Thoughts penned by Rev Alison Britchfield 17th March 2020
Christ’s Church is not closed!
The doors may be shut and locked,
the lights out in the building up the street
But the Church isn’t closed.
We may be told to stay at home, self isolate,
We may be ill or too frail to come,
We may be disillusioned with the institution, or with God
But the church isn’t closed.
The Church cannot close because it is not a building
The Church is YOU, and me, and every child of God
who feels the tug of His love and senses His presence
Even in the darkness, even in the loneliness,
Even in fear or sorrow.
The Church is open, though the building is closed
It will stay open as long as His children stay open to God
And seek His presence wherever they may be.
This day Christ says to you, “I am with you always”
So take this moment to enjoy his companionship
To be still, to give thanks and to hand over your cares
And know that you do so in company with God’s family,
not only in our building, but all over the world.
A word from our Minister
I think the poem above sums up what I’d like to say to you. We may be apart physically, but we are one in Christ. If nothing else, this situation will prove to the world that we are not in control of our lives and everyone needs God! Please worship in whatever way you can. Church services are being provided by television and the internet. Here is a link to Barrhead: St Andrews where I am the Interim Moderator. They have just set it up and hope to provide meditations every week. www.barrhead-standrewschurch.org.uk or Sanctus Media.
Please keep well, keep wash your hands, keep your distance and keep praying.
God bless Ann
Finance
People have been concerned about their offerings, and the Church still needs them. Please consider contacting Ann MacMillan to arrange for your offerings to be given by Standing Order. Email jhpchurch@yahoo.co.uk 01505 342725 or 07847 312896
Ann MacMillan is also happy to accept cheques made out to Johnstone High Parish Church. Send to : Mrs Ann MacMillan, 36d High Street, Johnstone, PA5 8AH
If neither of these option suit, then please just save up your offerings if you can.