My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. What my Father has given me is greater than all else, and no one can snatch it out of the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.’ John 10 : 27 - 30

Readings this week Acts 9 : 36 - end; Revelation 7 : 9 - end;  John 10 : 22 - 30

Thought for this week

Today marks the beginning of Christian Aid Week. It is poignant to remember in the light of the VE Day celebrations that Christian Aid began at the end of World War 2 to help the millions of refugees across Europe. Today Christian Aid supports the very poorest people in the world in all places where there is poverty

This week especially, with the election of Pope Leo, with the war in Ukraine still very much in the news, with yet another war breaking out between India and Pakistan, we have these constant reminders that across the world we are responsible for one another. We are connected with people across the world. We have a common humanity that runs so much deeper than any political or racial divides.

Jesus spoke of those who believe in Him as belonging to Him. This is not a matter of labels or social groupings or geography. This is the bond of discipleship and fellowship Jesus calls us into through faith in Him. Jesus calls all people to Him, to believe in Him and receive from Him. To know we are safe with Him and even receive the gift of eternal life.

Jesus says, ‘I and the Father are one’. This is the bond, the assurance, the certainty Jesus offers to everyone.

Rev Paul

Prayers for this week

Almighty God, whose Son Jesus Christ is the resurrection and the life: raise us, who trust in him, from the death of sin to the life of righteousness, that we may seek those things which are above, where he reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

Risen Christ, faithful shepherd of your Father’s sheep: teach us to hear your voice and to follow your command, that all your people may be gathered into one flock, to the glory of God the Father. Amen

Our Prayers

For peace between India and Pakistan, for the Governments involved, for those caught up in the fighting, and for those striving for peace

For Pope Leo now a world leader