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Holy
Week and Easter
Easter always corresponds with the season of spring. For Christians it is a
great festival of joy and celebration. We know that winter does not last
forever and the days gradually lengthen and new growth and signs of life
appear. In the same way Christians celebrate the fact that death is not the
end and our life ‘but death is swallowed up in victory’. Sometimes against
all the odds we discover our lives do have meaning and a purpose good has
triumphed over evil, love has conquered fear and life is stronger than
death. This we know because of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus
Christ. So convinced were the first Christians of these things that they
called Jesus Lord. Our Easter hope is that after the most evil that the
human race can inflict upon itself the love and victory of Easter will bring
a new life and new joy to the world.
Important
Events
This joyful faith is celebrated at Easter. The church with all its
weaknesses, tries to witness to the saving love of God shown to us' that
whilst we were still sinners Christ died for us' in order that we might live
with God forever. Our varied services over this Holy period, which are
described elsewhere, and to which you are warmly invited to come, mark the
changing moods and meanings of the final events of Jesus 's ministry.
Especially can I draw you attention to the procession of witness on Palm
Sunday and Passion Narrative performed by Parish Players in church on Palm
Sunday.
During Holy Week there
are services on every day culminating with the services on Maundy Thursday
and Good Friday. I am pleased to say that the conductor of the 3 hour
service on Good Friday is the Revd John Ansell who is the Vicar of Mitcham.
I will be leading the service at his church. The Easter Ceremonies will
take place here on Holy Saturday evening and the services for Easter Day are
in the magazine diary.
Confirmation
Finally, Easter was a time when you Christians were admitted to the church.
We have at the time of writing 14 people who are preparing for
confirmation. This service will take place on Sunday 13th May at
10.00am and will be conducted by the Bishop of Kingston. We shall put the
names of the candidates on the pew sheet and would be grateful if you would
remember them in your prayers.
Weekday Services
Please note
that after Easter this month there will be fewer than usual week-day
services. Details are in the magazine.
May you have a joyful
and peaceful Easter.
Your priest and friend
Tom Leary
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