Shipley Church Self-Service Sunday 6th September 2020

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Shipley Church Self-Service

Sunday 6th September 2020

Thought for the Week – Where two or three are gathered together in my name

Today’s gospel reading explores how we are to deal with difficulties that may arise between us, and how disagreements should be settled. (Matthew 18:15-20) Paul also speaks in his letter to the Romans of how Christians are to behave towards one another – Love your neighbour as yourself. (Romans 13:8-10) Jesus explains that if you have an issue with someone in the church, offer them opportunities for making amends, but understand that in all such circumstances Jesus will be there with you throughout the process – There am I in the midst of them. The Bible says that the Holy Spirit is present whenever believers adopt the habit of meeting together, eating together and worshipping together.

The anonymous text that is usually called the Prayer of St Francis is a widely known Christian prayer for peace. Margaret Thatcher, after winning the 1979 general election, paraphrased it on the steps of 10 Downing Street: Where there is discord, may we bring harmony; where there is error, may we bring truth; and where there is despair, may we bring hope . . . etc. The hymn version of the prayer is “Make me a channel of your peace”, which follows. 

Hymn

Make me a channel of your peace

Make me a channel of your peace

Where there is hatred, let me bring your love,

Where there is injury, your pardon, Lord,

And where there’s doubt, true faith in you.


O Master, grant that I may never seek

So much to be consoled as to console,

To be understood, as to understand,

To be loved as to love with all my soul.

Prayers

We pray that we may grow in respect for human dignity, and use our own liberty with scrupulous care not to infringe the rights of others, having concern and mutual respect for their needs and challenges.

Note: The Gospel and Readings set for today can be downloaded from the top right hand corner of this page.