Jeffrey John says that we commonly get stuck with miracles asking, 'but could that have really happened?'This he says is to mistake the shell for the kernel. His book invites us into the message behind the miracle stories: into a Kingdom where everyone is included and healed.We meet at 7.30pm on Tuesday evenings in Lent, starting in the Christina Room in St John's, then we alternate week by week in each church. Copies of the book are available online.
In the spirit of doing something positive for Lent, instead of giving things up, we are going to pray for our community road by road, each day during Lent. If you are aware of anyone who needs prayer please tell Jo in strict confidence on fmvicar@gmail.com, or using the contact page on this site.The full calendar is attached. Let Jo know if there are any places missing, please.
So many people love St John's. Were you married, or christened here? Do you remember someone you love here? Do you enjoy Christingle or Christmas here? Have you had fun in the panto?Whatever your link, will you 'Be an Angel' and sponsor a special day's running costs so that our beloved church can keep running for all the community? You could make this a special present for someone you love: perhaps your grandparents were married here and you can sponsor their anniversary? We keep a book of honour in St John's, listing our Angels and their special days. We write and thank you personally each year. Best of all, you help us to keep on giving to Markyate.(Running costs means the cost of heating, lighting and insurance as well as some building maintenance. The congregation pays the 'parish share' separately to pay for the vicar's stipend, pension and other support from the diocese.)Please contact parishofficefm@gmail.com to Be an Angel
How do you like your hymns? Traditional, with soaring descants, modern worship songs, Iona style....We all have different tastes, but we can all choose our hymns. It's very easy. We work in small groups, a month at a time, together. We use the readings for each Sunday to help us see a theme or themes for that day.An opening hymn calls us to worship: it might be cheering or welcoming. The hymn before the Gospel is usually shorter and may call upon the Holy Spirit to help us hear God's word. The hymn while the offering is collected and the altar laid might reflect on the readings or upon offering or communion. A post communion hymn might be gentle, personal and reflective. Our final hymn sends us out to share God's work and do his work. A hymn has so much more meaning when it's the one you chose! Come and join in.
