Morning Eucharist at St. Mary's began with a warm welcome from Rev. Michael John, followed by the processional hymn, 'New every morning is the love.' Rev. Michael went on to wish Mrs. Irene Burnley a very happy 90th birthday.
The morning's readings were read by Mr. Darrel and Mrs. Jean John. Mr. John read from the Second Book of Kings relating the story of Elijah being taken to heaven in a chariot of fire. Mrs. John read from St. Paul's second Letter to the Corinthians. Rev. Michael read from the Gospel of Mark, recounting the transfiguration of Christ on a mountain top.
Rev. Michael went on to deliver a thought-provoking sermon.
Mountain tops figure greatly in the Bible; they are seen as the closest place to God, where the veil is thinnest and known by the Celtic Christians as a 'thin place'. It is therefore no surprise that the transfiguration happened in such a place. A place where we can see beyond, into the greater good and we can communicate with God.
We have a choice in life, whether we communicate with God from the valley of materialism and empiricism or climb that mountain through the veil of mystery that draws us to a deeper place.
There is an open invitation to climb with Jesus Christ to a higher place and to see all in a way that leaves you wondering.
The prayers were led by Mr. Malcolm Stacey.
The offertory hymn was 'My God how wonderful thou art'.
The Eucharist was celebrated at the High Altar and all were called to share in communion with our Lord. During the Eucharist, the choir sang 'Thee We Adore'.
Sunday Club joined the congregation for the communion.
The recessional hymn was 'Christ is the world's true light'.
Members of the congregation are reminded to check that their names are on the Benefice Electoral Roll by contacting Mrs. Sue Baldwin.