Renewing our Covenant with God
On Sunday December 27, our Worship Service will be focused on a Covenant Renewal Ceremony from the Methodist Tradition of John Wesley. This liturgy is a serious call to holiness, repentance and faith, and has often been used as at the New Year renewal for personal and corporate renewal. it is presented here so that we may consider the commitments of these prayers and prepare for the Sunday Service.
Leader: "Come, let us join ourselves to the Lord in an everlasting covenant which will never be forgotten" (Jer. 50:5, RSV).
All: Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden; cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love You, and worthily magnify Your holy name through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Gospel:John 15:1-8
The Lord's Prayer: A Primer
Our Sunday school is putting a focus on some pretty basic things this year: the 23rd Psalm, the Great Commandments, the Apostle's Creed, and, of course, the Lord's Prayer.
The problem with teaching the Lord's Prayer is not just old fashioned words like "Thee" and "Thine" but also in unfamiliar concepts such as Hallowed (Holy, honoured) and Kingdom (the total rule of God, the only ruler with an actual divine right!)
I've been searching for simple wording, but decided that I couldn't make it as simple and concise as Jesus did (big surprise there!). I've opted here for slightly simpler language suplemented by explanatory notes. I hope it helps to highlight what Jesus' priorities were when he taught the disciples not only how to pray but what to pray about.
Daddy, our heavenly father, we bring to you our prayer list:
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we pray that your name would be honoured:,
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that people and all things would be moved to love, joy, holiness, awe and adoration when ever they think of your Son Jesus, the Holy Spirit and yourself;
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An Introduction to Christian History
Many have questions about the Christian Church. How did we get so many denominations? Catholics and Protestants share most of the same history, a mixture of mistakes and grace. How did we get to where we are today, and what can we learn from our past?
You can explore your questions at St. Andrew's Christian Church, each Thursday at 10:00 am, October 15 - December 10. All are welcome! St. Andrew's is located at 739 St. Jean St. Rockland.
Our instructor, Bert Hopkins has a tremendous grasp of the subject, and is a very engaging teacher. The course will look at our greatest moments and worst mistakes honestly and humbly.
Week of September 13-21
From Pastor Brian: With my mom in hospital this week, I'm away in Guelph/Kitchener until Thursday.
Her triple bypass went extremely well - thanks for your prayers.
Our Purposeful Church Group and Wednesday night Bible Study will meet as scheduled despite my absence.
Wednesday morning at 10:00 am, Purposeful Church will be examining the topic of helping members become mature Christians( Purpose Driven Church, Chapter 18), while the Bible Study Group at 7:00 pm will be looking at Chapter 21 of 'The Story' by Max Lucado. We have extra copies of the story in church office for you, if you want to come out for the first time.
Lise Baxter: Spiritual Director, wife, mother, friend.
Our beloved friend passed away June 4, 2015 just after 1:30 am. Lise had cerebral aneurysm three weeks previously,and, despite successful surgery, she suffered a subsequent stroke which led to further decline.
Her suffering has ended, and through Christ's grace we can trust in the promised resurrection in which she will enjoy eternally the presence of the Saviour she has loved so well in this life.
Remember that Lise's blog, which she kept until three weeks ago, is still on our website at www.rocklandchurch.ca/Lise . May her close walk with the Lord continue to encourage you.
I know that we will all continue to support Neil with our love, prayers and encouragement as he and his family adjust to their loss. Likewise, let me know if you desire prayer or encouragement as we go through this grief together.
Rev. Brian Wilkie.
