Women's World Day of Prayer

All this week in the Mothers' Union 'Wave of Prayer' we have celebrated women and their work in the church, their communities, and for their families. Let us remember and pray for those who struggle to live a safe and happy life because of the dangers they meet inside and outside of marriage, because of injustice that is biased towards women and girls; for those who are trafficked and used in the modern-day slavery trade.  We pray that their lives will be changed through prayer with action.  May our prayers influence people that have the power to put a stop to these inhumane practices, to stop the cruelty and negativity of misogyny that women have to endure.

Father, make us all vigilant for the victims of this injustice.  Help us to work through prayer and action for a better life for women and girls everywhere.

Women, join your voices to shake the world through the cacophony of sound that will wake people up to the things that are happening in our world, and bring them to work for equality.

Mothers Union Prayer ‘The prayers we breathe’, 

no 148 Trafficking

God,  our constant friend of all time,

Help all women, men and children who are used,

in trafficking, to find in your arms,

the love and respect that they have been denied.

When people have been trafficked across the world,

treated as slaves, and exploited mercilessly –

be there for them in their darkest hours.

May their vision of the world

Still hold a glimmer of hope.

May we, through Christ working in us,

Fight for an end to trafficking

And an end to any abuse

In which the weak or vulnerable

Are exploited by the strong. Amen.

 Vision

Having looked around my office, I decided it needed to be tidied up.  I do this quite often, but it is amazing that once I start to sort things I get so engrossed in what I am looking at that it is difficult to actually tidy, because I run out of time, or end up just putting things back where they were albeit, stacked more neatly than before.

Today I came across a CD that I haven't seen for years.  It is called 'Vision,' and is the music of Hildegard Von Bingen.  As I am listening to it now, I remember why I was so fond of it, and why it was on my playlist especially when I was teaching.  The music is beautiful and takes you away from the cares of the world and focuses the mind on higher things.   In school, I would play this gently in the background when we were doing quite work, or in assembly when the children came in.  They always seemed to respond to it and quietly go to their seats.  As all the children at the school had special needs, either physical or educationally challenged, this was not always the case, so when it did happen, it was quite something.

I have not finished the tidying up, having become engrossed in the music, and realising I have quite a list of things to do so I must get on with it.   I will continue playing the music however because I feel quite calm following a few stressful days.  This can only be a good thing.

Father God,

When we are stressed, help us to take our problems to you in prayer knowing that You are always listening and whispering calming thoughts into our ears.   Help us to look after each other and be aware of things that are bothering each other, and reach out that hand that has a calming effect, or say the words to show you understand and are praying for them.

We pray in the name of Jesus Christ.

Amen. 

 Things that catch your eye

Looking through my facebook page yesterday, I came across a little cartoon.   I like cartoons and am fond of drawing them along with caricatures which I give to people as little presents or cards.

On this particular facebook cartoon, one saw a mother and child.  The child was asking 'what's that mark on your arm Mummy?'   The mum answered that it was the little scar left by the smallpox vaccination that she had as a child.   'Why don't I have one' asked the child.   Mum answered 'because it worked!'

Because so many vaccinations have worked, we no longer see the killer infections that would blight the lives of children, even as recently as when I was a child.   I remember going along to the clinic in Newport, South Wales, where a smallpox outbreak had occurred.  No one said 'no thank you.'  People of all ages were queueing outside the clinic and down the road to get the vaccination.  Luckily, the outbreak was short-lived, and it was thought that it arrived in Wales via one of the ships that came into the port, but no one was really sure.  What we were sure about is that we needed protection.  We had confidence in the new National Health Service to make sure we were safe, and they did.  They pulled out all the stops to ensure everyone was covered by the vaccine, and we the public were so grateful.

Things in the NHS have moved on over the years since 1945, but the one thing that hasn't changed is that they are still caring for us and protecting us from the danger of a new virus that threatens us all.

God bless them all, every-one who puts themselves in danger to care for COVID patients, to man the vaccination stations, for the nurses, the doctors, the physiotherapists, and occupational therapists who work to get the patients back on their feet and home.  For the cleansers, the porters, the kitchen staff, and everyone who so unselfishly lead the fight against this dreaded virus.

Father God,

Thank you for the courage of our care workers who have carried on despite the obstacles that get in the way.  We pray that they get enough rest and that their families are cared for.  We pray that they are supported in their off-duty life, so that they can enjoy being with children and families, and recoup their energy to carry on.

We ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ.

Amen.

 Friendship

How many friends do you have?  I have lots of friends and acquaintances, but truly, friends that when you pick up the phone, it is as though you just spoke to them yesterday; and you fall back into the easy way of being with each other.   I have some 'old' friends, who, when I am with them I am able to say anything knowing that they do not judge me and will be there if I need help or advice.  Old friends may not be in touch for a while, but they are still in the background, in the back of your mind, supporting you as you support them.  

Since lockdown, these friends have become more important because we are not out and about doing our usual things, but needing that sustenance of friendship to keep us going.  These phone calls have become so much more important and make me realise that they must not be taken lightly.

Jesus Lord,

We thank you for our friendships, for those that we have known for a long time, and for newer friends who will become dear friends as time goes by.  We thank you for the fellowship of our church families and our other contacts through social media who keep us in touch with the world even though physically this is impossible at present.

Bless and keep Lord those important people in our lives and make us the good friends that they deserve.

Amen.

 

Busy Busy Busy

I am busy writing a 'to do' list, and it seems to be getting longer and longer.  I have my usual anchors in the week, such as Sunday Service via the internet, getting our shopping delivered, batch cooking and the ever-present cleaning chores, but the list includes meetings, reports, activities for a Mothering Sunday service and so on.  

This week my list includes making cards for our Praying Fellowship, the ladies of the Mothers' Union who cannot get to church or meetings because of age or frailty.  This is something that happens about three or four times a year.  Along with the card, they get a letter with news of the things going on in the branches, as well as a prayer diary and updates from our president or our diocesan chaplain.  This is not a chore, but it is something that takes quite a lot of time and has some real thought put into it.  These ladies (no gentlemen at present) are so important to our MU, and they, I feel are the backbone of our work, uplifting us with their prayers.

Today I am asking you to help me uphold the Praying Fellowship with our prayers.

Father God, be with the faithful followers of the Mothers' Union who are unable to work physically for your kingdom, but through their prayers, they act as a conduit for our actions.  They strengthen us knowing that they add to the wave of prayer and pray specifically for things that are on our agenda.  Father be with those who are lonely and unable to see friends and family.  Be with those who are dependent on others to live their lives because of physical problems.  Bless and keep all helpers and carers who are so important in looking after our ladies.

We ask these things in the names of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

 

 

Fair Trade

All this week in the Mothers' Union 'Wave of Prayer' the prayers have centred and concentrated on fair trade issues.  In the circumstances we find ourselves at present, poverty has been highlighted around the world, but also in our own back yard.  More people than ever are relying on food banks to ensure that they and their children are fed.  The government has had to address the problems of people not able to work, on furlough, or who have simply lost their jobs because of this pandemic.  They need help and it falls to all of us to consider what we can do.

Fair Trade is one of the ways that we can help people overseas to get a fair price for the produce and things that they make to sell on the world markets.  Many of our supermarkets now have fair trade products on sale, and when we make our choices we are deciding whether or not to help these farmers and producers to get a living wage for their work.

Other ways we can help is by donating to our local food banks.  Many of our stores have a basket waiting for donations, and often has a list of things needed, whether it be food basics or toiletries.  This is an easy way of helping.  Just add some things to your usual shopping and as you leave the store, put them into the basket.

The other way we can help is to pray.  We pray for governments and big businesses to rethink their ideas about supporting the people who most need our help, and through prayer (such as the MU Wave of Prayer) we can join our voices with people world wide to highlight this issue and bring it to the forefront of our thoughts.  

Prayer and Action.  Prayer is so important, but Jesus urges us to back up our prayers with action.  Be that person who looks for the 'fair trade' area in the supermarket and makes good choices.  Be that person who gets those extra packs of pasta, or tins of vegetables to give to the food bank.  Be that person who talks to others about the issues, maybe people who have not thought about spending in a way that is beneficial to those who the help.

Jesus, Help us to be 'that person.'

Amen.

 

After watching news programs where Boris Johnson outlined his proposal for our freedom day, people on social media are talking about lots of different experiences that they have missed over this past year.  Some can't wait to go to a restaurant with friends and have a sociable meal, or go to the pub or a holiday.  Businesses are desperate for things to open again so that our economic life can resume and hopefully save jobs.  Some are looking forward to being able to go to the gym although this is not my idea of fun, good for them I say.

I just want hugs.  I want to hug my family, to take my daughter and granddaughters in my arms and hold them close, cling to them, and shower all my love onto them.   I want to meet friends, and reach out to them and kiss their cheeks as we used to, without that gnawing worry that something dreadful might happen if I let down my guard.  I want to go to church again and sing at the top of my voice with joy.

Will normal ever be normal again?  Perhaps not, but united families are and must be a priority in my book.  Being apart from them is like a physical ache, and although we have social media, zoom, facetime, it is not the same.  

Let's be sensible.  We don't want to have to do this again.  We want this to be the last lockdown, so we must adhere to the rules.  They are not there to imprison us, they are there to keep us safe.  

Help us to understand the importance of obeying the rules so that we can get back to a new normal and beat this virus once and for all.  No more gatherings on the beach, or house parties, or raves, or people just ignoring regulations because they think they are not for them.

Father God,

Be with us at this worrying time.  Help us to help others by being sensible and reaching out in ways that are safe until we are told otherwise.  Father, may we use this time wisely, studying for lent and remembering that our Saviour Jesus Christ was tempted, but be turned his back on temptation, as we must do.

We ask these things in the name of our Saviour,

Amen.

 

This morning the sky was so beautiful, that I had to go outside and take a photograph.  Also, more little flowers had burst through the grass during the night, and it made me happy to see spring travelling steadily towards us.  It was very early and I am hoping that no one saw me because in my excitement I forgot that I was in my pyjamas.

I have downloaded a lent help sheet called 40 acts.  Each act gives and idea of what to do that day to bring us closer to God and observe Lent through simple acts of kindness.  Today it urges me to 'send someone a message to let them know I am thinking about them.'  I pass this on to each and everyone reading this to do the same, as I send you my very best wishes, and please know that I am thinking about you and praying for you.

Join me:

Father in heaven.  in this difficult situation, where many people are shielding or unable to go out and about, help us to find fellowship through other means.  Help us to think of those in similar situations that need to know that 'someone' is reaching out to them.

Amen.  

Through the eyes of a child

Under the old trees at the front of our house, these gentle flowers lift their heads above the ground and brighten our day with their colour and form.  This brightness in the dark days of winter and the beginning of Lent gives us hope that things are becoming 'normal' again.  We see the wheel of the year turning, bringing new life to nature that has paused for a while, waiting for the sun, the lighter mornings and the warmer days to come.

Father God,

Be with us as we notice the spring flowers, the birds that come to our gardens, the wildlife  that wanders through our shared space.  Help us to care for your creatures and wildlife as part of our lenten duties, and throughout the coming year.  

Be with us as we strive to become closer to You through prayer and study, keenly feeling the sacrifice that you have made for us all.

We ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.

Amen.

All things bright and beautiful

When I woke up this morning, this children's hymn was going around my head, and I found myself humming and singing it for hours afterward.  There is a name for a song or tune that gets stuck in your thoughts, but I can't think what it is called.   Mostly, they are annoying and can drive you potty trying to rid yourself of it, but this one certainly did not have that effect.

This hymn has always been a source of joy.  I remember it from childhood, singing in Sunday School or assembly.  I remember (being Welsh) singing out with such gusto, raising the roof, singing with a smile on my face because of the pictures in my head from the words of the song.

Sometimes as we grow older, that joy can be overtaken by everyday problems and worries.  The colours of the world can lose that brightness, and our lightness of heart can become heavy.  

I am drawn to look out of the window and see the birds, the flowers, the bright sky and let them lift my heart, remembering that Jesus drew the children to him.   We can regain that awe and wonder by looking through the eyes of children and seeing what they see.

When I was teaching in a school for special needs children, this was one of our favourite hymns, and the children sang with great enthusiasm which sometimes overshadowed the tune, and some of the children could not even talk or sing.  This was not a barrier to joining in.  Our 'signing' choir used 'sign language' to be part of the singing, and watching them all perform together was like watching a ballet.  The faces of the children showed the joy of God's love, and shone through their eyes, faces, smiles, body language.  They embraced every part of the experience with wonder.

This is going to be part of my Lent journey.  I am going to look in wonder at the ordinary things and find God's hand in each and every flower, leaf, bird, feather and sunbeam.

How about you.  Join me.

Father in heaven,

we are your children and are so grateful for the love you have given us.   Help us to reach out to others and share your love with them, through our prayers, our works and the way we live our lives.

Amen.

 

 

Lent

Be with us Father in our journey through Lent, learning from the scriptures and prayers.  We thank you for your example of the 40 days in the wilderness, and hope to follow you with courage as we face the temptations of our world, and learn the strength to turn our backs on it.

Father, be with those who would normally meet in church today to receive the Ashes, and help them in their spiritual communion with you through fellowship with others in different and new ways that will keep your congregations together as one in your love.

Amen.

 

Pancake day.

What are your memories of pancake day.  I remember as a child the flurry of excitement when my mother got out the flour and eggs and milk and started making the batter for the pancakes.   It was a huge job for her to make sure there was enough for everyone to have at least two, and maybe more because our house was filled with people, parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews, and cousins who came by and sometimes stayed.  That was our family.  We were a mix and match bunch, but everyone knew that there was a place for them at a family table, whichever one that might be.

The pancakes didn't look fancy like the photograph, and the toppings were probably very unhealthy, including sugar, lemon, Golden Syrup, and whatever Mum could throw together from the pantry.  Marmalade sauce was one of my favourites because it wasn't too sweet, and consisted of half a jar of marmalade, a knob of butter and some juice or water.  It was then heated up to make a wonderful syrup which dripped over the edge of the pancake onto fingers and clothes, a sticky wonderful tasty beginning to Lent.

As a child, it was so exciting.   The implications of lent and the crucifixion was a very difficult concept, so children had the 'milk of the gospel' through homes and Sunday School, whilst our parents did the difficult bit.

When I became a mother, my daughter loved pancake day, and the plate became a little less sugary and a bit more healthy with banana or berries, or even savoury things inside.  What lovely memories, and now in lockdown I remember how we laughed and enjoy that treat together.   My daughter will be doing the same thing today for her children, (I wonder what she will put inside). and carrying on the tradition that has been part of our lives for generations.  

This lent we will still have pancakes, but more importantly, there are other things that we need to do to understand and learn about our saviour and our part in learning and teaching others about the momentous event to come at Easter.

Our church has put together 3 lent courses online.  One will be looking at some well known Lent and Easter hymns, and thinking about how the words and music can help our relationship with God.  We are told that we do not have to sing if we find that uncomfortable, but I am Welsh, I will be there in full voice.

Our other courses are called Growing in God's Garden, a family practical and reflective project, building an Easter Garden.

Finally, the York Course, Living in Hope, by Catherine Fox, a lecturer and novelist (and vicar's wife) will explore a theme that is relevant for all.

Well done to our team at the Churn Benefice.   You are doing a wonderful job and are much appreciated.

Prayer with me.

Father, as we look forward with anticipation to Lent and the opportunities for deeper prayer and study.  May we take these opportunities to learn, to grow and to develop our faith and commitment.

MU Prayer for Shrove Tuesday.

What do you do if you can't sleep?

Once again I am finding it difficult to sleep through the night, and face the prospect of either lying awake and worrying about things that might not even happen, or, getting up and making a huge pot of tea, and sitting at the window looking at the sunrise.

Yes, I chose the tea and sunrise and was surprised to see out in the darkness an array of movement and activity.  Opposite the house, there is a bank of oak trees, and the wind was whipping the branches with such force that I became worried about the squirrel dray that is situated right at the top of the highest tree.  The leaves were falling in great flurries, hitting the ground and forming whirlpools of activity.

I looked for the friendly fox that usually comes to have a sniff around the green area to see what he can find.  I don't often see him 'in the flesh' but having a husband who loves technology, there are cameras that catch his comings and goings.  We really enjoy watching his antics as he sniffs around the front garden hoping for something to eat.  We also have regular calls from the hedgehogs that snuffle about looking for worms or other tasty treats.

The sun comes up, and the trees are tinged with the first rays that shine behind them and make them look regal and imposing.  The colours change, and a red hue fills the sky.  

How does this make me feel?

I feel the joy that our Father God has made this wonderful world with its changing seasons, constant activity of wildlife that manage to mingle with our own lives which are so different.  God is good.  He has given us this wonderful world, and it makes me feel that we should be protecting it, looking after the little creatures and their habitats and fulfilling the legacy of guardianship he has placed upon us.

Pray with me:

Heavenly Father, be with us as we look in wonder at Your creations and help us to protect and guard this world against the mess made by humankind.   May we work together to keep this world a place for all creatures, all humans, all things living and know that by doing this we are doing Your will.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, your only Son, Our Lord.

Amen.

 

 

Life Goes On

Isn't it amazing, how the world is in turmoil, fear and worry are in our minds because we don't know what is happening, families and friends are out of reach and those who are shielding have spent nearly a whole year behind their closed doors.   This depressing situation, if we dwell upon it, will increase our fears and anxiety and blind us to what is happening despite this pandemic.

I feel so encouraged when I join my church group 'online' for services.  We have all had to 'step up' and learn how to embrace new technologies so that we can still have fellowship and time together.

Our church notes and magazine come by email, and are printed off so that we can browse just as we used to, and find out what is happening in our parishes.   I see that the 'pram service' is continuing through the 'go-to meetings' app, and this week they are making pancakes.  well done to all those who are determined that our church life will go on, and children will continue to learn about Jesus Christ and become his people.

We also have a 'Fellowship Group' again hosted by a member of the congregation which is available for all to join in and socialise.  Our tea party on a Thursday invites people to come along and talk about things that happen in their locality; whilst eating biscuits and drinking tea.  There are private prayer and 'Compline' groups hosted regularly throughout the week.    Most heartening was a leaflet for online Lent Courses, three to choose from plus a reading list for those who cannot attend.  Well done to our team for ensuring that this is available, just as it used to be, albeit in a different format.

Father in heaven, your children have been on a steep learning curve (especially the older ones like me) but we are determined that our church life will go on, and we will support one another through prayer and fellowship despite the obstacles that we find in our way.

Pray with me:

Father,

We thank you for new technology and for the courage to embrace it fully so that we can be together in your presence as a group.  We pray that many more opportunities to meet will present themselves until we can in fact meet again face to face.  Bless and keep our church members in safety and health, and give us the courage to come through this supporting each other and the wider community.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Amen.

 

Father in Heaven,

We thank you for your care and love so freely given.

May we be to others, the face of our saviour,

the hands of our saviour,

and the voice of our saviour,

whispering words of love and hope and confidence in what

we can become, despite the difficulties in the world

around us.

Give us the resiliance Lord Jesus Christ to remain

strong in the face of the pandemic and the restrictions that

are in place to keep us safe.

Bless and keep the nurses, doctors and all members of the

National Health Service, working so hard for us whilst

putting themselves in danger to do so.

These things we ask in the name of our Saviour Jesus Christ.

Amen.