The Eucharist service last Sunday was conducted by the Vicar, the Rev, Victor Millgate. The readings were from Zephaniah 3 14-20 and Acts 3 12-19 and the Gospel from St. Luke 24 36b-48.
In his sermon, the Vicar reminded the congregation that they should still be celebrating Christ's victory over death on the cross, the risen Lord.
Rev. Millgate retires at the end of August after almost 24 years at St. James' and he said as retirement draws nearer, he recalls the special events that occur each year.
Although Easter is a time of celebration, it saddens him that it is also the time of the Easter Vestry, a meeting when facts and figures are recorded and also when the business side of churches are discussed.
Inevitably, the overwhelming matters of fund-raising, complaints of quota payment worries, the magazine, new service books and service sheets are questioned and mulled around and the Vicar is concerned of the image the people of church are portraying to those outside it. Meetings are called to discuss these worries, but Rev. Millgate recalled never has he been asked to call a meeting to discuss the wonder of Easter, the marvel of God's love to us all, it is very sad.
In today's Gospel, we are told Jesus stood amongst the disciples and they were frightened and had doubts he could be there in the flesh, but he opened their minds and told them it was the fulfilment of the scriptures prophecies. It is difficult to understand and take the wonder of God's love, but Jesus is alive and with us now. Let the refrain from our service responses ring out 'Alleluia Christ is risen' and let this joy be seen and heard in us, to be an example and bring others to his church.
This Sunday, the service is Evensong at 6 pm. All are very welcome and if you need a lift to enable you to attend, do please ring (01834) 871604 or 871591.
Please note: On Monday, May 4, the May fayre will be in the Parish Hall, 10 am - 12 noon. There will be a selection of cakes and goods for sale, please go and support it.