“God moved hearts all around the world so
That I could experience freedom…”
As June was drawing to a close, the church family at St. James’ enjoyed a special Morning Worship service led by LLM Nicola and Rev. Naomi, focused on ‘hearts’ and ‘parts’.
Taking inspiration from Romans (one body, many parts), Rev. Naomi handed out multiple gift bags to children, eager to receive a gift.
Judging by puzzled facial expressions and glum looks, not one child seemed enamoured with their solitary gift…a whisk, baking parchment, a half-used bag of sugar, a block of butter, a tub of bicarbonate of soda, chocolate chips…UNTIL they realised that collectively, their many parts had the potential to make up one amazing whole – a chocolate chip cookie!
Of course, when the biscuits were handed round, that earlier disappointment was instantly replaced by utter joy.
Mini activity stations gave the youngsters time and space to develop their learning further, with sheets to colour and prayer cards to fill in.
Rev. Naomi welcomed two special guests whom we help support financially and with prayer throughout the year in their missionary roles. Working in South-East Asia for the past eleven years, they shared some insights into their evolving role, helping people on the sidelines and in bondage, working in communities and ministering along the way. Stories of their unique calling, together with hearts full of love, made engaging listening.
Moving forward, they will be working in inclusion roles and bringing people together, especially in special religious education settings.
The over-arching message of the service, was that whether we are called to different countries as missionaries, or we stay close to home with familiar routines, we all have a vital part to play in God’s amazing church on earth.
A shared Jacob’s Join lunch completed a lovely morning and there was even a special nineth birthday to celebrate…with a caterpillar cake!
