The parish mass for the second Sunday after Trinity brought an interesting observation from Father Stephen Drakeley, priest-in-charge. He likened the enthusiasm of the Christians of the early church for their faith, to that of fans for the football World Cup.

He suggested that as present day fans chat about result of matches as matters of importance, so the early Christians would chat enthusiastically about their faith. He wondered if somehow we had taken the wrong way forward in the past and failed to be enthusiastic about Jesus, so that now the result of a game is of greater value than eternal life in Jesus.

The mass began with the processional hymn “All for Jesus.” Fr Stephen then greeted the congregation before leading the prayers of Contrition and Penitence.

The first lesson taken from the First Book of Kings chapter 21 v 1-21 was read by Barbara Jenkins. This is the story of King Ahab converting the vineyard that belonged to one of his subject Naboth and the terrible outcome of this greed.

Hazel Bennett then read part of St Paul’s letter to the Galatians chapter 2 v 15-21. The apostle expounds his belief that no person is justified by the works of the law, but through faith in Jesus Christ. Luke chapter 7 was the gospel message proclaimed by Fr Stephen. Jesus teaches one of the Pharisees Simon a lesson on the forgiveness of sin. In his address that followed Fr Stephen suggested that King Ahab had not set out to have Naboth killed. He compared sin to a helter-skelter at a fun fair. It starts in a small way but soon becomes and uncontrollable downward spiral.

The chalice administrators when the eucharist was celebrated were Sheila Reeve and David Fittock. David was also the server for the mass. Sidespersons were Della Rowe and Hazel Bennett. Roger King in addition to accompanying the hymns and reponses played voluntaries before and after the service.

The mass ended with the hymn “All hail the power of Jesus’ name.”

Forthcoming event: Summer Fayre on Saturday, June 19, 10am to 1pm. Stalls, raffle, games, refreshments. Admission free. All welcome, easy access.

Services next week: Wednesday, low mass, 11am; Sunday, sung mass, 10am.