Saturday, March 27, 2010
New Beginnings
Spring is here at last, and we are seeing new beginnings all around.
In the church we are able to look forward to a new beginning, with a new vicar now chosen. (Although as I write, the announcement of which candidate has been successful, has yet to be made).
Meanwhile the church continues to function as usual. One corner of the church is to be converted into a room suitable for use by the children during our 10.00am services. Also plans for the refurbishment or replacement of the church heating system are being put in hand, since the existing system is near the end of its life (it too needs a new beginning!).
During the vacancy we have reviewed what sort of person we want as our vicar and we plan one more review. This is whether the current pattern of service times is the most suitable? We are not planning any changes but, since the service times were established many years ago, we will consider the possibility that some change may be needed to suit our village today. So if you have any views or comments on service times, do tell a member of the PCC.
It may not always be perceived as such, but the church is here largely to serve those who are not members. It is very helpful if we can be made aware of any needs that we can meet better.
Easter is when we celebrate Jesus’ new beginning. When, to everyone’s astonishment, including the disciples, after being put to death he rose again so demonstrating that there is life after death.
Subsequently Jesus' followers were willing to die for their belief in the resurrected Jesus (and many did).
We do not expect to die for our beliefs, but we are called to make a new beginning. Living Jesus' way is not only about having a hope of life after death but about how we live in this life. Material possessions and the pursuit of personal enjoyment obsess our world. Yet so many people are unhappy & disillusioned.
Jesus came to give us peace and joy, and set us free from self-centred materialism.
Easter is about new beginnings (which is what the Easter egg is supposed to symbolise).
At Easter, Jesus demonstrated the truth of his teaching, and offers us the opportunity to join his new way.
May God bless you this Easter,
Dennis Pearson
Licensed Lay Minister (Reader)