Locum letter for the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany

Welcome back to those who have been away or perhaps are joining us for worship today after a break. Please join us for morning tea and the “sausage sizzle to follow”. A welcome back to members of the choir and to Roger Brown our Musical Director. Special thanks also to Cyril Thomas for playing the organ during the holiday season. Holidays are now over for the time being and its back to work, school and parish activities. Please see the calendar in this bulletin for details of Ash Wednesday services and the Pancake party on the 13th February.

Paul is on the defensive in today’s reading from Corinthians. There have been other teachers who have made their way into the community of Corinth, preachers who can boast of their eloquence, who expect to be rewarded for their words. The reading is a lively expression of Paul’s feelings and joy in preaching. He is prepared to give up everything for his Lord.
Today’s Gospel is another typical day in the ministry of Jesus. He is among the crowd healing and teaching. In the morning he makes time for prayer.

As we prepare for Lent may we take a few minutes out of our busy day for prayer and mediation. It works wonders helping is to focus and be prepared.

Shalom

Ray