At Evensong lead by the Rev Edward Johnsen, the focus was on Acts 11:1–18 and John 13 31-35 this was a wonderful discussion on love … Acts 11 … This passage recounts Peter explaining his vision of the clean and unclean animals and how God directed him to share the gospel with Gentiles. The emphasis is on God’s inclusive love. Peter’s realisation that “God has granted repentance that leads to life even to the Gentiles” (v. 18) reveals love as boundary-breaking, welcoming all people into God’s grace. Love in this context means seeing others as God sees them, beyond cultural or societal divisions, and embracing them with openness and acceptance. John 13:31–35 In this passage, Jesus commands His disciples to love one another as He has loved them. This is a love characterised by humility, sacrifice, and selflessness, as shown by Jesus washing His disciples’ feet earlier in the chapter and foreshadowing His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. The call to love one another is not just an ideal but the defining mark of discipleship: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (v. 35). Combined Reflection on Love These passages highlight two dimensions of love: inclusive love (Acts 11) and sacrificial, Christlike love (John 13). Together, they show that love transcends barriers, seeks the good of others without self-interest, and is the identifying trait of a follower of Jesus. To love as God loves is to extend compassion and kindness freely, building a community where all are valued and nurtured.It was a beautiful service.Illustration: Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet (public domain)
A Summer Church The wind has swept, a gentle grace, From sunlit skies to this sacred space. A church of stone, where shadows play, And golden summer light holds sway. The silent air, a gentle hum, As fading day begins to come. The church stands still, a tranquil sight, And whispers secrets in the night. The windows gleam, a soft, bright glow, As twilight paints the landscape low. The pews are empty, yet they hold, A story whispered, brave and bold. The stillness deep, a sacred peace, Where summer's light begins to cease. And in this church, so calm and bright, We find a solace in the night.(photograph: William Aitchison (Wink)
The new Bishop of Carlisle has been announced.Downing Street has announced that His Majesty The King has approved the nomination of the Rt Rev Rob Saner-Haigh as the 68th Bishop of Carlisle.Read about it here
VE Day Commemoration: Today, we pause to honour the memory of the brave soldiers from Nicholforest who gave their lives during the Second World War. Their courage and sacrifice remain a lasting testament to the cost of freedom and the strength of our community in times of great trial.In recent months, members of our PCC have been undertaking careful research into the lives of those who served, particularly those from our own parish. This has deepened our understanding and appreciation of their stories—stories of resilience, duty, and devotion.If you would like to look through this, at the back of the church you will find a newly prepared brochure on our findings and offering reflections on those whose names are etched on our War Memorial and on gravestones. This includes not only those from the Second World War, but also those who served and died in the First World War.Let us continue to hold these names in sacred remembrance — not only today, but always — as we give thanks for their lives and pray for peace in our time.Prayer of Remembrance and GratitudeGracious and Eternal God,On this day of remembrance, we come before You with grateful hearts.We give thanks for the courage and sacrifice of the men and womenfrom Nicholforest and beyond,who gave their lives in the Second World War,and in the First World War before it.We remember especially those from our own community,whose names are engraved in stone and in our hearts—young lives given in the cause of peace, justice, and freedom.May their memory be a blessing and a guide to us always.Lord, we thank You for the peace we enjoy today,and we pray for all who still live in the shadow of war.Grant wisdom to the leaders of the nations,and raise up peacemakers in every land.Bless the work of those who preserve these stories,who tend memorials and keep the flame of remembrance burning.May we be faithful in honouring the pastand in shaping a world where love triumphs over hate,and peace overcomes all fear.In the name of Jesus Christ,the Prince of Peace,Amen.
