Sunday Worship on the Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
Welcome to our Worship on the fourth Sunday after Epiphany. At present both churches in Leesfield Parish are closed for Public Worship, but you're most welcome to join us for worship at home. You'll find everything you need to do that here on this page.
We'll also be sharing recorded services from the Church of England, and St Barnabas & Holy Trinity on our facebook page - Leesfield Parish
Our first hymn this morning is "Light of the World (Here I am to Worship)"
Today's Gospel -
Mark 1: 21-28
Jesus and his disciples went to Capernaum; and when the sabbath came, he entered the synagogue and taught. They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him. They were all amazed, and they kept on asking one another, “What is this? A new teaching—with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” At once his fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee.
Reflection -
Today’s gospel is quite short but there is much in here to consider. I would like to focus on a couple of aspects for today’s reflection.
“They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes”.
As Jesus starts his ministry it is perhaps natural that, as a Jew, he went to the synagogue. We are told in this line that ‘they were astounded’. Not interested or amazed, but astounded. We are not told exactly how he astounded them but it was clear that it had a profound effect on everyone. It is that sense of profoundness that is key to understanding what is happening here and why Jesus’ fame began to spread so immediately.
I can be interested in a book or a speech and I can be amazed by an act on TV or in a theatre, a magician for example. But these are reactions we would associate with being entertained. Yet in today’’ Gospel passage here we learn of this young man who is teaching ‘with authority’ and is truly astonishing them – ‘blowing their minds’, to use the modern vernacular.
So what is so different about what Jesus is doing here in the synagogue that made everyone sit up and listen with astonishment. To start with, in these times, it would be quite normal for the leaders in the synagogue to be more of an administrative position with a limited number of teachers, if any. By way of teaching, they would often select one of the very few people who were literate to read from the scriptures and maybe add a few comments. On some occasions they may be fortunate to have visiting scribes or teachers but again it was clear that they were often just quoting second hand lessons or doctrine they had heard from other rabbis.
Jesus on the other hand isn’t just passing on someone else narrative, he owns the narrative. We hear time and again throughout the Gospels that he is speaking in the first person. For example, he uses phrases such as, “Truly I tell you” or “I say to you…”. He is speaking with the authority of the Lord, it is clear that he is the Lord, Jesus himself is the author of the narrative not the story teller.
How awesome and astonishing this must have been for those present as they began to understand the truth that Jesus spoke and recognised his ‘authority and who he was’. One can only image what it must have been like to have beeen present when Jesus taught and his words sank deep into their minds and hearts.
It is not just the congregation that recognises the authority of Jesus as he begins his ministry. We see the only one to challenge Jesus is Satan himself as he sends a demon to openly question Jesus’ power. “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth?” As the words of the Lord start to take root in the hearts of the people and spiritually enrich them, Satan himself is under threat and he needs to undermine Jesus and dispel his authority.
But of course, he couldn’t. Whilst Satan may have the power to lead us mortals astray and tempt us into sin, Jesus is pure and free from sin. He was sent to release us from our sins.
He therefore had no power over Jesus and moreover no authority. It is Jesus who has the authority and he defies Satan in no uncertain terms by rebuking him and banishing the evil spirit.
The possessed man is made clean and healed. Through this sign Jesus shows us all that no matter what we have done, how low we have fallen and how much of a mess we think we have made of our lives, if we trust and turn to him, he has the authority to put things right and save each and every one of us.
Our Prayers -
Speak with authority
in our lives, Christ.
Speak to us,
and to what is in us,
so that we might be whole.
Speak to us,
with love,
with hope,
and with strength,
so that we might hear you,
and know, deep inside,
that we are your people,
and that you are our God.
Amen.
Our final hymn this morning is "Lord For The Years" -
Welcome to our mid-week news from around the parish and beyond. Sunday Worship will be here at the weekend as usual, but in the meantime here are a few bits and pieces for you to enjoy.
This Monday we celebrated Burns Night at our house, with a special meal and a couple of wee drams. For this week's musical item I've chosen Scotland the Brave, performed by the massed pipe bands after the 2019 Dufftown Highland Games in Moray. We're all hoping that brilliant events like this will be able to take place once again in 2021.
We all have our own hopes for 2021, and here's one I spotted -
Whilst our churches are closed for public worship at present, St Thomas' remains open for individual private prayer each Sunday and Wednesday from 10 - 11 am. All of the required hygiene and distancing measures remain in place, so if you need a quiet and safe space to pray or just sit you are welcome to drop in.
This evening's Worship for all Generations will again be on our facebook page only - you can find it here - Leesfield Parish
Plans are already under way for Lent and Easter, and whether our church buildings are open or closed, there will always be ways of bringing both worship and traditional events to members of our own congregations and friends.
Raising money for church funds is also a huge challenge during these difficult times, and to help with this, St Thomas' Harvest Queen Annie and her retinue are planning a Sponsored Virtual Pancake Toss on Sunday the 14th February. To find out more about what our Sunday school children are doing just click here - StThomas LeesfieldSunday School
In the depth of Winter, it's always encouraging to watch nature programmes on TV. There's still time to catch the last couple of episodes of Winterwatch on Thursday and Friday at 8 pm on BBC 2. This weekend is also the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch. If you haven't signed up for it you may wish to see what you can spot in your own garden.
And finally, next Monday is the 1st of February, so we're pleased to share this great calendar from Action for Happiness - Friendly February -
Welcome to our Worship on the third Sunday after Epiphany. At present both churches in Leesfield Parish are closed for Public Worship, but you're most welcome to join us for worship at home. You'll find everything you need to do that here on this page.
We'll also be sharing recorded services from the Church of England, and St Barnabas & Holy Trinity on our facebook page - Leesfield Parish
Our first hymn today is "New Every Morning Is The Love"
Today's Gospel -
Mark 1:14-20
After John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.”
As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. Immediately he called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, and followed him.
Reflection -
Writing a reflection is often a welcome break from the other distractions of life, particularly work. It’s a time to put on some relaxing background music and think more deeply about the significance of the scripture that is set in the Church’s calendar. It does of course also involve reading related material but usually after a couple of hours or so thoughts start to coalesce into something that makes sense, (well to myself at least). Some weeks are harder than others especially when the readings are fairly short – there doesn’t seem much to get your teeth into. This week I feel quite fortunate, because as soon as I read this familiar Gospel passage ideas immediately jumped in to my mind.
The main reason being because I’ve spent quite a lot of time this week looking at recruitment. I was asked by a colleague to use my expertise to help him recruit some new staff. My starting point was to work with him to start drawing up a job description. What exactly does the role entail? What skills, knowledge, capability and experience do you want? Are there any professional qualifications needed?
What about other attributes, stakeholder management, communications and leadership skills? Then there will be the background and probity checks to think about. All this before you then pass it to Human Resources to approve that you’ve followed all the employment rules. That’s before we’ve even started to review any CVs and start the interview process which will inevitably have to be done by Zoom.
This seems so important, not just so that we recruit the best person for the job but also so that people who want to apply can assess whether the role is the right one for them. Will they enjoy the job? Will they be able to do it and will it give them the next challenge to look forward to?
Yet, here is Jesus, right the beginning of his ministry recruiting his disciples; the key people who will be responsible for continuing to spread the word of God, to pick up where heknows he will leave off and preach the message of Good News and the need to repent.
Jesus hasn’t prepared a job description and had it signed off by the HR department. Rather he moves along shore of Galilee, amongst dozens of fishermen, and picks Simon, James, Andrew and John. There is no evidence that he knew them already, they were just ordinary hard-working fishermen. If they had prepared a CV it would simply have read; “I live here and fish with my friends and family”.
Jesus picked ordinary people like you and me. Not wealthy, super intelligent or in positions of power. Moreover, like you and me they were not perfect. They sometimes hesitated to follow, questioned and misunderstood him and one even betrayed him. Probably not the best candidate, you could argue.
Similar to our reading last week, like Philip and Nathaniel, they didn’t hesitate to follow Jesus without so much as a second thought. They left their family and livelihoods for an uncertain future with no idea what they were letting themselves in for. We don’t know if they had heard him at the synagogue, but it is obvious that the call to Peter, Andrew, James and John is clearly an absolutely compelling invitation into a relationship with Jesus. “Follow me”: be with me, get to know me, enjoy my friendship. But also, share my mission. “I will make you fish for people”: you will teach and preach, heal and serve, as I do.
That is the same call that Jesus makes to each and every one of us. To be a Christian - someone who has a personal relationship with Jesus. He calls us all to be disciple sirrespective of our background, ability or imperfections. He asks each of us to use our talents to support his Church and love those around us.
What an honour and a privilege! Lord, may I answer your call to support your ongoing mission to spread the Good News, and accept the responsibility to do more for Christ’s kingdom?
Our Prayers -
Lord, you call the disciples to follow you and share in your mission.
May nothing hinder me from generously responding to your daily call to follow you.
Gracious Christ,
you came to the fishermen when the prophet John was taken away.
Come to us now, as we fear losses of our own.
Grant us courage to cast aside the nets that bind us,
to follow you into true freedom and newness of life.
Help us to be faithful disciples,
that we might inspire others to follow in your ways.
Amen
Our final hymn for today is "Will You Come And Follow Me If I But Call Your Name"
Welcome to our mid-week news from around the parish and beyond. Sunday Worship will be here at the weekend as usual, but in the meantime here are a few bits and pieces for you to enjoy.
Worship for all Generations continues each Thursday on our facebook page. To see this week's service please click on the following link - Leesfield Parish
This week is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, when we would usually join with our fellow Christians for a Churches Together in Lees and District joint service. We're unable to have a service this year, but the following link will lead to resources for prayer and worship at home - Week of prayer for christian unity 2021
Here's something I missed off before Christmas. The usual Beaver Scout Christmas Sleepover couldn't happen this year, so Kingsley packed up everything they needed to have a sleepover at home in boxes for everybody to enjoy. Below is a small selection of photos, and a few words from Kingsley about this remarkable event.
If the Beaver Scouts cannot go on Christmas Sleepover ... then let Christmas Sleepover go to the Beaver Scouts
What a fabulous weekend! a 40 strong Christmas Sleepover made up of Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts, 1 Scout & a lot of siblings from both Leesfield & St Edwards Scout Groups
What did we learn ......
Beaver Scouts will eat the chocolate puddings for Sunday's on-line game as a midnight snack,
Beaver Scouts will spread peanut butter & birdseed with a spoon, then lick the spoon,
Some mums can burn microwave popcorn
Beaver Scouts can stay awake REALLY late, even on home Sleepovers
Sleeping in a bedsheet igloo in the lounge makes for a very lazy Sunday morning
Well done everyone & thank you all for a fantastic weekend... it seems The Grinch cannot steal Sleepover after all.
Finally, here's a little clip from the BBC, featuring a very cute polar bear.
Welcome to our Worship on the second Sunday after Epiphany. At present both churches in Leesfield Parish are closed for Public Worship, but you're most welcome to join us for worship at home. You'll find everything you need to do that here on this page.
Our first hymn today is "Be Still For The Presence Of The Lord"
Today's Gospel -
John 1:43-51
Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” When Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him, he said of him, “Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!” Nathanael asked him, “Where did you get to know me?” Jesus answered, “I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you.” Nathanael replied, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than these.” And he said to him, “Very truly, I tell you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”
Reflection -
A couple of years ago I was fortunate to spend times studying on a Foundation for Ministry course based at Church House in Manchester. Reading today’s Gospel brought back a specific course on the early history of the Christian faith.
But back in the early days it was not that easy. It would be nice to think that sometime around 30 AD; Matthew, Mark, Luke and John just rang up a publicist and said, “Hey we’ve got this great exclusive about the life and death of this guy called Jesus who came to save the world – can we get it published and syndicated around the world? It’s going to be top of the best seller lists for sure.”
Unfortunately it wasn’t that easy. In those days the word of the Lord was passed around by word of mouth. People used to meet in groups called eklesia. Eklesia comes from 2 Greek words ‘ek’ , meaning “out from and to” and ‘kaleo’ , meaning "to call," and has to do with a group of people called out from one place and to another. It is often translated as ‘church’ in the new testament and sometimes used todescribe a gathering or congregation.
For all its lack of technology, it was clearly a very effective method of disseminating the Good News. Is that any different from today? What’s the first thing we do if we get some good news? The kids have passed their exams, you’ve just been promoted, there’s a new child or grandchild arrived. I think it’s fair to say, the first thing most of us want to do is to tell someone, spread the word be that on the phone, by twitter or facebook – maybe in the not too distant future we may even share the news by having a chat at the hairdressers or down at the pub.
So it’s hardly surpising that this is exactly what Philip did. There’s no inidication that Philip knew of Jesus before his encounter but what is clear is that he immediately believes in this charismatic person. That’s not all, having met Jesus, he is asked to follow him - how good is that?
So, it’s hardly surprising that the first thing he does is to go and tell his friend Nathanael. Although initially sceptical Nathanael also rapidly recognises Jesus’ authority and refers to him as the ‘Son of God’.
Throughout the Gospels there are many examples where people meet Jesus, andthey are changed. Whatever their deepest need was, Jesus meets it. Then they tell others what happened. The good news is passed on by person to person. It is right to say that the same is true today and our role is to share the story of Jesus. We do that through bringing our children to Sunday School and in baptism where we promise to bring our children and godchildren up in faith.
Moreover, we also do it every time we profess our faith, when one person says to another, “I follow Jesus and invite you to do so too.” The Christian community grows because they have seen what the Christian faith has done for people they know. What used to be said about the ‘eklesia’ in the early days is still true - “See those Christians, how they love one another.”
Who will you pass the good news onto next?
Prayers
Father, we are thankful for the happiness
that Jesus has brought into our life.
May we share it with our friends
so that they might also know
the happiness that Jesus brings.
In Jesus' name we pray.
Holy Spirit: Fill me afresh today.
Guide me into all truth that I might glorify You in all things…
and give me the boldness to invite those whom You have prepared…
to “come and see” Jesus for themselves.
Amen.
Today's final hymn is " Let All The World In Every Corner Sing"
Even though our churches are again closed for public worship, there's still plenty going on in Leesfield Parish. Worship for all Generations continues on our facebook page, and our Sunday schools are also meeting virtually. You can find out more on our facebook page - Leesfield Parish
Welcome to our Worship on the first Sunday after Epiphany. At present St Thomas' Church is allowed to remain open for our Parish Eucharist at 10 am, but that may change at any time. You are welcome to join us, but we must stress that if you are in a vulnerable category it is much safer for you to worship at home. If you do attend in person please do remember the rules about safe distancing and mingling with others outside your own household or support bubble. Our visiting Priest this morning is Revd John Faraday, but if you can't be with us in person, you'll find everything you need to worship from home here on this page.
Our first hymn today is "God Forgave My Sin"
Today's Gospel
Mark 1:4-11
John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
Reflection -
Throughout Advent we have heard a number of times about John the Baptist, including the powerful Gospel of John we heard on Christmas Day. For those of you that were fortunate enough to be able to get to worship at St. Thomas you will have also heard David’s sermon about the significance of this scripture.
Today, the Sunday after Epiphany, we hear of the role John plays in the Baptism of Christ and more importantly the Holy Spirit and God the Father. As John had foretold, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me… I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
Even though the event is told in all the Gospels, it is hard for us to imagine what it must have been like as these powerful events unfolded. There were queues of people waiting to be baptised by John in the River Jordan. People standing in shallows maybe up to their ankles or up to their thighs in water and then this young man steps forward. He approaches John the Baptist who immediately recognises Jesus saying “This is he of whom I said, after me cometh a man who is become before me: for he was before me.”
At first John was reluctant to baptise Jesus saying it should be Jesus who should baptise John. But he does as Jesus asks. Jesus is immersed in the water and then as he emerges the heavens are rent apart and the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus. Then, just as you were thinking you’d seen it all, a voice speaks from the heavens. All of this fulfils the prophecy that John has predicted.
The absolute significance is the role of the Holy Spirit and the Father combining with Jesus – the presence of the Holy Trinity is complete. John has thus far been proclaiming baptism for the repentance and forgiveness using water. Jesus receives the Holy Spirit and will thereafter lead us all to a new path of forgiveness through him.
It was a sign that in Jesus’ world, sin would be handled differently, because the Holy Spirit was going to soon take up residence in our bodies, and make us a Temple.
When Jesus went out to be baptised in the river Jordan, God didn’t just speak to him, God claimed him.
“You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
By doing so, not only did God claim Jesus as His Son, but he also declared that through him we can all be redeemed. Through him we can all be baptised with the Holy Spirit.
Later on, toward the close of his ministry, Jesus himself makes clear that baptism leads to a new way of life. When the brothers James and John ask to be seated next to Jesus in the life to come, Jesus points out that “the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized” (Mark 10:39). To be baptized in Jesus is to follow him.
Our prayers -
Creator God, we praise and worship you for your infinite power and love.
We thank you that you have washed us clean and that you continue to inspire and refresh us with your presence.
Remind us daily of our baptism in Christ
and the ever-present possibility of a fresh start
and new beginning in Him day by day.
You have called us to be a temple
where the Holy Spirit can dwell.
Give us clean hands and pure hearts
so that our lives will reflect your holiness.
Lord, remind me that I too can bear your seal of approval.
I am marked by your Spirit,
Let me hear your voice,
And know that I have a purpose and a destiny.
Come Holy Spirit.
Fill me.
Baptise me.
Energise me
Amen
And today's final hymn is "Come Down O Love Divine"
Today we celebrate the feast of Epiphany, and are pleased to share with you a service from our neighbouring parishes of St Barnabas Clarksfield and Holy Trinity Waterhead -
Welcome to our Worship on the second Sunday after Christmas. Our own Revd David Halford is preaching and presiding this morning. Even though we are now under Tier 4 restrictions, we are still allowed to worship in church, but please do not feel obliged to attend. If you can't be with us in person, you'll find everything you need to worship from home here on this page.
Our first hymn today is "Brightest and Best of the Sons of the Morning"
The Gospel -
Luke 2: 41-52
The parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem every year for the festival of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. Assuming that he was in the group of travellers, they went a day's journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, "Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety." He said to them, "Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?" But they did not understand what he said to them. Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart.
And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favour.
Reflection -
As has often been mentioned, indeed recently by some of our visiting clergy, we are very fortunate to have such magnificent windows at St. Thomas created by Jean-Baptiste Capronnier. One of my favourites is reproduced in this letter and depicts todays Gospel reading – Jesus visits the Temple.
You will have probably read and heard this story many times and it is the only description of our Lord’s life as a boy. As Jew it would have been an important year for Jesus as he approached His Bar Mitzvah with officially makes a Jewish boy a “Son of the Covenant” A time when a boy passes into adolescence and starts to think more like an adult.
Setting aside the trauma and worry that was caused to Mary and Joseph, Luke includes this episode as it marks a significant point in Jesus’ life where he moves towards his heavenly Father and starts to move away from his earthly parents. When Jesus stays behind in the Temple he is not being a naughty boy and disobeying his parents, rather he is maturing and taking the next steps in his destined journey. If you study the picture you will see Jesus as a very young boy, but even at this age he was already awake to what his purpose was and what his Heavenly Father had sent him to do.
As a young boy, separated from his parents in a strange city, he could have decided to have his own adventure and do anything he wanted. On the other hand, he could have become a terrified vulnerable little child in the big world at the mercy of thieves and villains.
But Jesus was where he knew he was meant to be. So much so that when his parents finally find him his response is almost one of incredulity... “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?”
Jesus was obeying his Spiritual Father; He is going about the Father’s business in his Father’s House. He is where he knows he belongs. This not about Jesus turning his back on his human parents, but it is nevertheless a turning point and a time for him to re-prioritise and follow God. A time to focus on things other than just the worldly aspects of life. It is what he would call upon his disciples to do at Galilee when he said; ‘‘Follow me’’ and likewise they trusted him and left their fishing nets and lifestyles to become his first disciples.
Jesus also invites us to follow the same direction, to follow him as disciples and obey the Father. That doesn’t necessarily mean to leave home and pack in our jobs, but he does ask us to examine our priorities. How are we as individuals going about The Father’s Business every day in our lives? He asks us to examine our own beliefs and values and challenge our personal identity. Not to worry endlessly about our position in the community or about what regrets we may have. He asks us to trust that God is with us and will show us mercy and forgiveness, he asks us to relate to those around us and not be judgemental. He asks us as disciples to go about the Father’s business and tell of the good news of his kingdom and coming again, and promises to set a place for us.
Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”
Our Prayers -
Father Almighty, by your grace and the faith communities in which we live and move and have our being,
may we never stop learning and asking questions.
May we never stop pushing the boundaries of God’s limitless love.
May we keep our minds and hearts open to what God would have us do in this time and place as people who are reformed and always reforming…
and may we each continue to grow in wisdom and in years.
Amen
Our final hymn this morning is "We Three Kings of Orient Are"
Here is a lovely service to welcome the New Year, led by the Archbishop of York - the music is amazing!
We're really pleased to bring you the first Action for Happiness Calendar for 2021 -
And here's a round-up of all the great things which have happened last year in Leesfield Parish -
A Round-up of 2020 in Leesfield Parish
What we’ve done, what we’ve not done, and what we’ve “sort of” done
This is how we’ve adapted throughout the year, sharing our joy and our sorrows as well as worship – with our friends in this parish and new ones from further afield.
January, February and early March started the year off quite normally, with plans under way for lots of social and fundraising activities as well as our regular worship. The Churches Together Week of Prayer for Christian Unity took place at St Thomas’ Church in January, and Springhead Congregational Church welcomed their new minister.
Lent began with the Ash Wednesday Eucharist, followed by the Ladies of Leesfield AGM, and the Churches Together Lent Lunches did actually start. The World Day of Prayer at Zion Methodist Church and Lent Taize worship at St Thomas’ took place as planned, and Harvest Queen Annie managed to squeeze in a Mothers Day Sparkling Afternoon Tea just in time, on the 15th March!
Then things began to change rapidly, and at our PCC meeting on the 16th March we started to make plans for how we would adapt our worship in the light of the changing rules. Initially St Thomas’ was open for private prayer for a short while before we went into full lockdown and all church buildings were closed completely.
Fortunately our parish already had strong lines of communication, which enabled the Pastoral Care Team and the Ladies of Leesfield to keep in touch with everyone by telephone. Edith provided prayers, readings and reflections for sending out to everyone by post and email, and for sharing further afield on our blogspot and facebook pages.
Sunday school also moved onto their facebook pages, with Karen providing prayers, colouring and activities for our young people, who were by now missing their school assemblies and RE lessons as well as Sunday School.
Neil wasted no time in getting the popular “Worship for all Generations” onto the parish facebook page by recording the services from his back garden – these services reached an even larger congregation than in church as our “regulars” shared them with their friends.
April saw a huge improvement in our on-line activities, although we continued to share as much as we could by post to those without internet access. Edith joined facebook and was able to record the Gospel and a reflection every week to share with everyone on line as well as the printed versions. Holy Week was observed with Compline every night at 9 pm, and there was a reading and reflection for each day.
Easter Sunday itself was marked by sharing the Church of England service on our facebook page and blogspot – something we would not ordinarily have done! The children made Lego Easter Gardens to share photos with us, and Paul played “Thine be the Glory” on the church lawn.
We also found hymns on Youtube, which we’ve been able to make available to everyone with internet access, and at the end of the month the Church of England introduced its new “Daily Hope Line”, where people can hear hymns and reflections for free by telephone.
May is always a busy month for our churches, Sunday schools and uniformed organisations, and this year was set to be even more special with the 75th Anniversary of VE Day and the 150th Anniversary of St Agnes’ Sunday School.
VE Day was commemorated with socially distanced street parties, and lots of our young families joined in by dressing up in costume for the event. St Agnes’ Anniversary was not able to be the grand event we had been hoping for, but was celebrated in our on-line Worship for all Generations and by the Sunday school on their facebook page.
We were unable to do the usual Christian Aid Week house-to-house collections and Big Brekkie, but we held our own “Little Brekkies” at home and invited friends and family to donate to Christian Aid.
The scout groups had lots of their usual activities, just done a little differently, including Josh being invested as Assistant Beaver Scout Leader via video link.
Our annual Whit Walks were of course cancelled, but the ministers of Churches Together in Lees and District put together a joint on-line service.
Several of our families would usually support the Race for Life in aid of Cancer Research UK during June, and this year the event still took place, with participants joining in in their own way and raising money on-line for this brilliant charity.
Our own fundraising for church had taken quite a hit due to the cancellation of most of our events, but appeals to congregation members resulted in donations coming in, to enable the church bills to be paid. We had our first “Zoom” PCC meeting, and started to make plans for the re-opening of our church buildings. St Thomas’ opened for private prayer on the 21st June.
Finally, after a great deal of preparation and form-filling, in July, St Thomas’ Church was able to open for Parish Eucharists on the 12th. Edith could at last lead her final Sunday services before her well-deserved retirement on the 26th. Although Edith’s last service was not as grand as we would expect, the church was as full as it is allowed to be, with parishioners of all ages coming together to wish Edith and Stephen well for the future.
August started with a Zoom PCC meeting with Archdeacon David Sharples and our Area Dean Lyn Woodall. At this meeting it was confirmed that Lyn would become Priest-in-Charge of Leesfield Parish as well as St John Hey in due course, although this would take some time to come to fruition. In the meantime, the Churchwardens and PCC secretary arranged for our services to be covered by a number of local clergy, and it has been wonderful to welcome such a variety of visiting priests.
As we were unable to have our usual Leesfield Parish Boundary Walk fundraiser, we had a little competition instead. Paul & Liz set off in one direction and Kingsley in the other, and we asked people to say where we met up, and what time it was. Kingsley’s mum won – but we’re certain that she didn’t have any insider information!!!
Then, right at the end of the month, it was Vivienne’s 90th birthday. Because of the restrictions it wasn’t possible for her to have a big family celebration, so the Ladies surprised her with a cake and gifts.
The schools came back in September, after what for many had been a very long break. Sunday schools still weren’t allowed to meet in the school halls though, but they continued to share activities and pictures on their facebook pages.
Worship for all Generations was able to re-start at St Agnes’ Church, bringing a much-needed family service back to the parish. The service was moved from Thursday to Wednesday, but recorded to air on our facebook page on Thursdays for the growing on-line congregation. Parish fundraising received an unexpected boost when prizes donated for the cancelled Rose Queen Dinner Dance were raffled on line. Plans were also afoot for the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, which had been postponed at the end of April.
Early in October we celebrated our Harvest festival in St Thomas’ Church. Although we couldn’t have the extremely popular Harvest Lunch after the service, we were still able to collect donations of food items to be taken to Impact Community Church. Harvest Queen Annie was at the service, and the Sunday school children had written poems and drawn pictures about Harvest to display in church.
The APCM finally took place at the end of the month, and we were really pleased to welcome some new PCC members.
Our services for All Saints and All Souls were able to take place right at the beginning of November, before we were again closed for a four-week lockdown. The transition from all our services being in church to on-line and printed worship resources was much easier this time as we had continued to provide resources whilst our buildings were open, for those who had not felt ready to return just yet.
Remembrance Sunday was commemorated by our Sunday schools and uniformed organisations in very special ways, and the Ministers of the Churches Together in Lees and District prepared a video Act of Remembrance to share with all our congregations.
We were unable to gather in St Hugh’s school hall for our annual St Hugh’s Day parish service, but Mother Amy-Elizabeth, curate at St John’s, led a Zoom assembly for St Hugh’s Day, which was joined by Bishop Mark.
The first Sunday of Advent fell within the lockdown period, and instead of the Posada figures travelling from house to house around the parish, Chrissie “was” the Posada, walking around the parish and beyond to deliver special bookmarks to our congregation members. Our Sunday school children joined in the Posada journey by colouring in pictures of Mary and Joseph, displaying them in their windows and sharing the pictures on facebook.
The first Advent candle was lit by Louie and Zoe, with prayers, and the recording was shared on our facebook page.
December – St Thomas’ Church re-opened for public worship on the 6th, and St Agnes’ on the 9th. After much uncertainty it was time to plan our services for the rest of Advent and Christmas, and how we could make sure that everyone could access some form of worship over the Christmas period.
The Sunday schools had already decided to have Christingle via Zoom, using the on-line resources provided by The Children’s Society. All the resources were bagged up and collected by parents, and the children made their Christingles at home and shared all the pictures on facebook. A link was provided so that donations could be made to the Children’s Society, as the collection from our usual service in church goes there.
The Harvest Queen Sponsored Christmas Tree display went up as usual, and raised £200 for church funds even though we weren’t able to advertise the event and welcome lots of visitors. Advent and Christmas services were popular at Worship for all Generations, and continue to be shared on the parish facebook page.
The Toy Service was held at St Thomas’ Church on Sunday the 13th December, and we were really pleased to welcome Bishop Mark to lead our worship. After a suitable quarantine period the toys were taken to a local Women’s Refuge, which is where they would normally go.
We wondered a lot about whether to hold our service of Nine Lessons and Carols, as it didn’t seem that it would work without being able to sing in church. We did it though, and the music selected by Neil was a great addition to the lessons read by members of our congregations young and old. The lessons and carols were also shared electronically and in printed versions with those of our congregations who were unable to get out to the service.
The Sunday school Nativity was on Christmas Eve as usual, but on Zoom! As it wasn’t possible to have Midnight Mass at St Thomas’ this year, we all gathered for a Parish Eucharist there on Christmas Morning, which was a lovely service led by David. There was plenty for people who couldn’t get out to share in - The Church of England “Comfort and Joy” booklets were given to those without internet access, and the same reflections were made available to those with the technology and know-how!
Overall, despite 2020 being such a difficult year for many of us, we have much to be grateful for in Leesfield Parish. So many people have volunteered to help out, filling gaps caused by both the pandemic and Edith’s retirement, and stepping out of their comfort zone to take on new roles. Thank you everyone, and have a great 2021!
