The Ponderings of a Meandering Minister…
I’ve been fascinated by the Tenebrae service since it was drawn to my attention by a retired minister while I was the Worship Development Leader for the Methodist Church in Ireland. It’s similar in format to a service of lessons and carols, but with the bible readings (‘shadows’) pointing us towards Jesus’ death rather than … Read moreTenebrae Reflection: Dark Places
This morning, our local church expressed their thanks for our ministry amongst them over the last five years. It’s a bit of a weird transition – I’ve been on compassionate leave since Christmas, and the lovely Ruth Craig has been the minister since July, but we still live in Ballynahinch and consider the Methodist Church … Read moreA Word for Ballynahinch Methodist Church
In January the Methodist Church in Ireland encouraged us to consider the theme, “Covenant and Choosing” so we could take extra time on the meaning and impact of the ‘Covenant Prayer‘. The third service focused on Christ at the Centre, using Luke 10:1-12. What follows is an excerpt of the script I was working from … Read more12 Practical Tips On How To Do What Jesus Wants Us To Do
On Sunday 13 June 2010 I was ordained as a minister of the Methodist Church in Ireland. Which probably leaves some readers wondering what I’ve been doing for the previous two years! Suffice to say that upon leaving College we were considered ‘on probation’ before making the lifelong commitment to serve the Church. One part … Read moreOrdained to Equip the Saints
It’s been a strange old week, a mixture of our first Easter in a new setting, a return to Castlewellan to visit Craigmore Youth Club’s Easter Camp, and the death of my other grandmother. Another fantastic lady! And again, I was invited to share a few words at her funeral. The text is below: I’ve … Read moreNana
This post comes with a warning – perhaps I’m being harsh! But in my continued thoughts on Psalm 100 last week a parody – or reality? – came into being… “Mumble with a faint glow of smugness about the Lord, all you who could be bothered to attend tonight.Give a little to God, grudgingly; sing … Read moreReality of Psalm 100
I’m preparing a sermon on Psalm 100, and in so doing have been reminded of what worship could be (as opposed to what it so often is, as described recently by Mr. Campton!). So picture this, worship in the style of Psalm 100: I imagine a vibrant, warm, energetic crowd of people, tumbling into the … Read moreWhat Worship Could Be
One of my Grannies died last month, and we miss her muchly. At her thanksgiving service – which was a beautifully powerful offering of worship – I said a few words, which I share now with you… “Gran’s been telling me I’d make a ‘great little minister’ for decades now. I’m not sure about ‘great’… … Read moreGran