“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging” Psalm 41:1-3 (NIV)
While we might be physically distant from each other, we can still be part of a church family together. Here are three ways that we can do that over the coming weeks:
“‘Sir,’ they said, ‘we would like to see Jesus.’ ... Jesus replied, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Very truly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” John 9:21b, 23-25 (NIV)
You may have, as I did, watch the Prime Minister's announcement this evening with a certain amount of shock. Over the last week, we have moved very rapidly to a position where we are all instructed to remain at home, unless absolutely necessary. I know many of us are doing so already, but can I urge you to follow those instructions.
I have now had guidance from the Bishop of St Albans, and wanted to confirm some details with you.
From this point, and until further notice, all public services in the parish are now suspended.
For Sunday mornings, it is my intention to have a short reading, reflection and prayers, via Facebook live, at 10:30am. Please check that you can get to the church's Facebook page. I hope to conduct a test stream on Saturday afternoon.
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” (Psalm 91:1-2)
I thought I'd give you a brief update, and make some suggestions for how we might help and be helped.