St Martin’s

The vicar the Rev Andrew Moreland presided and preached at the 9.30am service of Holy Communion. His sermon, based on the readings for the day, emphasised the call of Jesus for those who follow him to be aware of the barriers that can separate us from sharing the love of God. In particular how long held disagreements between individuals can be a closed door through which we will need to pass if we are to understand fully what God in Jesus has given us; look for reconciliation and healing, says Jesus, not an easy task sometimes, but is something needed before there can be true love shared. Jean Donovan led the prayers and assisted with the distribution of communion. Edna Burton accompanied the hymns on the piano, and Janet Lamb gave a bible reading. Doreen Livesey and Elizabeth Chapman were sidespersons and Julie Stephenson served refreshment assisted by Clare Firth.

The Rev Moreland also led the all-age service at 11am. After referring to the ways human love is expressed in songs, poetry and letters, he explained that the Bible is God’s love letter to his people and talked about deepening our experience of God’s love and ways we can show our love for him.

Richard Fuller (guitar) led the sung worship with John and Sue Grice (guitar and bass) and John Taylor (drums). Liz Cremer led the prayers and also acted as sidesperson, and Elizabeth Bradley served refreshments after the service.