God’s great love to all who serve Him,
Serving each and every kind,
Our God loves us now and always,
Who we are, He loves us all.
In the name of Christ we gather,
In the name of Christ we sing,
Celebrate new vows, New promise_ of a whole life's offering,
here ordained to lead God's people
at the Gospel's beckoning
Today was 'The Big Day' for Curates, as they were priested! I went along for the jolly occasion, to support two wonderful people, Andrew Maud, Curate of St Andrew's and St Barnabas in Wellingborough. And Evie McNally, curate at St Peter's Weston Favell and Kettering General Hospital.
I have had the privilege to spend time in their ministry as I worship as a singer and or the organist. And they are both absolutely amazing!
I've heard amazing sermons from both, I've watched great things happen. Two examples, one for each, and as they read this, I bet they know what I am going to write!!
A while back, I sang at Choral Evensong. And as unfortunately seems the future for such a splendid service, The congregation was in its diminished few! There were some visitors who we hadn't seen before. And a very clever vicar, mentioned in the opening notices that we would give a few pointers as to what to do, which 'bit of paper' you need. And as for when to stand or sit. - "Just follow Revd Evie!"
The shocked look on Evie's face in that moment was an absolute picture, but she aced it, as she aces everything she does with grace, elegance and care!
As for Andrew. What a man! If in doubt - "Ask the Curate" Midnight Mass (a bit earlier than usual) started, and I questioned if we could sing verse 7 because technically it wasn't midnight! The answer from this clever man, "We wear White for Celebration, from the start, so, Yes!!"
He is also the very first curate I have met who has started his sermon by wearing his Welding Mask!! What a sermon that was too!!
In the ministry of preaching,
may your Word spring into life;
in the time of doubt and challenge,
may its truth affirm belief;
and in days of pain and darkness,
heal the hurt of guilt and grief.
May God Bless you both, your cohort, and all Priests, Deacons, and ALL who serve Him.
You're Great!
And it is a privilege to be a part of your ministries!
Ellie x
God's Great Love To All © Ellie J Wooding (Harrison Cook Music)
In the name of Christ we gather © Shirley Erena Murray)
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