Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12
A Message from our Chaplain, Reverend Simon Brocklehurst
Dear Friends
The will of God will not take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us.” Billy Graham 1918-2018
Lent is a time of wilderness and waiting. In the wilderness which is oftentimes our lives when there seems to be no meaning, the meaning can be in the waiting, the hoping and the longing. If ever it feels like winter then we can be sure that spring is not far off.
The same was true for Jesus in his wilderness when he was tempted to give in. He was tempted with using his power for himself, tempted to worship the devil, tempted by the opportunity to misuse riches, influence and power.
In the end he was betrayed, deserted, denied and disowned by those closest to him. That Friday was a desolate one for Jesus. But it will always be remembered as Good Friday because evil was overcome by good and on Sunday death was overcome by life. It is good for us to remember these things when we feel threatened or overwhelmed by our lot. If it feels like Friday, then Sunday is coming soon!
Temporary Church Closures
St James and St Nicholas Churches remain closed for public worship in order to protect the most vulnerable and avoid spread of the virus. I will record a short devotion for each Sunday and stream to view on our website and Facebook
St James’ Church will also be closed for a few weeks due to extensive interior re-decoration
Please do be in touch with one another and with me, particularly if you or anyone you become aware of feels isolated, is ill, or would value some personal contact or care.
We continue to hope and pray that 2021 will herald a turning point for the better in our individual, community, national and global lives.
Your affectionate friend and Chaplain,
Simon
Reflections for the second Sunday of Lent
Gracious God,
as we remember before you the thousands who have died, surround us and all who mourn with your strong compassion. Be gentle with us in our grief, protect us from despair, and give us grace to persevere and face the future with hope in Jesus Christ our risen Lord.
Amen.
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Elevenses in the ZoomRoom with revsimonb on Wednesdays
10.45am for 11am
Where is your favourite place? Share your favourite holiday memories.
CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION AND HELP
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Daily Prayer Themes - Link to CofE website
Church of England online Sunday Service - 2nd sunday of Lent
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Avoiding isolation At the onset of the crisis Jim Watson, chair of the Parish Council, invited a handful of people from the community to meet together (socially distanced) to discuss a coordinated plan to care for people as the need arose. A special careline was set up, volunteer CRB checked responders were identified and several hundred leaflets delivered explaining that people could telephone the careline on 07534 770164, should they need help with shopping, prescriptions, other practical matters, or just to chat if they were feeling isolated. There have been relatively few requests or calls, but the line remains live, should anyone have need to call it
Click on the Church Guides below for a viewing of Southwick and Boarhunt Churches.
A Guide to St James Church, Southwick
A Guide to St Nicholas Church, Boarhunt
For more information go to webmaster
Any queries please ring the Chaplain on 023 9238 0802
Find out more about the Southwick Estate at -
www.southwick-estate.co.uk