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.