30 Northumberland Square | North Shields | NE30 1PW
Weekly Update #2: Sunday 29th March 2020
From the Minister
‘There is a green hill far away, without a city wall.’ As a child, singing that hymn every Easter, I used to wonder why the city had no wall. Of course, it was an old-fashioned way of saying, ‘outside’ – ‘without’ being not ‘within’. And this is our second Sunday of being a church ‘without’ a building. We still have the building, but currently we are doing church outside of it. So …
This update gives you some resources for praying and worshiping at home.
Elsewhere …we are providing ideas and activities for our young people.
Pastoral care and fellowship are going forward by telephone.
The Elders have had their first meeting together online (and survived). Next, we hope to offer Bible study and discussion groups in the same way.
In this week’s Old Testament reading, the prophet Ezekiel wonders something which has reduced to dry bones can live. God’s answer is, ‘I will put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the LORD.’ (Ezekiel 37:6) We are without a building and we are alive.
Trevor
Pray
‘If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit that dwells in you.’ (Romans 8:11)
God who dwells in me, make me aware of your presence today.
God who raised Jesus from the dead, bring life, bring health, bring healing.
God who gives life to all, guard our homes and guide our nation; give courage, patience and kindness, to me and to others. Amen.
Television BBC1 Sunday Worship 11.30 a.m.
Songs of Praise 3.15 p.m.
Bible readings for Sunday
From the Revised Common Lectionary
Ezekiel 37:1-14 A prophet’s vision of dry bones renewed and revived by God
Psalm 130 Crying out to God and awaiting a response with hope
Romans 8:6-11 Having life because God’s Spirit dwells in you
John 11:1-45 Jesus brings Lazarus back to life (Thomas is brave, not doubting)
If you don’t have a Bible at home, please let Trevor or Alison know. We will try to get one to you. Or, if you have internet, go to https://www.biblegateway.com/
‘Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications!’ (Psalm 130:1-2) At this moment in our world’s history many people are crying out; some to God, and some to God-knows-what. Fearful people are often angry people, looking for someone to blame. No one, however, is perfect. (130:3) The psalmist encourages us to practice patience, even in trying times: ‘I wait for the LORD; my soul waits, and in his word I hope. (130:5)
Keeping in Touch
We will keep in touch with each other. Elders will have a list of members and friends to contact each week, both to provide information and to ensure that people are safe and well. You can contact your designated Elder, the Minister, or Church Secretary.
Our church’s income has dropped (no rental income and no money on the Sunday collection plate). Whilst we’re not in danger of going broke it would help our income immensely if some of those who normally give via the collection plate could switch to giving via a standing order. If you are able to, could you please contact Keith, our Treasurer. Keith.[email protected] or by phone on 0191 2514553. Many thanks for your help at this difficult time.
