On Sunday, 13th April, Palm Sunday, we began a moving walk through Holy Week. After enacting Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem at the Sunday morning Family Service, two days later we met at Orsett Church for a Taize Service on the Tuesday evening. Taize is a Christian Community in France and their worship is well known for the singing of chants or short songs, which are repeated, again and again. The Taize Community says, ‘Using just a few words they express a basic reality of faith, quickly grasped by the mind. As the words are sung over many times, this reality gradually penetrates the whole being. Meditative singing thus becomes a way of listening to God. It allows everyone to take part in a time of prayer together and to remain together in attentive waiting on God…’ We had a lovely time as we rested in the presence of God and during which prayers for healing were offered to anyone who wished to receive this ministry.
On Maundy Thursday, I went to Chelmsford Cathedral for a special Holy Communion Service when ministers of the church are invited to renew their vows made at ordination or licensing. The oils that are used for healing, for baptism, confirmation and ordination are also blessed at this service. The morning was made even more special by the presence of a group of Iranian Christian refugees who were sat just behind me and who were welcomed by our own Bishop, herself a refugee from Iran. It reiterated to me how fortunate we are in this country to be able to live without fear and to be able to worship freely. It also reminded me of the privilege of being part of a worldwide worshipping community.
In the evening, we remembered the last supper that Jesus shared with his disciples before he was crucified. We did this at Horndon Church by holding a Holy Communion Service with foot washing – something Jesus did for his disciples on that evening, reflecting his servanthood and humility.
On Good Friday morning we moved to Bulphan Church for Stations of the Cross when, using pictures drawn by Revd Max, we walked the journey of Jesus to his crucifixion. In the afternoon we joined together in a walk of witness around the village when we shared Bible readings, hymns and songs as we retold the Easter Story. And we arrived back at Bulphan Parish Room to share hot cross buns.
Our Easter Day service was at Horndon Church on Sunday 20th April, when we celebrated the joyous resurrection of Jesus, and it was lovely that 4 young people received Holy Communion for the first time. After the service there was an easter egg hunt around the churchyard.
The good news is, Easter is not over yet. The Easter season lasts for 50 days, culminating in the day of Pentecost when we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit. If you didn’t manage to get to church during Holy Week or Easter, do come along and join us as we continue to celebrate the joy of the resurrection.
Thank you to everyone who has worked hard to make Easter special in our churches.
I look forward to seeing you soon.
Take care and God bless,
Sue