Last Sunday, 26th July, alongside our usual corporate worship at the 10am Parish Eucharist at St Andrew's, there were three significant additions. First, Ros received a certificate and medallion from Reverend Liz and our director of music, in order to mark and congratulate her on sixty years of being a chorister in our church whilst the rest of the choir gathered around to witness this moment, along with the rest of the congregation and amid much well deserved applause. Secondly, we were all officially informed that one of our church family, namely, Giles, had been recommended to begin his training and formation for the Ordained Ministry. Bishop Richard had informed our vicar of the Selection Conference's advice on this matter and again, the applause demonstrated our support and joy for Giles who will begin his preparation for this at St Andrew's which will now be not only his home church but also his training church. Finally, at the end of the Eucharist, there was an additional act of worship which involved all those present, particularly this year's Team, who will shortly be travelling to South Africa. This marked their Commissioning for this purpose when they will be living alongside the children and carers in Mafambisa, always a life-changing experience. We wish them God's Blessing as they will be working and sharing alongside our church partner, Hands at Work. Also, at the start of the service, our vicar thanked the children and adults who had worked so successfully during our Sunday School acts of worship. This activity has ended for the duration of the Summer Holidays but will recommence in September. This year's Country Fayre exhibition in the church will focus upon 'Calmness in Crisis' and will include the different ways that we can face challenging times. This will be linked with our charities, supported by the church, Cruse Bereavement and Homestart Bedfordshire.
The readings for that day were: 1.Kings 3. 5-12 Romans 8. 26-39 Matthew 13. 31-33, 44-52. Reverend Liz's homily was upbeat and thought provoking. She noted wryly that during these times of rapid change which included yet another new PM, Larry the Cat was perhaps the longest resident at Number Ten! Indeed, stability is not always found in obvious places. Thinking no doubt about the 'mustard seed' imaginary, God's Kingdom grows within small things and instances. Our church has witnessed a steady journey of faith. The wonder of God's kingdom grows quietly and small acts of kindness and love grow and transform, changing priorities. A story shared with a child can do the same and there is much to reflect upon. God can be found in ordinary moments. A visit can build God's kingdom. Small things matter. The treasure that we carry is the God News and such things can bring about the merging of old and new. Staying rooted too can bring about the Kingdom. We are all Makers of Mission. We are called to be builders and we can grasp the opportunities as and when they come.
This Saturday, 1st August, the Mafambisa Team depart for their long flight and land journey to the community at Mafambisa whilst back home, on that day, between 10am and 12 noon, there will be our usual Coffee Shop in the Chapter House. Then, on Sunday, 2nd August, there will be 10am Parish Eucharist followed by Coffee - or - Tea and Fellowship in the Chapter House. Baptisms will follow in the church at noon.