Worship on Sunday was led by the Rev. David Hammond. The choir opened the service with the introit, 'Holy, Holy, Holy', accompanied by Mr. Alan Adams.
The congregational reading was Psalm 104, verses 1 and 12-21.
The Rev. David Hammond's theme for worship on the second Sunday before Lent was 'The Creation'. Talking firstly to the young people, he drew them into a conservation about our planet. He discussed with them how our knowledge of the earth had changed. We now know that the earth is not flat as originally thought and that the earth moves around the sun.
Similarly, we have come to realise that many of the stories in the Old Testament, although they were considered accurate at the time they were written, are actually pictorial images. The message of the New Testament, however, that God loves us, remains unchanged.
After singing the hymn, 'Tell me the old, old story of unseen things above', the children left for their classes.
The Bible readings were taken from Proverbs, chapter 8, 'In Praise of Wisdom' and Colossians, Chapter 1, verses 15-20, 'The Person and Work of Christ'. Both were read by Mrs. Margaret Day, and were followed by prayer reflecting on these readings.
"Christianity is constantly coming under attack," were the opening words of the Rev. David Hammond's address. The Darwinian theory of evolution poses many difficult questions. As our knowledge increases, the story of 'The Creation', as told in Genesis, is put into question. "Evolution," said the Rev. Hammond, "is not a contradiction, but an affirmation of God's love for us."
After prayers of Intercession the final hymn, 'The church's one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord', was sung.
Thanks go to the Rev. Hammond for challenging us and leading us forward in faith.
"To be better Christians," he said, "let us go out and spread the good news."
The Grace and the Blessing concluded worship.
This Sunday's service will be at 11 am and will be led by the Rev. David Owen. All are welcome.