The Advent of Jesus
Here we are, the third Sunday of Advent already! This week in the Gospel according to Luke (Lk 3:7-18) we are given a shake up by the words of John the Baptist. John’s words confront us as he demands that we look deeper into ourselves, to examine the way we are of living our lives and our relationships with those around us. John demands that we live with a social conscious, seeking peace with others, treating all others fairly. We are to give up our insatiable desire to consume and replace it with the expectation of the coming of Jesus.
As we wait to celebrate the advent (the coming, the arrival) of Jesus at Bethlehem, we also need to prepare for the advent of Jesus into our daily lives. Jesus who welcomes, serves and loves others. John calls us to recognise Jesus present in other people and the Joy of Jesus presence within ourselves. We need to take seriously the message that until Christ comes again each of us are to be like John the Baptist: to prepare ourselves and others for the return of Christ; for us to encourage others to welcome Jesus into their lives. Remember the sharing of our time can be our greatest gift, being truly present with other people especially at this time of year which can be lonely for many. All this we do as we wait for Jesus to come again with joyful anticipation.
God Bless you
From the Vicar
The fact that Christ is risen, that the tomb was empty, is central to our faith as disciples of Jesus.
We are confronted by how easy it is to go from the joyful singing of “Hosanna” to the baying for blood in shouting “Crucify”.
During this time the Church’s liturgy is somber and empresses a sorrowful mood as we focus more intently on the coming crucifixion of Christ.
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.
The fact that Christ is risen, that the tomb was empty, is central to our faith as disciples of Jesus.
We are confronted by how easy it is to go from the joyful singing of “Hosanna” to the baying for blood in shouting “Crucify”.
During this time the Church’s liturgy is somber and empresses a sorrowful mood as we focus more intently on the coming crucifixion of Christ.
Community Fair bringing affordable toys, books, china, vintage clothes and more from the Opawa - St Martins Parish.