The Rector, Fr. Paul, led the morning Eucharist service in Jeffreyston Church on Sunday, the fifth after Trinity. The readings were Jeremiah 20.vv 7-13; Romans 6.vv 1-11. The Gospel reading was Matthew 10.vv 24-39, where we read of Jesus with His disciples, before he sent them out to preach to the people. For his sermon, Fr. Paul chose, as a text, words from verse 26 of the Gospel reading: 'So have no fear of them'. In an interesting sermon, Fr. Paul explained the background to the Gospel reading, with the chosen text, saying that we should never be afraid for Jesus loves us and watches over us. During the service, Fr. Paul presented a model cross to each of the young people now acting as assistants at the Eucharist services. The crosses had been donated by Constance George, each with a chain cleverly provided by Wybert Bendall. These crosses had previously been blessed by Fr. Paul. At the end of the service, Fr. Paul was proud to show the congregation the well done paper models of sparrows made in the Sunday School. These were mentioned in the Gospel reading and concerned the theme of the day. Emma June led in the closing prayer based on this. Fr. Paul was the celebrant and Rev. Sylvia Temple was the preacher at the Eucharist service which followed in St. James' Church, Reynalton. The earlier readings were repeated. For her sermon, Rev. Sylvia remarked on the price, which some people in the world pay for admitting to being a Christian. She reminded us that we are a temple of the Holy Spirit and urged us to pray for continuing courage in being a hero for God. Fr. Paul led Evensong in Jeffreyston Church. The morning readings were repeated. In his sermon, Fr. Paul expanded on the teaching from the Gospel of Matthew. He stressed that true discipleship is not easy, but we have the assurance that God loves us and stays with us. Services for this Sunday are: 10.30 am - United Parishes Eucharist and Sunday School, Jeffreyston; 2-5 pm - All invited to a tour of house gardens associated with East Williamston, in an effort to raise funds for the church. Starts at Lawrich Park, Clayford Road. Cost is just £3.
