Dear friends,
Today I bring before you some information for your prayer and reflection.
Recently we conducted a Survey regarding service times, the number of Sunday services and styles of worship.
The results of the survey can be seen in graphs in the foyer of the church.
There were two trends which seemed to stand out.
1. An 8AM service seems to be desirable. (especially in winter months as many struggle to wake and leave their beds.)
2. People seemed to be happy having two different services —traditional and family
So how do we proceed?
1. We can continue as we are at present, with an 8:00am service in January and on special parish occasions.
2. Have two services—8AM Traditional on Sunday and family style service 5PM Saturday
3. Have one service only, at 8AM and cater for children.
For many reasons we are reluctant to go down the path of one service only. This would involve a great deal of compromise.
Please note that not all parishioners responded and, of course, we did not survey prospective members of our congregations from the wider community. This last point is important especially given the gospel imperative “19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’
Please pray that the Spirit of God will open our eyes and hearts to know the Creator’s guidance. Over the next few weeks the wardens, parish councillors, and I will be canvasing those who would be most affected by any change in service times – the 9am congregation. In all this we are seeking to be “the Body of Christ”, bearing the gospel to the world. Please pray for us all as we discern the will of God for our mission.
Blessings
Reverend Shan