Congratulations February 12, 2012
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To all the churches who were able to pay their Diocesan Share in full this year. [The Diocesan Share is the money each church gives annually to Salisbury. This then provides clergy to be available to every person in every part of this diocese.] Nearly every church in the Melbury Team had paid its share in full by the end of 2011. This is a tribute to the hard work, imagination and generosity of those who support and maintain the churches in this area. All of us, and perhaps especially those who do not regularly come to worship, owe a debt of gratitude to those who serve God in this way. The church is for the whole community, not just a few, but those who work so hard and give so generously deserve the thanks of the community for their dedication.
Ash Wednesday February 6, 2012
Posted by melburyteam in Lent, Rector's Ramblings.add a comment
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which this year falls on 22nd February. At 7.30 in Halstock Church we begin Lent with a service characterised by silence, reflection, and penitence. It will include Holy Communion, and the opportunity for what is known as ‘the imposition of ashes’. A small cross is marked in ash on the forehead of those who wish to receive this mark, with the challenging and moving words:
‘Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.
Turn away from sin and be faithful to Christ.’
The service is designed not only to mark a special day. It also starts us on a path that can be seen, even at this early stage, to be leading to the Good Friday and Easter celebrations. We look forward to seeing you there.
Lent February 3, 2012
Posted by melburyteam in Course, Lent, Rector's Ramblings.add a comment
Ahh – no sooner does Christmas seem over, and we’re onto Lent – a chance to lose some weight put on over the festive season perhaps? Or a chance to dig a little deeper into what it all means?
This year we are offering two separate and different ways to consider the profound claims of our faith, and how they may translate into changed lives.
The Film ‘Chocolat’ has hidden depths, and during Lent (the period from Ash Wednesday Feb 22nd to Easter Sunday 8th April), we will be watching a part of the film each week and discussing how it echoes various parts of the Christian faith, and our walk with God. You may wish to consider giving up something other than chocolate this year!
We will also be offering a new course looking at the essentials of the Christian faith from the Gospel of mark. Called ‘Exploring Christianity’, it is based around a meal, and is a wonderful means of reminding us why we are Christians, or helping us to consider whether we wish to take the step of faith involved in becoming a follower of Jesus Christ.
