A glorious Bank Holiday Sunday morning and the bells of St. Mary's Church rang out calling all to worship. The 11th Sunday after Trinity and a large congregation had gathered for the morning Eucharist. The service was in the care of Canon David Jenkins and began with the processional hymn 'Christ the King O friends rejoice.' Canon David welcomed all to the the service and reminded us of the week's regular church events. Mrs. Jen Richards read the first reading from the Prophet Isaiah. We are told how the Lord called Isaiah from the time of his birth 'he named my name. You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be Glorified.' Mrs. Joy Griffiths read the second reading from St. Paul's Letter to the Corinthians. We are told of the love of Christ. He died for all and all who live, might no longer live for themselves but for Him, who died for their sake and was raised. We are ambassadors for Christ and we beseech you on his behalf, be reconciled to God. The readings were followed by Psalm 145 'I will exalt thee O God my King.' Canon David gave the morning sermon. He reminded us that the morning's Collect 'Help us to proclaim the Gospel of God's love so that those who hear it may be reconciled to Thee.' This Collect reflects the Gospel; we are all whole, at one in the Gospel, not identical, each one unique. Jesus sends us out to be his disciples, to proclaim His purpose and give ourselves up to God. There is new work to be done and a purpose to unfold. The church is there through our witness of God's love. Glorify peace; be at peace with God, with each other and within. Canon David stated that 'The world needs a message of reconciliation; we live for God and for others. I appeal to you on behalf of Christ, proclaim until your dying day, be at peace, whole and reconciled. Share that glory God bestowed upon Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the bridge to cross into God's living presence - O! Come to the Father through Jesus the Son.' Mrs. Kate O'Neill gave morning prayers. In this troubled world may we find unity and love, understanding and reconciliation and may we dwell on what unites us and not what divides us. The offertory hymn was 'Captains of the Saintly Band.' Communion at both altars followed this, with Canon David inviting all members of Christ's family present to join with him in Communion with our living Lord. During Communion, the choir sang from the Communion Service by Burton. The final hymn was 'We have a Gospel to proclaim,' followed by the Dismissal 'Let us go forth in peace in the Name of Christ.' Tomorrow (Saturday), there will be a coffee morning at Church House for the Tenby Arts Festival. There will be a meeting for confirmees at St. Mary's Church on Sunday at 11 am. Sunday Club re-starts on Sunday, September 10, at 10 am in Church House.
