He is risen. Alleluia.
We are Easter People!
I have noticed that I keep describing things as ‘incredible’. Perhaps that word should be reserved for days like this.
0445 awake and ready to set off on our sunrise hike (Margie had set her alarm at 0545...in the nicest possible way, she was hurried along!)
It was going to be a stunner; still, crisp and quiet. Everyone should be up for this.
There was an excited pace about our march to the top of the fell. We were joined by family, folk from other churches and our minister to lead a bracing, joyful service. We sang, we prayed and we declared; He is Risen. Alleluia.
A dash down the fell to warm up and recharge before heading to Appleby for Andrew's last service before he goes on sabbatical which also includes the baptism of his son, Isaac.
I have spent a lot of time with Andrew over the last year, he has been my mentor in all things ministry. (I'll have more to say about him in a future post; but needless to say I wouldn't be where I am today without him. He is a brother).
I shared with Margie before I left how I hoped the singing was going to be joyful and that there was a particular chap who if we were near each other, I know we would give each other the confidence to sing our hearts out.
I was greeted by Linda, one of the wonderful stewards of The Sands, and the Circuit's Superintendent, Stephen. I couldn't believe he didn't have another service...he did. Andrew's pulled his back. He's not going to be here. I replied:
He'll find a way. He's not going to miss this.
Stephen said:
There's been much prayer.
There was going to be more. I wasn't sad, I wasn't disappointed. I prayed. Hard. Nothing sensible or coherent or easily replicated.
A section service with 4 churches, 100 or so in the congregation, two baptisms, two new members, Easter Sunday service, it was packed with Members, families, visitors - this was going to be ace. I was ushered to sit next to...the chap I mentioned to Margie before I left! No way. I texted Margie:
And directly behind...Frank. Stop it.
Matt
We opened with Thine be the Glory.
Our opening prayers; Adoration, Confession...
Andrew 'walks' in. My brother. He's made it.
Stephen carried on leading the service. Amazing singing, joyful worship. Powerful, moving, emotional message. I am convinced. Delivered beautifully.
Stephen asked me to assist in Communion. This is surreal.
The baptisms were 'wow', full submersion. We welcomed a brother and sister into our family today. They were so confident in front of so many. Promises and declarations made, gifts exchanged. ❤️.
We ended the service with my favourite Easter hymn, Stephen asked for 'gusto'...don't you worry my friend...we gave these a run for their money:
Fellowship after the service matched every moment up to that point. Unexpected encounters, shared stories of Easter joy. Andrew and I gently embraced as brothers and wished each other all the very best. (He finishes his sabbatical and immediately joins his new Circuit). That's it.
Back home to whisk the family off to Grange for ice cream along the prom and an afternoon of sharing Easter stories. I noted here:
Matt
I have been particularly moved over the last few days of stripped altars, or the absence of The Cross; a striking reminder of what it all means. The one at Grange, a permanent feature I think, is as naked and raw as it could be: One Cross. Three Nails.
Jesus Christ, Our Lord, Our Saviour, Our Redeemer and Our Friend is Risen. Alleluia.
