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Dear parishioners and friends,
HOLIDAYS & WORSHIP: Can we reverse the trend of recent years, and devote more
time to worship when we have extra free time instead of less? - as a thanksgiving
to God! I am told that when the work force at Devonport Dockyard changed to a
five-day week, and did not work on Saturdays, there was less commitment to worship
on Sundays, when the weekend became two clear days instead of one. We must also
remember that the word 'holiday' is derived from 'holy day'; in schools, many
of which had a church connection, special weekdays like Ascension Day meant starting
the day with an act of worship and then having the rest of the day off for recreation.
Sunday*, the first day of the week is the day of recreation and resurrection;
the day when a change from work helps to recharge the batteries. What better than
to begin with worship, when our witness together as a congregation encourages
others. It can be a negative signal if you are not present. Worship of God the
Creator is the first step in re-creation and renewal - so vital to us in mind
and spirit as well as the physical aspect. If you are away from home, as many
of you will be in the summer months, make sure you visit a local church and worship
as you would at home.
That lovely prayer about the right use of Sunday comes to mind, and which says
it all. Let us pray that the Lord's day may be kept holy.
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ALMIGHTY GOD, who has given a day of rest to thy people,
and,
Through the Spirit in the Church, hast consecrated the first day of the week to
be a perpetual memorial of thy Son's resurrection.
Grant that we may so use thy gift that, refreshed and strengthened In soul and
body, we may serve thee faithfully all the days of our life; Through the same
Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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With every blessing,
Yours sincerely,
John Fairweather.
*Christians changed from the Jewish Sabbath (the day of preparation)
which was on Saturday, to Sunday as the day of Resurrection. Instead of "do nothing",
Christ's command to "Do this" (celebrate the Holy Communion) is obeyed. The Lord's
family, in the Lord's House, meeting to share the Sacrament of his command, on
the Lord's Day.
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