For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. Colossians 1 : 16 - 17

Readings this week Isaiah 55.12−end; Psalm 96; Colossians 1.15−20; John 1.1−14; or Matthew 8.23–27

Festival of Creation in Christ – from the Church of England

“We live at a time when the beauty, abundance and interdependence of the world are both more visible to us and more threatened by us. But a Christian understanding of how to react to the challenges of our age must begin with praise for what God has done in creation, and in the new creation in Christ. The new Festival invites the Church to recover the doctrine of creation as a living source of worship. Creation is the gracious act by which God gives being to all things, the continuing generosity by which God sustains all things, and the theatre in which the mystery of Christ is revealed. The Father is maker of heaven and earth; the eternal Word is the one through whom all things were made; the Holy Spirit is the giver of life. When the Church celebrates creation in Christ, it is drawn into the praise of the Holy Trinity.

In the risen Christ the new creation has already begun: our broken world is being renewed, and creation itself waits with eager longing for the glorious liberty of the children of God. The Church looks back to the beginning, beholds the world held together in Christ, and looks forward to the renewal of all things in him. Without that last intention, care for creation can become anxious, burdensome or moralistic. With it, such care becomes an act of hope, a sign of reconciliation, and a participation in the renewing work of God”. 

Prayer for this week

Holy and eternal God, you are the Maker of heaven and earth, you are the Word through whom all things were made, and you are the Spirit, the giver of life: draw us into the mystery of your love, that with all creation we may proclaim your praise, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

O God and Father of all that was, is and ever shall be, help us to be thankful for all that is made at the hands of your Son and through the wisdom of your Spirit, that we may care in heart and in deed for the life of our world, to the praise and glory of your holy name. Amen

We give thanks for…..

Those being married at this time

Our PCC’s meeting at both churches

The Resurrection of Jesus, and the new creation