One of the traditions of All Saint’s Day is to remember those who have died: our friends, family members, and fellow believers. These are the “saints” who have gone before us to heaven. Who would you like to remember today?
November – and St Mark’s are looking to Remembrance
“I am the light of the world” said Jesus – referring to our lives here on earth, and our lives after – in eternity. Jesus light shines powerfully in our lives; and often when we’re at our darkest, focusing on Jesus sees illumination all the brighter.
The story of the ten lepers who were healed: but only one came back to say thanks. Do we desire something from Jesus rather than Jesus himself? Will we settle for a moment relief – or will we look below the surface to see more than new skin?
Have you ever read a book and really loved it? Have you then dreaded the news that a film is being made of that book – can it live up to how you imagained the characters would be in your head when presented on the big screen? As Jesus came home and read in the synagogue from Isaiah, how would those who knew him from childhood react – as the character they’d read so often from their scriptures was not the king they likely imagined!
Notices for Sunday 27th October, with details of our upcoming services and events at St Mark’s.
Autumn is a season of many changes. Starting new schools, new classes, new jobs, a new season of life. This can bring great fear and anxiety, things we want to bring before God in prayer.
Pennington Poppies are back! People from across our communities have been hard at work knitting and crocheting poppies. Revd Rachel Noël, the Priest-in-Charge at St Mark’s Church Pennington, appealed to the whole community to get involved. So far, almost 2,000 poppies have been made this year by people across the community, from the church, the WI, the bingo ladies at Pennington Sports & Social Club, local care homes, and many others – these will be added to the 2,000 that had already been made last year!
Blind from birth; never to see a sunrise, a smile. He was a life waiting to be born: today, he became a new creation – a living testimony to Jesus healing work. Yet those around were unable to see him – as if they did, they would have to confront their own blindness.
It’s a strange, even bizarre idea that Jesus shares: that by his leaving his followers will actually be to their advantage. What advantage can there be in loneliness and sadness? But would we recognise the promise that what is to come is greater: the spirit? But more importantly – are we open to what accepting the Spirit means to our lives?