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Live service for Sunday 5th July – 4th Sunday after Trinity

Click here to view the service streamed live at 10.30am on Sunday 5th July

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 4th Sunday of Trinity –

“A New Church for a New Age (Part 4):

The work of the Spirit to inspire and provide a ‘Blueprint’ for the Church in Mark ch1 – part of the focus for “40 Days on the Life and work of the Spirit” – by Jack Levison

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Reading:

Mark ch1: 1 – 45 – Mark is unique in beginning his Gospel account of Jesus from the point of Jesus’ baptism rather than from the point of Jesus’ birth.  In doing so, Mark is trying to tell us something, something about the sort of person Jesus is and also the people we are called to be, to offer love and compassion for a broken world and to do so through the guidance and sustenance of the Holy Spirit.  We are going to explore this further in our service today. (See also the Bible text itself and notes below for download with highlighted passages)

Bible-Reading-for-Today-Mark-1Download

Supporting Text:

The following are the two parts of Jesus’ great commission – King and Servant, taken from the words God spoke over Him at His  baptism in the river Jordan, “You are my Son, who I love, in you I am well pleased.” (Mark ch1:11).

The first part of this famous saying comes from,

Psalm 2 – from which we get the lines, “You are my son [my daughter], who I love” (Psalm 2:7) and which points us to the anointing and the responsibility of a monarch, a King or a Queen for his/her people.

And the second part of the saying comes from,

Isaiah chs 42-53 – where Isaiah reveals a strange but hugely significant character known as “The Servant,” or as Isaiah 53 records “the Suffering Servant.” From Isaiah 42:1 we get the lines, “with you I am well pleased” but maybe read especially Isaiah ch53.  It is both unique and incredibly insightful and prophetic.

Set Readings for today:

Zachariah 9:9-12 – this passage from Zachariah is the famous prophecy that “when the King comes, he will come riding on a donkey, on a colt the foal of a donkey.”  Words, of course, Jesus fulfilled when He rode into Jerusalem hundreds of years later.

Romans 7:15-25 – Paul wrestles with one of the great problems we can have as human beings, let alone as Christians, in that why is it we can know what is good for us, we can know what is the ‘right’ thing to do, yet we choose to do different, sometimes even the opposite.  Paul wrestles with himself and his inner conscience in and through this passage – isn’t great therefore to discover we’re not alone? We too can struggle to live out our internal desire to follow Christ even when it is tough and full of self-doubt. 

Matthew 11:16-19, 25-end – Jesus describes to His audience how fickle people can be – some complaining about John the Baptist and his ministry, others criticising and contrasting him for “not being more like John the Baptist,” almost the day after.  And yet, in amongst our blindness, hardness of heart, and our easy judgementalism, Jesus speaks out these words, “Come to me, all you that are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I shall give them rest.”

Jesus lifts people out of the situations they are in, even if they are of their own making, and seeks to set them out on the road in the sure and certain knowledge they are a ‘forgiven people.’

Against all odds, Jesus chooses this moment to reveal His true identity to the world and the enormity of what these words would truly cost Him.

Hymns and Songs for 4th Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

  1. TRY AND LISTEN TO THIS – the well-known classic, that captures so well King and Servant from Graham Kendrick “From heaven you came, helpless babe”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rh4xEvMVQQ
  • See also a live version by Graham Kendrick himself at a “Songs of Praise” concert from the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey (1996):
  • Graham Kendrick talking himself about what inspired him to write this song – fascinating insight into the work of the Spirit in and through one of this country’s most popular singer/songwriters:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuCNzWvmycE
  • “We are marching in the light of God” (Siyahamba) – here is a very colourful medley version.  Hard for anyone not to smile and even to start tapping or dancing to the beat.  We all need to have our spirits lifted: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fi-zd2k8wgQ

Song for Refection:

Thank you again to Liz Chappell and her grandsons, Hugh and Toby who have kindly recorded their version of John Stainer “I saw the Lord” (based on Isaiah 6)  – https://youtu.be/P0fMtJl3uqU

Modern Music:

  • The calling and life story of Taya Smith – one of the lead singers and worship leaders of “Hillsong” (an international if not a worldwide worship phenomenon) – her remarkable story of humble inspiration and servant ministry –-   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfgW9gUyiRs
  1. “King of Kings” – Hillsong (Acoustic Version) – recorded Mar this year (2020): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl7ckz0iPoU
  1. And from our young people a film clip and song called “Touched by an Angel – Psalm 151” – a power testimony to song, love and prayer.  Thank you for this:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmpiWLiQkxo&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR27km4KL1WQ3OWOGc2U-qGzrm_uYpz_LeY8nQECQxOomIPGYNgYQZiLkaw
  1. Lastly, “I will follow” – Chris Tomlin – https://youtu.be/R3NRyV9vKl0

Videos:

  1.  Thinking of the role of Kingship – probably the closest we know to such a spectacle is the Coronation.  In a rare interview the Queen revealed something of what it was like to be her on such a great occasion:
  2. A short piece about wearing the Crown – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPyNxoVJsr4
  3. An American news piece which talks to the English commentator who interviewed the Queen and describes her qualities (recorded in 2018 when Harry and Megan were based in the UK):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WX8S_Y3ZiZM
  • And my personal favourite, which captures the Queens spirit of both servanthood and fun was the epic arrival and opening the Queen gave to the Olympics in 2012.  Interestingly, the helicopter used on this memorable occasion was flown by Peter Hall of Iwood Manor in Congresbury.  Enjoy:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AS-dCdYZbo
  1. Isaiah ch53 – the “Suffering Servant” – Here are two separate interviews given by Jewish people for an organisation called “One for Israel,” and each explains how Isaiah ch53 (the Suffering Servant) is central to them and to their story as Jewish people who became believers in Yeshua (Jesus).  Amazing and humbling testimonies:
  2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCodbesGNBg
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Live Stream Church for Sunday: “Continuing the story of being a new Church for a New Age – “the inspiration and ‘blueprint’ of Mark ch1” plus an AGAPE CELEBRATION – part of the journey of walking for 40 days with the Holy Spirit – 10.30am

Last week, we looked at the rich story that lies behind the image of Hope “the Tree of Jesse” offers us in Isaiah ch11 and 12.  This week, we are going to explore how Mark, in his opening chapter about the life and ministry of Jesus, Mark ch1, gives us both inspiration and a bit of a ‘blueprint’ as to what some of the key qualities a Church could include as we emerge from Lockdown.  This follows from the fact that two of our readings this week in our “Daily Blog,” looking at the life and work of the Holy Spirit, have also come from Mark ch1.

PLUS

An Opportunity to “Share an AGAPE CELEBRATION together” as part of our Livestream Service.  All you will need is:

  • Some Bread – this can be an ordinary bread from around the house, or you may wish to make some; maybe some pitta bread, a bread roll, something gluten free? – This can be a great activity to do with others.
  • Some grapes or fruit of some kind – which can be for you ‘the Fruit of the Earth,’ whatever you have to hand.
  • And a glass of water or whatever is your favourite drink.

Look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday.

And afterwards, join us for the ‘Virtual’ Coffee Morning and catch up.  Afterwards, why not join us for the next of our ‘virtual’ Coffee and catch up?  See the “New Creation Facebook Page” for details of how to join.

Matt

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Live Service for Sunday 28th June – 3rd Sunday after Trinity

Click here to watch the service streamed live at 10.30am on Sunday 28th June – the 3rd Sunday after Trinity.

Click here to watch a special musical performance from Liz, Toby and Hugh.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 3rd Sunday of Trinity –

“A New Church for a New Age (Part 3):

the story of the work of the Spirit in “The Shoot out of the Stump of Jesse” in Isaiah ch 11 and ch 12 – part of the focus for

“40 Days on the Life and work of the Spirit” – by Jack Levison

Bible Readings:

Key Bible Reading:

Isaiah ch 11 and 12 – the beginning of this passage is well-known because it is often read at Carol Services, but today we are going to look at the whole text.

It is made up of four parts:

  • “The Shoot that will come out of the stump of Jesse” (vs 1-5) – upon whom the Spirit of the Lord will rest – this part of the passage has always been seen as referring to Jesus.
  • The impact this ‘shoot’ has upon the world will be to bring healing and hope to the world (see vs 11-16) and is symbolised by the images of the hoped for ‘harmony of Creation’ (vs 6-9).
  • Key as to how this will all come about is vs 10, “In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his resting-place will be glorious.”  What is this root? The true Tree of Jesse – The Cross.
  • The song of joy and praise on the lips of those who understand the implication of this mystery and victory – the means of salvation the world and the Devil will never understand or overcome.  Such is the wisdom, the power and the glory of our God (Ch 12 vs 1-6)

All this because “the Spirit of the Lord rested upon Him – the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of inward strength, the Spirit of the knowledge of the Lord and of true godliness – and He will delight in the love of the Lord.” (Isaiah ch 11:2-3).

Supporting Text:

Ephesians 6:10-13 – Putting on the whole armour of God and to stand – this is a well-known passage and can so easily inspire strength and protection, whereas in fact, it is meant to be a call to walk the way of vulnerability and to hold fast to the person and character of Christ.

In that sense Eph ch6 is for forerunner to the adage – “WWJD” – “What would Jesus do?”  And it is the Holy Spirit that can help us to reach out and indeed hold fast for this.

Set Readings for today:

Jeremiah 28:5-9 – Jeremiah speaks out not just of events to come but of a “Prophet” who will bring true peace – that prophet has come in the person of Jesus.

Romans 6:12-end – Paul’s contrasts very starkly the choices we make – towards a life lived by sin and death or towards a life lived by grace and eternal life.  We are called from one to the other.

Matthew 10:40-end – continuing on from last week, Jesus teaches all worldly honour and honour systems are nothing in comparison the reward those who show Acts Kindness will receive from the Lord who sees all, including the intentions of the human heart.

Hymns and Songs for 3rd Sunday after Trinity:

Traditional:

  1. TRY AND LISTEN TO THIS – “Gwahoddiad – I hear Thy Welcome Voice” – Songs of Praise – this less well-known hymn outside of Wales captures so clearly the mystery and yet the deep meaning of the true Tree of Jesse – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucbPZW446Cc
  • “Only Boys Aloud” came to popular acclaim through their appearance on “Britain’s Got Talent” – they embody the spirit of our reading today, finding hope and purpose out of adversity – here is the recording that shot them to fame -“Calon Lan,” this song that they sing was originally composed as a hymn in the 1890’s but has become part of Welsh identity – I detail below the beauty of their poetry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AARrVAHnkdY

Calon Lân English Translation

I don’t ask for a luxurious life
the world’s gold or its fine pearls,
I ask for a happy heart,
an honest heart, a pure heart.

A pure heart full of goodness
Is fairer than the pretty lily,
None but a pure heart can sing,
Sing in the day and sing in the night.

If I wished for worldly wealth,
It would swiftly go to seed;
The riches of a virtuous, pure heart
Will bear eternal profit.

(Chorus)

Evening and morning, my wish
Rising to heaven on the wing of song
For God, for the sake of my Saviour,
To give me a pure heart.

Song for Refection:

  • A shorter version with lyrics

Modern Music:

Really been getting into Kirk Franklin following recommending two of his songs from last week.  This week two more:

  • “Strong God” – this was just released on 1st June and speaks into the #Black Lives Matter campaign in America and around the world.  WARNING: language is ok, but the video does contain some strong images – not suitable for younger children.

Adults/Parents PLEASE check you are happy first before showing to your young people.  At the same time, video is how many Black Young People see things, so good to be informed – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dnl9ZvrM_yQ

  1. “Lean on Me” – I wasn’t going to include this because it’s another song by Kirk Franklin, so wanted to find something different.  But each time came back to it – such an inspiring version and video, finding the God of Hope in amongst the trials and pain of it all.  No wonder 64M hits –   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXBKaOkmQhw

Videos:

  1. “Sergio and Rhoda – Nazareth Village” – although this short video doesn’t show an actual Olive Tree with the new growth coming from its stump (although we saw one for ourselves when we were there ourselves in 2018), this whole project embodies the spirit of Isaiah ch 11 and 12 – refusing to lie down and born to bring hope that is distinctive and a wonderful authentic witness not just to Israel, but to the whole Christian world – there’s nowhere quite like it – and I think Kirsty would quite literally love to be a tour guide here –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyDyIyn-yRE

Films:

  1. “Brassed Off” – At first this does not seem a particularly ‘Christian’ film, there is no mention of God or of a person who is a Christian character within it.  But like the Book of Ruth it is full of God’s Spirit, especially in the way is gives a practical example and demonstration to all that we have been talking about today.

Set in the coal mining villages of North Yorkshire during the mining shutdown of the 80’s and 90’s, it follows the life of the Grimley Colliery Band and of some of the characters within it as they discover “what really matters.”

PLEASE NOTE: To PARENTS – It is a 15Cert – it does deal with some strong scenes, and does have some strong language in places.  At the same time it is both endearing and a wonderful caricature of both mining life and of the humour and pain of these times.   

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Service for the Second Sunday of Trinity

Click here to see the video of the service that was live streamed at 10.30 am on Sunday 21st June.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for 2nd Sunday of Trinity –

“A New Church for a New Age (Part 2):

the story of The Tabernacle/the Tent of Meeting in Exodus ch40 and the story of Jesus in John’s Gospel – the links and the re-interpretation all by the power of the Spirit – part of the focus for “40 Days on the Life and work of the Spirit” – by Jack Levison

Key Bible Reading:

Exodus ch 40 – the detailed description of the Tabernacle – The Tent of Meeting that the Israelites constructed in accordance to God’s word and then carried with them throughout their time in the wilderness wherever they were sent to go.

Made up of the three parts:

  • God’s instruction to Moses (vs 1-16)
  • Moses fulfilling what God had said to him (vs 17-33)
  • God’s glory, in the form of a cloud, (vs 34-38) hovers over the Tent, day and night just as the Spirit hovered over the face of Creation in the beginning of time (Genesis ch1: vs2). 

I AM Sayings of Jesus in John’s Gospel (and where to look them up):

I AM the Bread of Life – John 6:35

I AM the Light of the World – John 8:12

I AM the gate [door] for the Sheep – John 10:7 (repeated John 10:9)

I AM the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the Sheep –   John 10:11

I AM the Resurrection and the Life [Baptism] – John 11:25 and 26

I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me – John 14:6

I AM the true Vine. My Father is the Gardener – John 15:1 and 15:6 – I AM the Vine. You are the branches.

The importance of I AM sayings of God: See Exodus ch3 vs 14 – Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3:1-14)

“I AM who I AM” -(‘Elohiym) or Elohiem within Hebrew tradition.

As there is no present tense as such in Hebrew grammar, a literal translation of this short but vitally important phrase is: “I am, I was, and I will be.”

Another aspect of the translation would be to say, “I AM, without equal.”

The Veil: At the very moment when Jesus died, according to Matthew’s Gospel, writing to a Jewish community possibly in Jerusalem, he says, “At that very moment the curtain of the Temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split 52 and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life.” (Matt ch27 vs 51-52 – the Story of the Cross)

Hymns and Songs for 2nd Sunday after Trinity:

The key theme today is about God’s faithfulness to us, in Jesus and by the power of the Spirit, willing to meet with us wherever we are, and willing and longing to transform our lives, if we will but see.

Please see:

  1. “Be Thou my Vision” – a tune and arrangement I haven’t heard before – sung by Hugh, Toby, and Ollie Davis (all three of Liz Chappell’s grandchildren in St Andrew’s Church, Congresbury yesterday) –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXy2rBSZrU0&feature=youtu.be

These three versions of the same song capture very much what we are looking at today as a working out of God’s Spirit.  We can say, “we like this one,” or “that one.”  But can we see how God loves all of them and blesses all His people through the same words over the centuries.  Difference and diversity are something to be celebrated not constrained.

Traditional:

  1. “Before the Throne of God above” – although we had this last week, it perfectly describes this meeting place with the great Creator God –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsvV2AAfTz0

For Reflection or Meditation:

  • “Pachebel’s Canon in D” – the Cello part in this well-known and much loved piece of music demonstrates the “Cantus Firmus” – the deep undertow and work of the Spirit in every generation – something we have looked at before and which lies at the heart not only of today’s passage, but can be seen in our world today – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=es_3F3TLJS0
  • “My Song is love unknown” – this is one of those hymns which it is worth pausing and letting the words speak to the heart and the soul of such love as this – the centre of Prayer and Praise – thinking of our Church Buildings opening up for Private Prayer again – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iv7OZSoA22w

Modern Music:

  • “He still loves me” – Beyonce and Walter Williams – wonderful video telling us and the world that even when we don’t thin k we are good enough “He [God] still loves me” – just what the world needs to here at the moment – Thanks to Hayley and Charlotte Nottage in Banwell for this – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-o1GCF5Xthc
  1. “The Lion and the Lamb” – Big Daddy Weave – picking up the theme of bending the knee – we kneel before the One who takes the pain and pride of the world to Himself out of love (Philippians 2:10) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xeLgkpcpM0
  1. “Lord I need you” – Chris Tomlin (65M views) a modern classic – speaking of our dependence upon God (our Tent) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rR_Rdb1CTE
  1. And to finish, Kirk Franklin is an amazing performer, singer, songwriter and arranger.  Two songs from him:
  2. “Our God is an Awesome God. He reigns” – Rare footage from a live concert – amazing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTN21C0py3M

Videos:

  1. “Sergio and Rhoda go to The Tabernacle in the Timna Park” – a re-enactment of the Tabernacle built deep in the south of Israel, part of the Timna National Park – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fcUVe6S4vg&t=2s
  1. “Exodus 40:1-16” (Seven I AMs) – Charlie (Pastor) from the Superior Word Church (approx. an hour) – for those who are really interested in this, Charlie is a font of Hebrew and Christian knowledge.  He is so informed and with so much to say, sometimes you have to just put your hat on, hold on, and just go for the ride – there’s a lot in this video –   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51t1YzXgjpU
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Live Service for Sunday 14th June – 1st Sunday after Trinity

Click here to watch the service that was streamed live on Sunday 14th June.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for Trinity Sunday –
“A New Church for a New Age:
the story of Peter and the message of hope in Cornelius (Acts Ch 10) – part of the focus for “40 Days on the Life and work of the Spirit.”

Bible Readings:
Key Bible Reading: Acts Ch 10:1-48 – the amazing story of the work of the Holy Spirit through Peter and Cornelius.
Supporting texts:
Galatians Ch 3:1-14 – Paul encourages the Christians in the Church at Galatia to trust in the promise of what Jesus has done for them and in the gift of the Spirit rather than trying to earn favour with God through works and through observing the Law. In so doing, he declares ALL people of faith, Jews and Gentiles, as open to receive the blessing given to Abraham.
Numbers 6:22-27 – The words of The Blessing given by God to Moses to be used by Aaron and his sons of how to bless the Israelites (and the people of God).

Set Readings for today:
Exodus 19:2-8a – God’s call to Moses and to the people from Mount Sinai.
Romans 5:1-8 – Paul’s account of how true peace comes from recognising what Christ has done for us and for the world.
Matthew 9:35-10:23 – Jesus sends out the twelve to preach the Good News of the Kingdom.

Hymns and Songs for 1st Sunday after Trinity:
The key theme today is Blessing, so if you do not have an opportunity to listen to anything else please, please see:


1. “The Lord Bless you and keep you” – John Rutter – sung by Toby and Hugh Davis (Liz Chappell’s grandchildren in St Andrew’s Church, Congresbury yesterday)

https://youtu.be/1-zqD1SrfNQ

2. “The Blessing in Hebrew: Ha Bracha” – released by Joshua Aaron on Friday – praying God’s Blessing over Jerusalem – based on the well known original version by Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzqrWae5lK4

3. The Original Version of “The Blessing” – by Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes from Elevation Worship – I counted at least sixty nine versions of this available on YouTube in every language from Sweden to Australia, from Japan, to Russia, to Nepal, to South Korea, to QATAR, to Israel, to Europe, to America and Canada and Latin America, in Makaton, played by orchestras, violins, and sung by Virtual Choirs of ones and two to hundreds – a truly “GLOBAL SENSATION” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4
Important to Note: The words of BOTH versions of “The Blessing” (Rutter and Elevation Music) are the same – they are taken from the “Blessing given by God to Moses and to Aaron” (Numbers 6:24-26). It is also, historically, the Blessing always used by Francis of Assisi.

Traditional:
1. “Before the throne of God above” – a beautiful understanding of the richness of the Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MUNywhsZPU
2. “There is a Redeemer” – Keith Green – as we focus on the work of the Spirit – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUqfdaCLm0Y

3. “Make me a channel of your Peace” – very appropriate at the moment – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daGWdbrSGBM

4. “Breathe on me breath of God” – Seeking to be filled with the Spirit’s love – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmkzSjs9eAw

5. “When I survey the Wonderous Cross” – True grace comes from recognising all God has done for us in Christ – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_fvFfPqjO4

6. “Shine Jesus shine” – Graham Kendrick -asking God to not only bless this country but the world and bring His light into our darkness – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rce9UHYZwl4

Meditation – the number of versions of “The Blessing” – here is a short selection from the many available:
7. “The Blessing” – from Children from many different countries as a virtual Choir – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiWZXLsdE9w

8. “The Blessing” sung by two Healthcare Workers – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73wRe2oyjFQ

9. “The Blessing” sung and signed by the Makaton community – LOVE THIS – very humbling – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=va048-XxFTI

Modern Music:
10. “10,000 Reasons” – Matt Redman – Having a spirit of Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXDGE_lRI0E

11. “Waiting here for you” – Christy Nockels – beautiful song about waiting on God for His blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=em8EAHrW9fY

12. “The Hillsong Israel Tour from Caesarea” – A two hour marathon but with a powerful sermon and so many wellknown songs from the VERY PLACE where our Bible Story today is set – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bk16ReaOuXw

13. “Oceans – from Caesarea” – Hillsong – classic, with the Mediterranean Sea in the background – given the place the lyrics are just so appropriate – for Paul’s epic journey, for the Gospel’s and for ours – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVAR85rorvU

14. NEW SONG “Beautiful Stranger” – Rebecca St James – love the lyrics: “God, I hear You calling out to me in the voices of the least of these, calling me to reach beyond my world to the beautiful stranger” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zP8Uqs2PiE

Videos:
15. “Video that will change your life. I have no words left” – story of BEING the Blessing – as St Francis said, “Go out and preach the Gospel to all the nations, and if you have to, use words” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PT-HBl2TVtI

16. “Sergio and Rhoda got to Joppa (they call Jaffa) – and where the first part of our story took place – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkPEme9Zdqc&t=105s

17. “Sergio and Rhoda go to Caesarea Maritima” – the place where the other part of our Bible Story took place – and where both Peter and Paul visited – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJ71dph8qE8

Films:
18. “The Sultan and the Saint” – Can be bought via Amazon – £6.49 (Need to play on a Computer or Laptop as PAL – US)

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Live Stream for Trinity Sunday

Click here to watch the service that was steamed live for Trinity Sunday, Sunday 7th June.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for Trinity Sunday –
“The Life and Hope of God: based on Ezekiel Ch 37
– and in light of events in America”

Bible Readings:
Key Bible Reading: Ezekiel Ch 37:1-14 – the Valley of Dry Bones comes to Life.
Supporting texts:
The story of the Raising of Lazarus – John 11:1-44
Creation of Adam and Eve in Creation – Genesis 2:4-24
God’s great hope of a new heaven in a new earth Revelation Ch 21:1-7, and Ch 22:1-16.

To help explain the Prophecy of Ezekiel:
Bible Project – Ezekiel – Part 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-CIPu1nko8
Bible Project – Ezekiel – Part 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDeCWW_Bnyw

Set Readings for today:
Isaiah 40: 12-17, and 27
2Corinthians 13:11-end
Matthew 28:16-20

Hymns and Songs for Pentecost Sunday:
Today’s music is quite eclectic, in that it is a mixture of both Christian and non-Christian, and from mainly an ethnic background to show we are all one family. Hopefully, something for everyone to sing along to…

Traditional:
1. “Holy, holy, holy” – classic – Albert Hall – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39ZfrO0UW_s

2. “I bind unto myself today the strong name of the Trinity” – prayer of St Patrick – Songs of Praise – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yH4ToVxtn9A
– “Holy Spirit, living breath of God” – Keith and Kirsten Getty – allude to the Prayer of St Patrick at the end, very fittingly – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQkxC-AhhVo

3. “And can it be” – Songs of Praise – rousing testimony to God in action – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQeIGbKqiw8

4. “Let all mortal flesh keep silent” – the mystery of Christ the human infant and King of Kings – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zz4LBjysReA

5. “Be Still for the presence of the Lord” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZugvUQ4m90U

Meditation:
6. KEY VIDEO: “The Light” – by a young artist called Luke – part of the “Thy Kingdom Come” series of videos 2020 – creating hope and life out of chaos – goes to the heartbeat of God – be inspired – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIyTDegX9Bs

7. “Britain’s Got Talent“ – Tokio Myers – a wonderfully talented young man who took BGT by storm in 2017 and who takes Classical Music into his soul and then brings it into a whole new way of seeing – remarkable – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIyTDegX9Bs

8. “Be Thou my Vision” – sung as “The Irish Blessing” virtual choir a week ago – first time in Ireland’s history that churches across so many of the divides in Ireland have come together with one voice – truly a “blessing” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TascsWZPj8U

9. What a truly “inclusive” world could look like – “Matt Redman and friends” – “Amazing Grace” – part of “Thy Kingdom Come” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXBsCkIxVRU

Nostalgia (from the 1970’s):
10. Bonny M “By the rivers of Babylon” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ta42xU2UXLA

Modern Music:
11. “Heaven help us all” – just released by the Kingdom Choir – very topical – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqK7GMGpsSQ

12. “Blinded by your Grace – Part 2” – Stormzy – great song about God’s healing dream https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPuj6UISMhs

13. “Glory” – Common & John Legend – taken from the film “Selma” in 2015 about Martin Luther King Jr – incredible to think this cry for freedom has had to be held for so long – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUZOKvYcx_o

14. “Stand Up” – Cynthia Erivo – taken from the film about Harriet Tubman in 2019 – one Black woman’s struggle to do the right thing and to survive back in the 1840’s – a protest song for freedom – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sn19xvfoXvk

15. “O Happy Day” – from the film Sister Act 2 – we all need to find some joy ultimately – A real feel good song! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXPoRnY3r10

Videos:
16. “Pope Francis visits the Street Children of Manila in the Philippines ” – shows just how much work there is to do (PLEASE don’t show to young children) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bjv_l7hATpQ&t=204s

17. The famous “I have a dream” speech by Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr – a very poignant reminder of how much and how little has changed – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vP4iY1TtS3s

18. And picking up from last week – Pope Francis’ ground breaking talk as part of the “Thy Kingdom Come” Pentecost is now available as a six minute independent talk – very inspiring – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JrCa0jDg24

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Live Service for Pentecost

Click here to watch the service streamed live on Sunday 31st May, the feast of Pentecost, live streamed from the Prayer Garden in Congresbury.

Click here to watch the Pentecost service for Thy Kingdom Come, featuring both Archbishops and a special message from Pope Francis.

Hymns, Songs, Readings and other links for Pentecost Sunday –

“A Day of Celebration: Come Holy Spirit our souls inspire”

Pentecost – Diocese of Jamaica & The Cayman Islands

Hymns and Songs for Pentecost Sunday:

Today, is a great day of celebration. So, we have chosen a numerous variety of songs.  Hopefully, something for everyone to sing along to…

Ancient:

  1. “Come Holy Ghost, our souls inspire” – a call for the Holy Spirit to come among God’s people.  Otherwise known by its Latin name, the Veni Creator Spiritus – it dates from the high days of monasteries in the 9th Century and is sung every year in the form of Gregorian chant
  2. here is a version performed this year as a ‘virtual’ Choir from Croydon Minister – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YD6a77INAk
  3. Here is a more traditional version with images to accompany – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPVuLOXh8vE&list=RDSPVuLOXh8vE&start_radio=1

Traditional:

  • “O Thou who camest from above” – Charles Wesley – one of the most wonderful traditional hymns about God and faith in general and the Holy Spirit in particular – here sung by Rochester Cathedral Choir –
  • Also became the subject of a great little book about life and faith by Br Ramon SSF “The Flame of Sacred Love: The Divine Fire in Human Experience” Pub in 1999, a year before he died.  A bargain at Amazon in Paperback at £2.55.

Meditation:

  • “As the deer” (Psalm 42) WORLD EDITION – I found this very moving, when you consider that Pentecost enabled the Gospel to go out to ALL nations – here a well known devotional hymn sung in many different tongues but with one voice – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnIYWKfW74E

Children’s Songs:

Recommendations from Youth Club:

  1. “Holy Spirit, you are welcome here” – Jesus Culture – Kim Walker-Smith – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFByOX8Fb0M
  1. “Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace)” – Hillsong –
  1. “Build your Kingdom here” – Rend Collective – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcSWpVKKMcs&feature=youtu.be
  1. “Sing it from the Shackles” – Rend Collective – speaks of overcoming things from the point of view of Lockdown – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YF2wV9AREVM&feature=youtu.be

Modern Music:

This week really having a “binge” on Rend Collective – so many of their songs are about the Holy Spirit or about living in the Spirit:

  1. “Revival Anthem” – Rend Collective – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Egw65U99qjU&feature=youtu.be
  1. “Burn like a Star” – Rend Collective – classic (with lyrics) –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VX8IuCQV5xk&feature=youtu.be
  1. “You will never run away” – Rend Collective – the Panda song – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONYUM3v35S4&feature=youtu.be
  1. “Joy of the Lord” – Rend Collective – with lyrics – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3gLeCiMJqI&feature=youtu.be

But we couldn’t miss out the classic from Hillsong:

  1. “Oceans” – by Hillsong – one of the most evocative and most watched Christian videos – in all its forms something like forty to fifty million views – https://youtu.be/o6qNtPiBnvk

Videos:

  1. “Shavout and Pentecost” – Aaron Eime (Deacon, Christ Church in Jerusalem) – For those who have been to Israel, and those interested in Jewish roots of our faith, here is a wonderful video sent out a few days ago by someone you will hopefully recognise. – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cS8Q-EYik0

2. “The Holy Spirit” – by the Bible project – gives a really good overview of the life and scope of the work of the Holy Spirit, all in about four and a bit minutes! Amazing!  Well worth a watch! – https://youtu.be/oNNZO9i1Gjc

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Live Stream this Sunday

Live Stream Church for Sunday: “Pentecost: praying for the coming of the Holy Spirit afresh and anew” – LIVE from the Prayer Garden in Congresbury – 10.30am

(Simply access the “New Creation Facebook Page” from Google:  https://www.facebook.com/NewCreationChurches/ or via the New Creation website: https://www.newcreationchurches.org.uk/

(You do NOT need to have an account with Facebook to access any of this material.)

This week we are going to be CELEBRATING the Gift of the Holy Spirit to the early Church two thousand years ago, and PRAYING for a renewing and refreshment of the Holy Spirit in these days, as we look to life beyond Lockdown.

The weather looks to be fine – so we will hopefully be outside in the Prayer Garden, behind the Refectory in Congresbury.

For the Service – you will need:

A Cake (or equivalent) – something to celebrate and share on the ‘birthday’ of the Church

A Light Bulb – of some description

And a towel – a hand towel or a bath towel – preferable something that is soft to touch

Look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday.

And afterwards, join us for our NEW ‘Virtual’ Coffee catch up.

Afterwards, why not join us for the second of our ‘virtual’ Coffee and catch up?  We shared the first of these last Sunday and it was lovely to see people, to hear their stories across our communities.

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Live Stream service for the Sunday between Ascension and Pentecost

Thy Kingdom Come – Day 3

Click here to watch the service that was streamed live on Sunday 24th May

Links to songs/hymns and videos

“Thy Kingdom Come: Thankfulness as a way into Prayer”

Bible Readings:

Key text:    1John 4:9-10,19

Other readings:

  • Matt 6:9-13, Luke 11:2-4 – Lord’s Prayer
  • Exodus 4:18-23 – God as Father – Moses
  • Isaiah 55:1-13 – Isaiah’s great poem of God’s covenant love
  • Matt 26:36-42 – Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane
  • Isaiah 25:4-8 – Isaiah’s dream of the Messianic Banquet
    • See Jesus’ fulfilment of this in:
      • Feeding of the Five Thousand
      • Eating with Tax Collectors and Sinners
      • Eating at Zaccheus’ house
      • Parable of the Great Banquet in Luke 14:15-24
  •  

Set Readings for today:

Acts 1:6-14

1Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11

John 17:1-11

Hymns and Songs for Ascension:

Hopefully, something for everyone…

Traditional:

  1. “O Love that wilt not let me go” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmk9sfX_QPY

Reflection Music:

“Your Kingdom Come” – by Pete James – based on the Lord’s Prayer – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mA2q295l9A0

Modern Music:

Videos:

  1. Wonderful testimony to Prayer in Action – the AND of the Messianic Banquet – “From Bronx to Bradford: Friars on a Mission” – the story of the Community of Franciscan Renewal in Bradford by the BBC –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SL9TGKRaVpA&t=1097s

Books:

  1. “Surprised by Hope” – by Tom Wright – this is his popular version of his seminal exploration of Resurrection and its implications.