FROM THE MINISTRY TEAM

I have to say this last month has been a challenge for me in a few ways. We had our ‘Faith in Flowers’ at St Mary’s Gosbeck and we have had some extremely hot weather at the same time. We have not had a flower festival at Gosbeck for in excess of twenty years. A few of us were up for it - a few weren’t - but those of us who said yes gave it a go.

The displays were inspired by Bible characters who lived by their faith. As we progressed we found it wasn’t difficult to fill the spaces available with such characters.

I took on the story of Moses in the bulrushes. A friend assisted me in the church and others gave me some of the components and we created the display. But, what about the real thing when Moses mother decided to put him in the river when she could no longer keep his existence a secret for fear of him being one of the baby boys killed? How did she feel when she actually put him in the water? What about his sister, Miriam, who kept watch over him until he was found by Pharaoh’s daughter? What about Pharaoh’s daughter who took Moses to the palace to care for him with a huge risk of her father being angry? These three ladies all put their faith in God into practice - What a mother! What a sister! What a daughter!

The Parable of the Mustard Seed was represented by Cynthia and Charlotte when Jesus told his followers the Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed which, although very small, will grow into a very large plant which will attract birds to shelter. Personal faith may start from humble, almost invisible,

beginnings but it possesses the power to grow, expand and offer refuge.

Rosemary’s display was titled ‘Will Your Anchor Hold in the Storms of Life?’ The anchor in flowers was delightful and gave this wonderful hymn an even more special meaning. The hymn asks believers if their faith will remain steadfast and secure during the trials of day to day life and of course we all know there are many. The chorus tells us tells us that our faith and hope in Christ is immovable. The words are incredibly dramatic in nautical imagery.

This is just a few thoughts on ‘Faith in Flowers’ and there was so much fellowship and friendship evident - meeting old friends and new – all affirming our Faith in God in lots of beautiful flowers.

Thanks to Judy and all who helped in any way at all with the event and those who visited our beloved St Mary’s. We thank God for a joyful weekend even though it was very hot weather!

Psalm 100: vv 4 – 5

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.”

Hazel

Lay Elder