I don't know about you but I can't quite believe we're so far through Lent already. The radio told me that today is the first day of Spring and the snow we had last week in Orkney has cleared, the daffodils are out, and the sun is shining so maybe I might just believe Holy Week and Easter are just around the corner!
Next Sunday's service is led by the Rev'd Sue McCoan. Sue works with two of the readings set for next Sunday: Ezekiel 37:1-14 (the vision of the valley of dry bones) and St John 11:1-45 (the raising of Lazarus). Sue suggests working with these readings to draw out the theme of God bringing life in seemingly impossible circumstances. Scattered dry bones need to be brought together before life can come. Lazarus, Jesus, Mary and Martha all separated by distance and death all were united in the end. As normal the Worship Notes contain a range of prayers, reflections on the readings and suggested hymns to help you as you craft worship. You can find the Worship Notes here
Recognising that the Worship Notes are prepared a long way ahead of time we also offer Weekly Intercessions. The Rev'd John Grundy sent in, early this morning, suggested intercessions for next week which can be found here. They can be used in small groups, Sunday worship or for personal use.
Looking further ahead, all the Worship Notes for Holy Week, Easter and the rest of April are already available and we hope by the end of the week to have May's material posted too. I will also put together a set of hymns suggestions for every week of Eastertide - it's often easy to forget the season lasts for 7 weeks.
I hope you have Spring-like weather and that your preparations for Holy Week and Easter are going well.
With every good wish
Andy
The Rev'd Andy Braunston,
Minister for Digital Worship
