Thursday, 6 August 2009

Heavenly Father

One of the most precious truths of the Christian view of God is that we can call Him 'papa' or 'daddy'. God has not changed from the Old Testament but Jesus introduces a whole new way to relate to Him.

Over and over, Jesus calls God 'abba' and attests the work that he did on earth to the Father. We believe that Jesus is the one and only true son of the heavenly father. However, Jesus has made a way for us to be adopted as the heavenly father;s children. Just as the father loves Jesus, so He loves his adopted children - after all he gave his one and only son for us.

The Father's love is not meant to be a theoretical and celebral truth but an experienced truth. The key to knowing our Father's love is through the Holy Spirit. Allow the Spirit of the Son to cry out in your heart 'abba, daddy, father'.

Saturday, 1 August 2009

Swine Flu Precautions

The Diocese in consultation with local Primary Care Trusts have issued strong guidelines to help prevent the spread of the new form of flu virus.

1) There will be no chalice offered in communion and we will receive only the bread. Intinction (dipping the bread in the wine) does not significantly reduce the risk of infection for this virus.

2) We will share the Peace hand to hand as has been our practice. This is a shame but we will find new ways to mark our interaction together. Singing a simple song has been suggested.

3) There is a bin, tissues and hand gel at the back of church if they are needed.

3) We will try to introduction of a ‘Flu Buddy’ system where we have a point of contact with each other if come down with the symptoms and need help.

I understand this may seem a bit obtrusive, but if it makes our gathering more safe, especially for the more vulnerable among us, then it is for the best.