Over 60 people gathered on Sunday afternoon for our monthly Messy Church, where we were thinking about Jesus ascending to be with his Father, and promising his friends, and us, the gift of the Holy Spirit.During our crafts, we made models of Jesus ascending to heaven, and wooden images of him behind the clouds. We were also able to watch a bottle rocket launch, reminding us of Jesus going up to be with his Father. A video is available on Facebook here. <span style="font-size: 1rem;">We also thought about the promised gift of the Holy Spirit, and made hats representing the tongues of fire which came on the disciples' heads. </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">As part of our worship, we made prayer stars, which opened out revealing our prayers when we put them in water. While we waited for them to open out, we were able to celebrate the Eucharist together at a Messy Mass, prior to sharing food and fellowship. A great time was had by all!</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Why not join us next time for Messy Church, on Sunday 16 June, 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm in Church.</span>
It was wonderful to welcome Bishop Julian, together with Archdeacons Mark and Michael, and Area Deans and Lay Chairs from Blackburn with Darwen and Leyland, together with our own Deanery for tonight's Primary Visitation service. During the service, Churchwardens were sworn into office, and received their staffs from one of the Archdeacons, or the Bishop himself, together with a brief moment of prayer for them as they begin their new year's term. In addition, Vision Champions were commissioned for a three-year term, as they seek to work with the clergy and lay leadership of their parishes to implement the Diocesan Vision 2026.During his Charge and Sermon, Bishop Julian launched his Bible Challenge, encouraging all Christians across the diocese to engage with the Bible, and to ensure that we have a bank of resources to base our faith upon. He reminded us that the Bible was for all traditions across the Church, and quoted Pope Francis, who has spoken of his well-worn Bible as his greatest treasure, being with him for over half his life, supporting and encouraging him in his ministry.The Collection at the Service was in aid of the Bible Society, which seeks to bring God's Word to all peoples across the world, particularly in areas where access to the Scriptures is difficult or near-impossible. Bishop Julian reminded us of the story of Mary Jones, who at the age of 15 walked 26 miles barefoot to purchase a Welsh Bible because she did not have one.At the end of the service, there was an opportunity for clergy and laity from across the three deaneries, and beyond, to share fellowship over tea and cakes.
Thomas Leeming has been working hard on the latest Quiz Night, to be held in the Church Club on 27 April at 7.30 pm. Doors will open at 7.00 pm and it will be £5 entry per person, payable on the door. However, for catering purposes, people are asked to register their intent of coming along by letting Thomas know by Easter Sunday, April 21. Thomas is available in Church after the Sunday and Wednesday services, or feel free to call 01257 482471 to leave a message. Supper will be available during the evening, and there will also be a raffle. Any offers of raffle prizes will be gratefully accepted. Categories in the quiz will include General Knowledge, Music, Pictures and Dingbats. Don't say 'I don't know anything', because the winning team may not be the one with the most knowledge but will certainly be the one with the most correct answers - and there is a difference!All proceeds from the Quiz Night will go to the Roof Repair Fund. It promises to be an evening of fellowship and fun, and as Thomas says, 'Fundraising begins with "fun", so come along and have some fun with us.'
This year's Holy Week will reflect on the theme of the Beatitudes, picking up on the Church of England's Pilgrim Journey which we have been promoting and following. All are most welcome at any of the services during this Great Week. The leaflet is available as a pdf below, and all services are highlighted on this website.The main services are as follows:Palm Sunday, 14 April: Mass 8.00am; Liturgy of Palm Sunday 10.30 am; Chrism Mass 6.00 pmMonday 15 April: Mass and Address 7.00 pmTuesday 16 April: Mass and Address 7.00 pmWednesday 17 April: Mass and Address 9.30 am; Mass with the Sacrament of Healing 7.00 pmMaundy Thursday, 18 April: Liturgy of the Last Supper 8.00 pmGood Friday, 19 April: Messy Church 9.30 am; Meditations on the Passion 12.00 noon; Liturgy of Good Friday 1.30pmHoly Saturday, 20 April: Easter Vigil with Baptism and Confirmation 8.00 pmEaster Day, 21 April: Mass 8.00 am; Sung Mass and Baptism 10.30 am
