Worship Leader – Stewart Wood
Readings: Isaiah 56.1, 6-8. Romans 11.1-2a, 29-32. Matthew 15.[10-20] 21-28
We had a very good turn out in church on Sunday with uplifting singing accompanied by Alison.
The theme of the service was how we look at human division and that the gospel of love is for all.
“My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples. 8Thus says the Lord God, who gathers the outcasts of Israel, I will gather others to them besides those already gathered.” (Isaiah 56 v7-8)
Stewart Wood, Lay Reader who led our service spoke about the divisions throughout human history and in the present day leading to wars, fear, suffering and injustice and how politicians often use these divisions in a negative way to advance their own careers and agenda. He said that these divisions are often very complex and difficult to fully understand.
In the gospel reading Jesus is approached by a non-Israelite Cananite woman asking for healing for her daughter. The disciples wanted to send her away, perhaps knowing that Jesus was in need of rest and respite from the crowds. At first Jesus rejects her plea which seems a strange and uncharacteristic response from the loving, healing Christ. However her faith and clever reply leads his to change his mind.
Stewart explained that at this point in his ministry Jesus was focusing on reaching the Jewish people and it wasn’t till after his resurrection that he commissioned his disciples to spread the good news to all people. We are also called to share the message of God’s love for all.
In the notices Stephen Parratt told us about the labyrinth retreat led by Fiona this coming Saturday 22nd August to which all are welcome.
News of the Scottish Episcopal Church throughout Scotland can be seen via InSpires the online Newsletter. Subscribe via https://www.scotland.anglican.org/subscribe/
A new issue of Bishop Nick’s Diocesan Newsletter “Together” has also been published recently
Subscribe via the sign-up box at the bottom of this webpage: https://www.glasgow.anglican.org/
The current Diocesan resource for Mission is Natural Church Development. Leaflets are at the back of the church and hall for every member of the congregation to have one. See also the website https://www.naturalchurchdevelopment.org/
Labyrinth Retreat—Saturday 22nd August—9.45am to 12.30pm—Westerton Church, G61 1HX
A contemplative walking-reflecting-praying experience led by Fiona Parratt and Sylvia Jones
