gained by seeing this engagement less as one of spiritual ‘lessons’ or ‘teachings,’ and more about the engagement and relationship with the person of Jesus – not just in the past but also in the here and now, across time and space, as a ‘living’ reality achieved by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.   

Matthew 24:30-35 – Jesus takes up one of the great titles given by Jews and Greeks to the that which holds all things together – words.  In John’s Gospel, Jesus is described as THE Word, the Word from which all other words flow.  In other words, that/He who was before all words, is in all words, and is the culmination of all words.  In other places Jesus is described as the Alpha and the Omega (the first and last letter of the Greek alphabet), in other words, the first, last, and all letters in between of the whole alphabet and the whole of time.

Hymns and Songs for 20th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

  1. “There is a Hope” – by Stuart Townend, with Lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_yv5yGZnBc

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

During Communion:

Song for the Children:

  1. “Atanikomboa (He will deliver me)” – by Christafari, a Christian Reggae Band, great song to dance to and share in the actions with: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucAeRCXln2U

Modern:

During the Service:

  1. “Help us to love.” – by Tori Kelly: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5izPEZNz1bs&feature=youtu.be

After the Livestream:

  1. “From now on” – From the Musical “The Greatest Showman”:– https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyIDxpUJ10Q

Other songs:

  1. “Give me your eyes” by Brandan Heath: Britain’s Got Talent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5AkNqLuVgY
14.         “Your Love Never Fails & Try” – Anthony Skinner & the Immersion Family Band: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEquqQI3WwA
  1. “God’s Great Dance Floor” – Chris Tomlin (Live Version at Passion 2013) – great dance song. Turn up the volume and go for it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-WOneEXr00

Videos:

  1. From last week, but just as relevant and inspirational for this: “Holiness” – by the Bible Project gives a very good description of Ezek 47 and Rev 22 as a metaphor of God’s great dream of a healed and transformed world: