The health of our faith
Winter is a time when we are beset by illnesses; we have had a few of our people from the parish in hospital, or in isolation at home due to sickness, while others of us are cautiously counting our blessings of good health and hoping that our luck (and our vaccinations) will last the winter. Our readings today focus on health; nourishment of the body; the health of the faith community, and the health of our souls.
It is timely, then, that we consider the state of health of our faith.
How is the state of our practical Christianity, in which we share our abundance with those who do not have enough to sustain their body? Do we ‘vaccinate’ ourselves against the illness that can beset those who neglect their spiritual health – by regular study of scripture, by gathering with others for mutual encouragement, and by prayer that asks on behalf of others as well as ourselves?
Are we working for the health of our faith community through using the gifts that we have been given, so that the whole church is in its’ best condition possible for spreading the gospel?
Today, as Juniper and Maddy are baptised and we welcome them into the St Mark’s family, it is an appropriate time to remember our baptism and the promises we (or our godparents) made then and how well we are living out those promises.
From the Vicar
“May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Love of God and the Fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. Amen” (NZPB p52).
Will we make the choice to live as those who love the way of God and therefore find the depth, refreshment from the true source of life? Or do we choose a life of being blown around in the breeze avoiding the true source of life that provides us with rootedness, security and life?
Isaiah has been called by God to bring the people to account for their actions. They had turned away from God and that was being shown in how they were treating their brothers and sisters. Isaiah recognises his own faults and he is forgiven by God.
Parish Officers
Parish Governance
The executive team of Vicar, churchwardens and treasurer meet constantly on parish business.
Parish Groups
Worship leaders, lay readers, servers, ushers, greeters, flower arrangers, cleaners, counters, intercessors and cup bearers all join together to support the service.
“May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Love of God and the Fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. Amen” (NZPB p52).
Will we make the choice to live as those who love the way of God and therefore find the depth, refreshment from the true source of life? Or do we choose a life of being blown around in the breeze avoiding the true source of life that provides us with rootedness, security and life?
Isaiah has been called by God to bring the people to account for their actions. They had turned away from God and that was being shown in how they were treating their brothers and sisters. Isaiah recognises his own faults and he is forgiven by God.
Community Fair bringing affordable toys, books, china, vintage clothes and more from the Opawa - St Martins Parish.