The Power of Praising God: A Reflection on Faith and Gratitude

As I sat down to reflect on a sermon I heard recently, the words of Pastor Peter Owadayo resonated deeply within me. The message centered on the significance of praising God, finding solace in His faithfulness, and the transformative power of gratitude. In this blog post, I want to share my thoughts and insights inspired by Canon Peter’s sermon on the profound impact of praising God even in the midst of trials and tribulations.

The Call to Praise and Worship

Reading from the book of Lamentations and Psalms, Pastor Peter emphasized the importance of praising God at all times. The call to praise is not just a mere suggestion but a command that invites us to respond with admiration and gratitude. As the congregation joined in singing praises and reading verses together, there was a palpable sense of unity and reverence in the act of worship.

Finding Strength in Adversity

Drawing parallels from the story of Paul and Silas in Acts of the Apostle, Pastor Peter highlighted how even in the darkest of times, we can find strength through prayer and praise. Despite being thrown into prison and facing adversities, Paul and Silas chose to sing and worship God, igniting a powerful force that ultimately brought them liberation.

Navigating Spiritual and Physical Midnight

Pastor Peter’s words on the concept of spiritual and physical midnight struck a chord within me. Spiritual midnight symbolizes the battles we face in the unseen realm, the struggles that only God can intervene in. On the other hand, physical midnight represents the turmoil we experience in our daily lives, the challenges that seem insurmountable.

Embracing Faith and Gratitude

In a world filled with uncertainties and hardships, the message of faith and gratitude shines brightly. By embracing faith like madness, as Pastor Peter eloquently put it, we can overcome our obstacles and witness the miraculous work of God in our lives. The act of praising and worshiping God, especially in our darkest moments, opens up avenues for blessings and breakthroughs.

Closing Thoughts

As I conclude this reflection on Pastor Peter Owadayo’s sermon, I am reminded of the profound truth that God’s faithfulness endures forever. In times of distress and despair, in moments of joy and triumph, praising God becomes a beacon of hope and a source of strength. Let us remember to lift our voices in praise, to sing melodies of gratitude, and to trust in the unwavering love of our Creator.

May we find solace in the words of Psalm 147:1, “Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, how good it is to sing praises to our God.” Let our hearts be filled with thanksgiving and our spirits be uplifted by the power of worship. In every season of life, let us choose to praise God, for His mercy endures forever.

In conclusion, I encourage you to take a moment today to reflect on the blessings in your life, to offer a prayer of gratitude, and to sing praises to the One who sustains you. Remember, there is power in praising God, and in every circumstance, His faithfulness remains constant.

As we journey through life, may we walk in faith, embrace gratitude, and find strength in the act of praise. Thank you for joining me in this reflection on the power of praising God. Let us continue to worship Him with all our hearts and souls, for He is indeed worthy of all our adoration.


(c) 2024-03-17 The Church of St Stephen, Downsview

Embrace the Light: Reflect on John 3:19-21

As I stand before you today, reflecting on the powerful words from John’s Gospel, I am reminded of the profound message that resonates through the verses we’ve just heard read. John chapter 3, verses 19 to 21, speak to our innate connection with the light and our struggle with darkness.

John’s words echo with truth as he writes, “And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world. And people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.” These words pierce through our hearts, revealing the powerful contrast between light and darkness, good and evil.

In a world where darkness may seem all-encompassing, the concept of light shines brightly as a beacon of hope and truth. John’s gospel challenges us to examine our own deeds and motivations, urging us to step into the light and confront our truths.

Daylight Savings Time: A Symbol of Transition

As we embark on this journey into the light, the symbolism of Daylight Savings Time could not be more fitting. The transition of time, as the clock springs forward, parallels our own spiritual awakening to the light. Just as mornings may seem darker and evenings brighter, we are called to embrace the light that guides us through every season of life.

Embracing Our Nature as Creatures of Light

Human beings, by nature, are not nocturnal creatures. We are designed to thrive in the light, to seek out the goodness and truth that illuminate our path. Like moths drawn to a flame, we are irresistibly pulled towards the light, for it is in the light that we find our true purpose and fulfillment.

The Contrast Between Light and Darkness

John’s message serves as a stark reminder of the dichotomy between light and darkness. While we are inherently drawn to the light, our human nature sometimes leads us to gravitate towards darkness, especially when our deeds are tainted with evil. It is in these moments that we must confront our own shadows and choose to step into the light.

The Call to Repentance and Transformation

Repentance is not a call to judgment or condemnation but a loving invitation to return to the light. As we expose our deeds to the light of Christ, we open ourselves up to healing, restoration, and transformation. God’s grace washes over us, offering mercy, forgiveness, and a path forward in His light.

Moving from Darkness to Light: A Journey of Faith

Our journey from darkness to light mirrors the transformative work of Christ in our lives. Each step we take towards the light ushers us into a new realm of grace and redemption. As followers of Christ, we are called to examine our thoughts, words, and actions, ensuring that they align with the light and truth of God.

Embracing the Light Within

As I conclude this reflection, I am reminded of the profound truth that “the light has come into the world.” May we, as individuals beloved by God, choose to embrace the light within us, casting aside the shadows that hinder our spiritual growth. Let us walk in the light of Christ, allowing His grace to illuminate our path and lead us to eternal life.

In Him, we find the ultimate source of salvation and grace, not only for ourselves but for the entire world. Let us heed His call to step into the light, to walk in His ways, and to be bearers of His light to a world engulfed in darkness.

May we be guided by His truth, sustained by His love, and transformed by His light, now and forevermore.


(c) The Church of St Stephen, Downsview, 2024-03-10

The Power of Christ’s Crucifixion

The crucifixion of Christ is a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles. This is because Jews wanted signs to believe in God, while Gentiles desired human wisdom to understand God.

However, Jesus addressed this in Matthew’s gospel when he spoke about the sign of the prophet Jonah. Just as Jonah spent three days in the belly of a fish and emerged to proclaim a prophetic message of repentance, Jesus himself would rise from death on the third day. This resurrection would serve as the ultimate sign that Jesus was indeed the Messiah sent by God.

At the core of the gospel proclamation is Christ’s crucifixion, which necessarily precedes his resurrection. Through his crucifixion, God’s power to redeem and save humanity is displayed. It is not a human power but a divine power to save all of creation. This truth was reaffirmed for Theadore and others during their devotions at Stations of the Cross.

Consider the response during the devotions, where we say, “We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you. Because by your holy cross, you have redeemed the world.” This reaffirms the belief that in the cross and the crucifixion of Jesus, God’s power is revealed for the redemption and salvation of the world. This salvation extends beyond Christians and has a global impact.

In our study of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, we are reminded of the grace of God. This grace, lavished upon humanity for salvation, is not initiated or originated by humans but is a gift from God. As Paul writes, “for by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, so that no one can boast.”

This is the reason why boasting about one’s salvation is not appropriate. Salvation is a gift from God and is brought about through Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection. It is not something we have earned or achieved through our own efforts. The salvation we receive is a humble and grateful response to the gift of salvation freely given by God.

Throughout history, various religious traditions have added layers upon the worship of God. The scripture readings presented in today’s script help chip away at these additional layers and bring us back to the heart of worship. The passage from Exodus reminds us of God’s teachings, given to guide our relationship with God and with one another. The gospel passage shows Jesus zealously restoring the temple to be a house of prayer rather than a place of profit.

We invite all readers, regardless of their religion or background, to reflect on what is ultimately important in their religious response to the one true and living God. Is it about specific rituals, beliefs, or external practices, or is it about prioritizing the values of Christ and recognizing him as the living God?

It is crucial to avoid dumbing down religious truth claims to fit within the wisdom of this age. Instead, Theadore encourages everyone to humbly receive with reverence and thanksgiving the gift of salvation freely lavished upon us through the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As Luke writes in the Acts of the Apostles, “there is salvation in no one else…by which we must be saved.”

No matter where we find ourselves, no matter our social location or religious affiliation, Jesus Christ has been crucified for each one of us. The only religious response that truly matters is our grateful and sincere reception of this gift. It is through our response and reception of the crucified one that we truly worship.

We conclude by stating that our relationship with God and with one another is defined by our response to this gift of salvation. Our salvation does not rely on our efforts to save ourselves but on God’s power to save us. All other ground is sinking sand.

Reflect on the power of Christ’s crucifixion teaches us the importance of accepting God’s gift of salvation with humility and gratitude. Regardless of our background or beliefs, we are invited to recognize Jesus as the living God and respond to His sacrifice with sincere worship. May we always remember the centrality of Christ’s crucifixion in the gospel message and allow it to transform our lives.

(c) The Church of St Stephen, Downsview 2024-03-03

Journeying with Jesus: A Reflection on Lent

Sermon by the Venerable Fr Theadore Hunt

As we gather on this second Sunday in Lent, I am grateful to see all of you here. Today, I want to reflect on a passage from Mark’s Gospel, specifically Chapter 8, verses 31-32. In this passage, Jesus teaches his disciples that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, be rejected by the religious leaders, and be killed, but will rise again after three days.

This teaching from Jesus marks the beginning of three predictions he will make about his own death. Just before this reading, Jesus asks his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” The disciples respond with varied answers, mentioning John the Baptist, Elijah, and one of the prophets. While these responses suggest that the people were beginning to see and understand Jesus, they lacked a deeper knowledge and relationship with him.

Jesus then turns to his disciples, those who have spent time with him, and asks them directly, “Who do you say that I am?” This question demands a personal and intimate response, based not on hearsay, but on their firsthand experience of journeying with Jesus.

One of the disciples, Peter, answers, “You are the Messiah, the Christ.” While Peter’s answer is correct, it becomes clear that he and the other disciples do not fully understand the implications of Jesus being the Messiah. They do not anticipate the suffering, rejection, and death that Jesus will have to endure. In fact, Peter even tries to rebuke Jesus for speaking about these things.

This interaction between Jesus and his disciples holds a profound lesson for us today. We too may find ourselves in a similar position, desiring to follow God’s lead but struggling when it takes us to unfamiliar or challenging places. We may feel the need to correct God’s plans for our lives. However, Jesus invites us to draw near, to move away from abstract knowledge and truly know him.

In unpacking the meaning of being the Messiah, Jesus teaches us that struggle, rejection, and even suffering are not to be avoided but endured. These hardships do not separate us from God’s love and presence. In fact, they can deepen our faith and character, ultimately leading to hope.

As followers of Christ, we are not immune to the crises and tragedies of life. We may face physical illness, the loss of loved ones, relational challenges, financial burdens, and a sense of unfulfilled expectations. But in the midst of these struggles, we are called to endure faithfully, knowing that God’s love is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

Lent, a holy season of reflection and preparation, offers us an opportunity to draw near to Jesus, to encounter him in a personal and transformative way. It is a time to let go of our distorted perspectives of God and receive his true nature.

So, in this season of Lent, let us answer Jesus’ question, “Who do you say that I am?” by moving beyond mere knowledge and truly meeting him, journeying with him. Let us embrace the struggles and uncertainties of life, knowing that God is present with us, guiding and sustaining us. May our faith be deepened, our character refined, and our hope anchored in the unfailing love of our journeying God.

As we continue our Lenten journey, may we draw nearer to Jesus and allow his teachings to shape our lives.

(c) church of st Stephen, Downsview, 2024-02-25

Feb 25: Second Sunday in Lent

 

Processional:BB038Ye Servants of God…
Gradual:BB292Thou Didst…
Offertory:BB572Blessed Assurance…
Communion:BB320Beneath the Cross of Jesus…
BB087Fairest Lord Jesus…
AblutionBB585Be Still and Know…
Recessional:BB786 Count Your Blessings…

 

Readings
GENESIS 17:1-7, 15-16; PSALM 22:22-30; ROMANS 4:13-25; MARK 8:31-38 OR MARK 9:2-9

Collect
Almighty God,
whose Son was revealed in majesty
before he suffered death upon the cross,
give us faith to perceive his glory,
that being strengthened by his grace
we may be changed into his likeness, from glory to glory;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

First Reading
A READING FROM THE BOOK OF GENESIS
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless. And I will make my covenant between me and you, and will make you exceedingly numerous.” Then Abram fell on his face; and God said to him, “As for me, this is my covenant with you: You shall be the ancestor of a multitude of nations. No longer shall your name be Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you the ancestor of a multitude of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you. I will establish my covenant between me and you, and your offspring after you throughout their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. I will bless her, and moreover I will give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she shall give rise to nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.”
GENESIS 17:1-7, 15-16

Psalm
PSALM
REFRAIN All the ends of the earth shall turn to the Lord.

Praise the Lord, you that fear him; stand in awe of him, O offspring of Israel; all you of Jacob’s line, give glory.

For he does not despise nor abhor the poor in their poverty; neither does he hide his face from them; but when they cry to him he hears them. R

My praise is of him in the great assembly; I will perform my vows in the presence of those who worship him.

The poor shall eat and be satisfied, and those who seek the Lord shall praise him: “May your heart live for ever!”

All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations shall bow before him. R

For kingship belongs to the Lord; he rules over the nations.

To him alone all who sleep in the earth bow down in worship; all who go down to the dust fall before him. R

My soul shall live for him; my descendants shall serve him; they shall be known as the Lord’s for ever.

They shall come and make known to a people yet unborn the saving deeds that he has done. R
PSALM 22:22-30

Second Reading
A READING FROM THE LETTER OF PAUL TO THE ROMANS
The promise that he would inherit the world did not come to Abraham or to his descendants through the law but through the righteousness of faith. If it is the adherents of the law who are to be the heirs, faith is null and the promise is void. For the law brings wrath; but where there is no law, neither is there violation. For this reason it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants, not only to the adherents of the law but also to those who share the faith of Abraham (for he is the father of all of us, as it is written, “I have made you the father of many nations”) in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. Hoping against hope, he believed that he would become “the father of many nations,” according to what was said, “So numerous shall your descendants be.” He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was already as good as dead (for he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah’s womb. No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. Therefore his faith “was reckoned to him as righteousness.” Now the words, “it was reckoned to him,” were written not for his sake alone, but for ours also. It will be reckoned to us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was handed over to death for our trespasses and was raised for our justification.
ROMANS 4:13-25

Gospel
THE HOLY GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
ACCORDING TO MARK
Jesus began to teach his disciples that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.” He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it. For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life? Indeed, what can they give in return for their life? Those who are ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of them the Son of Man will also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
MARK 8:31-38

Or

THE HOLY GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
ACCORDING TO MARK
Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” He did not know what to say, for they were terrified. Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!” Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus. As they were coming down the mountain, he ordered them to tell no one about what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
MARK 9:2-9

Prayer over the Gifts
God of wisdom,
may the light of the eternal Word,
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
guide us to your glory.
We ask this in his name.

Prayer After Communion
Creator of heaven and earth,
we thank you for these holy mysteries,
which bring us now a share in the life to come,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Feb 18: First Sunday in Lent

 

Processional:BB104O Worship the King…
Gradual:BB648Love Divine, All Loves…
Offertory:BB089Jesus the Very Thought…
Communion:BB460Let Us Break Bread…
BB596I Surrender All…
AblutionBB010Majesty…
Recessional:BB147 How Great Thou Art…

 

Readings
GENESIS 9:8-17; PSALM 25:1-9; 1 PETER 3:18-22; MARK 1:9-15

Collect
Almighty God,
whose Son fasted forty days in the wilderness,
and was tempted as we
are but did not sin,
give us grace to discipline ourselves
in submission to your Spirit,
that as you know our weakness,
so we may know your power to save;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

First Reading
A READING FROM THE BOOK OF GENESIS
God said to Noah and to his sons with him, “As for me, I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the domestic animals, and every animal of the earth with you, as many as came out of the ark. I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of a flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.” God said, “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh. When the bow is in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant that I have established between me and all flesh that is on the earth.”
GENESIS 9:8-17

Psalm
PSALM
REFRAIN The paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness to those who keep his covenant.

To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; my God, I put my trust in you; let me not be humiliated, nor let my enemies triumph over me.

Let none who look to you be put to shame; let the treacherous be disappointed in their schemes. R

Show me your ways, O Lord, and teach me your paths.

Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; in you have I trusted all the day long. R

Remember, O Lord, your compassion and love, for they are from everlasting. Remember not the sins of my youth and my transgressions; remember me according to your love and for the sake of your goodness, O Lord. R

Gracious and upright is the Lord; therefore he teaches sinners in his way.

He guides the humble in doing right and teaches his way to the lowly.

All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies. R
PSALM 25:1-9

Second Reading
A READING FROM THE FIRST LETTER OF PETER
Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit, in which also he went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison, who in former times did not obey, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, during the building of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were saved through water. And baptism, which this prefigured, now saves you -not as a removal of dirt from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him.
1 PETER 3:18-22

Gospel
THE HOLY GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
ACCORDING TO MARK
In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him. Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.”
MARK 1:9-15

Prayer over the Gifts
God our refuge and our strength,
receive all we offer you this day,
and through the death and resurrection of your Son
transform us to his likeness.
We ask this in his name.

Prayer After Communion
Faithful God,
in this holy bread
you increase our faith and hope and love.
Lead us in the path of Christ
who is your Word of life.
We ask this in his name.

Feb 11: Last Sunday after the Epiphany

click to connect to our worship service on…

11:00AM Sunday

 

Processional:BB224We Have Come…
Gradual:RB303Where Cross the…
Offertory:BB591Have Thine Own Way…
Communion:RBWhen I Survey theHe Leadeth Me…
BB571Trust and Obey…
AblutionBB349O How He Loves…
Recessional:BB410 Standing on the Promises…

 

Readings
2 KINGS 2:1-12; PSALM 50:1-6; 2 CORINTHIANS 4:3-6; MARK 9:2-9

Collect
Almighty God,
on the holy mount you revealed to chosen witnesses
your well-beloved Son, wonderfully transfigured:
mercifully deliver us from the darkness of this world,
and change us into his likeness from glory to glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

First Reading
A READING FROM THE SECOND BOOK OF KINGS
When the Lord was about to take Elijah up to heaven by a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here; for the Lord has sent me as far as Bethel.” But Elisha said, “As the Lord lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you.” So they went down to Bethel. The company of prophets who were in Bethel came out to Elisha, and said to him, “Do you know that today the Lord will take your master away from you?” And he said, “Yes, I know; keep silent.” Elijah said to him, “Elisha, stay here; for the Lord has sent me to Jericho.” But he said, “As the Lord lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you.” So they came to Jericho. The company of prophets who were at Jericho drew near to Elisha, and said to him, “Do you know that today the Lord will take your master away from you?” And he answered, “Yes, I know; be silent.” Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here; for the Lord has sent me to the Jordan.” But he said, “As the Lord lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you.” So the two of them went on. Fifty men of the company of prophets also went, and stood at some distance from them, as they both were standing by the Jordan. Then Elijah took his mantle and rolled it up, and struck the water; the water was parted to the one side and to the other, until the two of them crossed on dry ground. When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me what I may do for you, before I am taken from you.” Elisha said, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit.” He responded, “You have asked a hard thing; yet, if you see me as I am being taken from you, it will be granted you; if not, it will not.” As they continued walking and talking, a chariot of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them, and Elijah ascended in a whirlwind into heaven. Elisha kept watching and crying out, “Father, father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!” But when he could no longer see him, he grasped his own clothes and tore them in two pieces.
2 KINGS 2:1-12

Psalm
PSALM
REFRAIN God reveals himself in glory.

The Lord, the God of gods, has spoken; he has called the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting.

Out of Zion, perfect in its beauty, God reveals himself in glory. R

Our God will come and will not keep silence; before him there is a consuming flame, and round about him a raging storm.

He calls the heavens and the earth from above to witness the judgement of his people. R

“Gather before me my loyal followers, those who have made a covenant with me and sealed it with sacrifice.”

Let the heavens declare the rightness of his cause; for God himself is judge. R
PSALM 50:1-6

Second Reading
A READING FROM THE SECOND LETTER OF PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS
Even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus’ sake. For it is the God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
2 CORINTHIANS 4:3-6

Gospel
THE HOLY GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST ACCORDING TO MARK
Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” He did not know what to say, for they were terrified. Then a cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!” Suddenly when they looked around, they saw no one with them any more, but only Jesus. As they were coming down the mountain, he ordered them to tell no one about what they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead.
MARK 9:2-9

Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God,
receive all we offer you this day,
and bring us to that radiant glory
which we see in the transfigured face
of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Prayer After Communion
Holy God,
we see your glory in the face of Jesus Christ.
May we who are partakers of his table
reflect his life in word and deed,
that all the world may know
his power to change and save.
We ask this in his name.

Feb 4: 5th Sunday after the Epiphany

 

Processional:BB008Come Thou Almighty…
Gradual:BB639Dear Lord and Father…
Offertory:BB408How Firm A…
Communion:BB505He Touched Me…
BB118His name is…
AblutionBB079My Jesus I Love…
Recessional:BB575 Leaning on the…

 

Readings
ISAIAH 40:21-31; PSALM 147:1-12, 21C; 1 CORINTHIANS 9:16-23; MARK 1:29-39

Collect
Merciful Lord,
grant to your faithful people pardon and peace,
that we may be cleansed from all our sins
and serve you with a quiet mind;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

First Reading
A READING FROM THE BOOK OF ISAIAH
Have you not known? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to live in; who brings princes to naught, and makes the rulers of the earth as nothing. Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown, scarcely has their stem taken root in the earth, when he blows upon them, and they wither, and the tempest carries them off like stubble. To whom then will you compare me, or who is my equal? says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high and see: Who created these? He who brings out their host and numbers them, calling them all by name; because he is great in strength, mighty in power, not one is missing. Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord, and my right is disregarded by my God”? Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
ISAIAH 40:21-31

Psalm
PSALM
REFRAIN Praise the Lord who heals the brokenhearted.

Hallelujah! How good it is to sing praises to our God! how pleasant it is to honour him with praise!

The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel. R

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

He counts the number of the stars and calls them all by their names. R

Great is our Lord and mighty in power; there is no limit to his wisdom.

The Lord lifts up the lowly, but casts the wicked to the ground.

Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God upon the harp. R

He covers the heavens with clouds and prepares rain for the earth;

He makes grass to grow upon the mountains and green plants to serve mankind. R

He provides food for flocks and herds and for the young ravens when they cry.

He is not impressed by the might of a horse, he has no pleasure in the strength of a man.

But the Lord has pleasure in those who fear him, in those who await his gracious favour.

Hallelujah! R
PSALM 147:1-12, 21C

Second Reading
A READING FROM THE FIRST LETTER OF PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS
If I proclaim the gospel, this gives me no ground for boasting, for an obligation is laid on me, and woe to me if I do not proclaim the gospel! For if I do this of my own will, I have a reward; but if not of my own will, I am entrusted with a commission. What then is my reward? Just this: that in my proclamation I may make the gospel free of charge, so as not to make full use of my rights in the gospel. For though I am free with respect to all, I have made myself a slave to all, so that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though I myself am not under the law) so that I might win those under the law. To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law) so that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, so that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that I might by all means save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings.
1 CORINTHIANS 9:16-23

Gospel
THE HOLY GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST ACCORDING TO MARK
As soon as they left the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her at once. He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began to serve them. That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. And the whole city was gathered around the door. And he cured many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place and there he prayed. And Simon and his companions hunted for him. When they found him, they said to him, “Everyone is searching for you.” He answered, “Let us go on to the neighbouring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.” And he went throughout Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons.
MARK 1:29-39

Prayer over the Gifts
God of compassion and forgiveness,
receive our offering this day,
and make us one with him who is our peace,
Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Prayer After Communion
Eternal God,
in you we find peace beyond all telling.
May we who share in this heavenly banquet
be instruments of your peace on earth,
in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord.

Jan 28: 4th Sunday After the Epiphany

 

Processional:BB001Praise My Sould the King…
Gradual:BB428In Christ There is No East…
Offertory:BB143This Is My Father’s World…
Communion:BB690He Leadeth Me…
RB233O Spirit of the Living God…
AblutionBB640Sweet Hour of Prayer…
Recessional:BB347 And Can It Be?…

 

Readings
DEUTERONOMY 18:15-20; PSALM 111; 1 CORINTHIANS 8:1-13; MARK 1:21-28

Collect
Living God,
in Christ you make all things new.
Transform the poverty of our nature
by the riches of your grace,
and in the renewal of our lives
make known your glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

First Reading
A READING FROM THE BOOK OF DEUTERONOMY
The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you shall heed such a prophet. This is what you requested of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly when you said: “If I hear the voice of the Lord my God any more, or ever again see this great fire, I will die.” Then the Lord replied to me: “They are right in what they have said. I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their own people; I will put my words in the mouth of the prophet, who shall speak to them everything that I command. Anyone who does not heed the words that the prophet shall speak in my name, I myself will hold accountable. But any prophet who speaks in the name of other gods, or who presumes to speak in my name a word that I have not commanded the prophet to speak – that prophet shall die.”
DEUTERONOMY 18:15-20

Psalm
PSALM
REFRAIN The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

Hallelujah! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, in the congregation.

Great are the deeds of the Lord! they are studied by all who delight in them. R

His work is full of majesty and splendour, and his righteousness endures for ever. He makes his marvellous works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and full of compassion. R

He gives food to those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant.

He has shown his people the power of his works in giving them the lands of the nations. R

The works of his hands are faithfulness and justice; all his commandments are sure.

They stand fast for ever and ever, because they are done in truth and equity. R

He sent redemption to his people; he commanded his covenant for ever; holy and awesome is his name.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; those who act accordingly have a good understanding; his praise endures for ever. R
PSALM 111

Second Reading
A READING FROM THE FIRST LETTER OF PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS
Now concerning food sacrificed to idols: we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. Anyone who claims to know something does not yet have the necessary knowledge; but anyone who loves God is known by him. Hence, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that “no idol in the world really exists,” and that “there is no God but one.” Indeed, even though there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth – as in fact there are many gods and many lords – yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist. It is not everyone, however, who has this knowledge. Since some have become so accustomed to idols until now, they still think of the food they eat as food offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. “Food will not bring us close to God.” We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do. But take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. For if others see you, who possess knowledge, eating in the temple of an idol, might they not, since their conscience is weak, be encouraged to the point of eating food sacrificed to idols? So by your knowledge those weak believers for whom Christ died are destroyed. But when you thus sin against members of your family, and wound their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food is a cause of their falling, I will never eat meat, so that I may not cause one of them to fall.
1 CORINTHIANS 8:1-13

Gospel
THE HOLY GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST ACCORDING TO MARK
They went to Capernaum; and when the sabbath came, Jesus entered the synagogue and taught. They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him. They were all amazed, and they kept on asking one another, “What is this? A new teaching – with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” At once his fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee.
MARK 1:21-28

Prayer over the Gifts
God of steadfast love,
may our offering this day,
by the power of your Holy Spirit,
renew us for your service.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord.

Prayer After Communion
Source of all goodness,
in this eucharist
we are nourished by the bread of heaven
and invigorated with new wine.
May these gifts renew our lives,
that we may show your glory to all the world,
in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord.

Jan 21: 3rd Sunday After the Epiphany

 

Ablution:
Processional:BB182For the Beauty of the…
Gradual:BB650O For a Heart…
Offertory:RB176Take Up Your Cross…
Communion:BB185Jesus Loves Me…
BB343Amazing Grace…
BB488Just As I Am…
Recessional:HYMNO Jesus I have Promised…

 

Readings
JONAH 3:1-5, 10; PSALM 62:6-14; 1 CORINTHIANS 7:29-31; MARK 1:14-20

Collect
Almighty God,
by grace alone you call us
and accept us in your service.
Strengthen us by your Spirit,
and make us worthy of your call;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

First Reading
A READING FROM THE BOOK OF JONAH
The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time, saying, “Get up, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you.” So Jonah set out and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly large city, a three days’ walk across. Jonah began to go into the city, going a day’s walk. And he cried out, “Forty days more, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!” And the people of Nineveh believed God; they proclaimed a fast, and everyone, great and small, put on sackcloth. When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind about the calamity that he had said he would bring upon them; and he did not do it.
JONAH 3:1-5, 10

Psalm
PSALM
REFRAIN Take refuge in God, all you people.

For God alone my soul in silence waits; truly, my hope is in him.

He alone is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold, so that I shall not be shaken. R

In God is my safety and my honour; God is my strong rock and my refuge.

Put your trust in him always, O people, pour out your hearts before him, for God is our refuge. R

Those of high degree are but a fleeting breath, even those of low estate cannot be trusted.

On the scales they are lighter than a breath, all of them together. R

Put no trust in extortion; in robbery take no empty pride; though wealth increase, set not your heart upon it. R

God has spoken once, twice have I heard it, that power belongs to God.

Steadfast love is yours, O Lord, for you repay everyone according to his deeds.R
PSALM 62:6-14

Second Reading
A READING FROM THE FIRST LETTER OF PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS
I mean, brothers and sisters, the appointed time has grown short; from now on, let even those who have wives be as though they had none, and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no possessions, and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away.
1 CORINTHIANS 7:29-31

Gospel
THE HOLY GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST ACCORDING TO MARK
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea – for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. Immediately he called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, and followed him.
MARK 1:14-20

Prayer over the Gifts
Loving God,
before the world began you called us.
Make holy all we offer you this day,
and strengthen us in that calling.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord

Prayer After Communion
Gracious God,
our hands have taken holy things;
our lives have been nourished by the body of your Son.
May we who have eaten at this holy table
be strengthened for service in your world.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ the Lord.