The Rector, Fr. Paul, led the morning Eucharist service in Jeffreyston Church, on Sunday, the Celebration of the Baptism of Jesus Christ.
The readings were Genesis 1.vv 1-6, Acts 19.vv 1-7. The Gospel reading was Mark 1.vv 4-11, where we read of John the Baptist Preparing the Way.
For his sermon, Fr. Paul took as his text verse 8 of the Gospel of Mark Chapter 1, 'I have baptised you with water, but He will baptise you with Holy Spirit'. In a well-delivered sermon, Fr. Paul explained the background to the Gospel reading, saying that God's love enriches our lives and that Jesus offers us both forgiveness of sin and the power to live and work for Him.
At the end of the service, Fr. Paul was proud to show to the congregation an example of the Sunday School activity - a coloured in picture depicting the Baptism of Jesus.
The closing prayer was clearly read out by Lorna from the Sunday School. She also played the tune 'Greensleeves' beautifully on the flute, at the very end of the service.
Rev. Sylvia Temple was the celebrant and Fr. Paul was the preacher at the Eucharist service which followed in St. James' Church, Reynalton. The earlier readings were repeated.
In his sermon, Fr. Paul expanded on the teaching from the Gospel of Mark chapter 1. He reminded us that the Holy Spirit sanctifies the bread and wine used in the communion service.
Services for this Sunday, January 19, are: 9 am - Eucharist, East Williamston; 10.30 am - Eucharist and Sunday School, Jeffreyston; 12 noon - Eucharist, Loveston.