Worship

From darkness to light: the Advent procession –Salisbury Cathedral, UK

This annual service, ‘From Darkness to Light’, held in Salisbury Cathedral starts in complete darkness.  A single candle is lit, and the light spreads throughout the cathedral until hundreds of lights burn brightly illuminating the vastness. These words from the programme set the scene: “The darkness is at one and the same time a comforting […]

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We were wrong, a confession — Lauren Mallaby, Australia

We were wrong: We were wrong when we closed the door and you needed us most. The people who claimed to follow a man who never closed doors appeared to slam ours when you were despairing confused hurt hopeless broken hungry thirsty for more. We were wrong when we pretended we couldn’t see didn’t know […]

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Blue Christmas

The Christmas season is not always a happy time. — Mary Oliver (from Thirst, Beacon Press, Boston, 2006) The Advent and Christmas seasons can remind us of loved ones or relationships we have lost. The sights and smells of the weeks approaching Christmas, rather than bring joy and delight, can bring sadness and grief. A “Blue […]

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Advent, time to pray and prune — Angie Brock, USA

Peace be within your walls and quietness within your towers. Psalm 122:7 I think of Advent as a “pray and prune” time –a whole liturgical season in which to weed and prune in order to reset our hearts and souls as we prepare for and make the pilgrimage to the manger. Advent is here. As […]

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Psalm 16, Call to Worship – Ana Gobledale, UK

Inspired by Psalm 16 2nd Sunday of Easter, Year A 26th Sunday of Pentecost, Year B 3rd Sunday of Pentecost, Year C Come! Rejoice! For we are in the presence of the Holy One.      We turn our eyes and hearts toward the Light of Love. Be glad and rest secure in the Eternal One. […]

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