Minster Lifeline #24
3 September 2020
Rev. Irene writes:
I write this letter on the first day of autumn, (meteorologically speaking) the sun is shining yet there is a definite change in the air. Most of us will relate autumn to the September equinox which occurs this year on the 22nd September. There is something incredibly special about the chilly mornings and evenings and the leaves showing their first signs of reds, browns, and oranges.
Despite all that has happened (or in many cases not happened) in the past six months, time carries on and we travel through the year one season rolling into the next. The garden baskets and plants are showing signs of the end of the flowering season and many will soon disappear into the earth for a time of rest before they spring forth once more to bring delight and colour to our gardens.
The changing seasons never fail to surprise me yet in Ecclesiastes we are told:
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.
Amazing promises from an amazing God. I feel challenged as we move from summer to autumn to look for something changing each day, the cloud formations, the colour of the sky or even just a falling leaf. I love the words of psalm 19 which begins, ‘The heavens declare the glory of God, the skies proclaim the work of his hands’ and then finishes with ‘may the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.’
If you get the opportunity, I suggest that you look at psalm 19 this week.
I am delighted that John Lawson has written for us this week, John is still smiling after the wedding of his daughter Ruth, a fabulous day and hopefully he will include a photo for us! Over to John:
At two o’clock on Saturday 22nd August my daughter Ruth married Mike Raynor at Hull Minster; the first wedding at the Minster since February.
Our family lockdown story is interwoven with ‘The Wedding’. The original date set for Mike and Ruth to marry was planned for May 24th, 2020. That plan was washed away by the March lockdown and decisions had to be made about cancelling that date and rearranging. Like many couples this year, they had to consider when weddings would be possible at a time when nothing seemed possible.
Optimistically, as lockdown progressed, Ruth and Mike began to plan for a wedding at the Minster on the 22nd August. By the time this seemed achievable, churches had only recently reopened for private prayer and services were tentatively re-starting. When it was announced that wedding services could be held again there was no possibility of public banns being called and a special licence was required. Only thirty people were allowed at the service; difficult decisions were needed and tearful phone calls to relatives made. Later, there were announcements about masks and, for a fortnight, uncertainty about receptions. I saw my role as father-of-the-bride as offering wise and comforting words at a time of stress; I soon discovered this was often like introducing petrol to a raging fire!
Throughout all this the clergy and staff at the Minster were marvellous at helping us through the process, particularly Reverend Anne and Alasdair. But it was a real team effort and the flower arrangements by Doreen and Jean added a festive feel to the ceremony. On the day guests commented on the calmness the ceremony created and the grand setting of the Minster added to this. Visitors to the Minster often comment on the beautiful building we worship in, but what struck me on that Saturday was how it helped bring a serenity that washed away all the tribulations that had been faced in the previous months. All too soon they were signing the certificate at the ‘Mousey’ Thompson table before walking back down the aisle, this time as husband and wife.
Outside the Minster, in Trinity Square, I was amazed at how many people had come along to wish Ruth and Mike well. Neighbours and friends were there, as well as aunts and cousins; but complete strangers too, who seemed to enjoy the opportunity of seeing a positive event taking place after months of gloom. During the week before the wedding I prayed for a day of positive memories for Ruth and Mike; thanks to the help of so many people I think that day was achieved. -John Lawson
Rev Irene concludes:
On Wednesday this week, Mandy hosted a Family Craft and Story session, this went very well and an enjoyable time was had by all. It was great to see so many children along with their parent/carers in the Minster once again so keep your eyes out for news of future events.
OPENING TIMES FOR PERSONAL PRAYER AND VISITORS
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 12–3 pm
*Please note: Saturday 12th September The Minster will be closed for a wedding.*
On Sunday there will be an online service at 10am and a live service in the Minster at 11:15 am. If you would like to be in the Minster for the service at 11:15 please book a place on-line here or by telephoning the office on 01482 224460.
Dan adds: Will you consider setting your alarm for 11:02 each day?! Jesus teaches on prayer in the Bible in Luke 11:2, and we would love for you to pray ahead of the Alpha course which begins at 7pm on the 8th September. Several people have already signed up, and we are excited to be hosting the course again, this time on Zoom. Please set those alarms!
And, if you or anyone you know would like to explore the Christian faith more then you can book onto the Alpha course here.
Readings:
The Collect for this week.
Almighty God,
You search us and know us;
may we rely on you in strength
and rest on you in weakness,
now and in all our days;
through Jesus Christ our Lord
AMEN
September Prayer Diary
Daily prayer points throughout the month of September can be found here.