GATHERING: from the back Miracles do happen. It might only be a small one:
the tiny flower pushing up through wasteland.
a dandelion dancing, landing on you in the heat of the day,
the intricate pattern of a snowflake, no two the same,
the bursting forth of spring.
Patterns in simplicity;
the miracle of friendship, the warmth of embrace,
the celebration of the dawning of a new day.

Miracles do happen.

HYMN: God Whose Love is Everywhere
God whose love is everywhere
made our earth and all things fair,
ever keeps them in his care;
praise the God of love!
He who hung the stars in space
holds the spinning world in place;
praise the God of love!

Come with thankfulness to sing
of the gifts the seasons bring,
summer, winter, autumn, spring;
praise the God of love!
He who gave us breath and birth
gives us all the fruitful earth;
praise the God of love!

See the sign of love appear,
flame of glory, bright and clear,
light for all the world is here;
praise the God of love!
Gloom and darkness, get you gone!
Christ the Light of life has shone;
praise the God of love! © Hope Publishing (HFTC)

OPENING PRAYER & THE LORD’S PRAYER
WELCOME AND NOTICES

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN ~ Wayne Barton

SONG: All Things Bright and Beautiful – NZ Version
All things bright and beautiful,
all creatures great and small,
all things wise and wonderful –
the Lord God made them all.

The wild flowers in their beauty,
the mountain ranges tall,
the deep lakes and the rivers,
and friendly birds that call.

The cold wind in the winter,
the bright life-giving sun,
the ripe fruits in the garden –
he made them every one.

The coloured walls of gorges,
the pine trees green and tall,
the rocks, and pools and palm trees,
the sparkling waterfall.

The many coloured corals,
the creatures of the sea
of forest, field or valley,
on farms or roaming free.

He gave us eyes to see them,
and lips that we might tell
how great is God Almighty,
who has made all things well. C/A

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: 1 Samuel 16: 1-13 Fern Wakefield
Mark 4: 26-34 Alice Shanks

SERMON

A TIME OF QUIET

AN AFFIRMATION OF FAITH (Dorothy McRae -McMahon adapt.)
We believe in God who created us from nothing
and goes on bringing to birth new things beyond our imagining.
We believe in Jesus Christ who entered our unknown journey
and experienced all our living; who walked in our earthiness
and can still be discovered in our midst.
We believe in the Holy Spirit who calls us on to truth
in light beyond our seeing; who stirs within our being
like a melody of new possibilities; who dances on before us
calling us to choose life in all its fullness.

THE OFFERING
God, we bring these offerings, along with the elements of bread and wine, with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for all your gifts to us. We ask that you will bless these gifts – this money and this food, that others may know your grace…

INVITATION TO COMMUNION & THE PEACE

HYMN: Let us Talents and Tongues Employ
Let us talents and tongues employ,
reaching out with a shout of joy:
bread is broken, the wine is poured,
Christ is spoken and seen and heard.
Jesus lives again, earth can breathe again,
pass the word around: loaves abound!

Christ is able to make us one.
at his table he sets the tone,
teaching people to live to bless,
love in word and in deed express.

Jesus calls us in, sends us out
bearing fruit in a world of doubt,
gives us love to tell, bread to share.
God (Immanuel) everywhere! © Stainer & Bell Ltd (CH 4)

GREAT PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to God.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give God thanks and praise.

Gracious God … proclaim your goodness and grace:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of love and light,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.

Above all, we give you thanks … proclaiming the mystery of faith:
On Good Friday he died. On Easter he rose again.
Today he lives forever.

COMMUNION

PRAYER FOLLOWING COMMUNION

HYMN: Sent Forth by God’s Blessing
Sent forth by God’s blessing, our true faith confessing,
the people of God from this dwelling take leave.
The supper is ended, O now be extended
the fruits of this service in all who believe.
The seed of Christ’s teaching, receptive souls reaching,
shall blossom in action for God and for all.
God’s grace did invite us, God’s love shall unite us
to work for the kingdom and answer its call.

With praise and thanksgiving to God ever living,
the tasks of our everyday life we will face.
Our faith ever sharing, in love ever caring,
embracing God’s children of each tribe and race.
With your feast you feed us, with your light now lead us;
unite us one in this life that we share.
Then may all the living with praise and thanksgiving
give honour to Christ and the name that we bear ©World Library Publication (VU)
THE BLESSING
NOTICES:
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us this morning. Please stay for morning tea following the service.

REMINDER: FROM NEXT SUNDAY 14th JUNE until 16th August we will have our Winter Combined services at 10.00am each week.

Singing Group meets today at 4pm in the Church. Bill 338 1651.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 10th June: Meet 9.30am at the Beckenham Service Centre. Coffee at Red Café there. All are welcome. Judith 332 1577.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS: Thursdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge. $3 a session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

FIX-IT JOBS: Do you need a hand with any little fix-it jobs around your home or property? Contact the Office – we have people who can help.

SOCIAL HOUSING FORUM: Wednesday 10th June 11am – 12.30pm with Social Housing Minister Paula Bennett. Oxford Terrace Baptist Church Hall, corner Oxford Terrace and Madras Street. An update by the minister describing the roles of various housing ministers, followed by questions and discussion about social housing issues in Canterbury. RSVP required: 379 1122 and leave a message, or email projectsupport@tpa.org.nz. Copies of questions for the minister appreciated before the meeting to allow for detailed responses.

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wed & Thurs 9am-12noon and Fri 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. Please ensure Anna has any notices by 9am Thursday each week.
Keep an eye on the website: www.stmartins.org.nz

WELCOME AND NOTICES
CALL TO WORSHIP:
God the Maker: just and creative, strong and loving.
God the Storyteller: joyful and honest, vulnerable and questioning.
God the Holy Spirit: wise and comforting, wild and challenging.
Through our God, Creator, Saviour, Spirit,
we will walk in wonder, justice, wisdom and joy.

HYMN: Praise With Joy (Tune: Praise My Soul WOV 68)
Praise with joy the world’s Creator,
God of justice, love and peace,
source and end of human knowledge,
God whose grace shall never cease.
Celebrate the Maker’s glory,
power to rescue and release.

Praise the Christ who feeds the hungry,
frees the captive, finds the lost,
heals the sick, upsets religion,
fearless both of fate and cost.
Celebrate Christ’s constant presence –
friend and stranger, guest and host.

Praise the Spirit sent among us,
liberating truth from pride,
forging bonds where race or gender,
age or nation dare divide.
Celebrate the Spirit’s treasure –
foolishness none dare deride.

Praise the Maker, Christ and Spirit,
one God in community,
calling Christians to embody
oneness and diversity.
Thus the world shall yet believe,
when shown Christ’s vibrant unity. © Iona Community (VU)

OPENING PRAYER & Jim Cotter’s Prayer
Eternal Spirit, Earth-maker, Pain-bearer, Life-giver,
Source of all that is and that shall be,
Father and Mother of us all, loving God, in whom is heaven:
The hallowing of your name echo through the universe!
The way of your justice be followed by the peoples of the world!
Your heavenly will be done by all created beings!
Your commonwealth of peace and freedom
sustain our hope and come on earth.
With the bread we need for today, feed us.
In the hurts we absorb from one another, forgive us.
In times of temptation and test, strengthen us.
From trials too great to endure, spare us.
From the grip of all that is evil, free us.
For you reign in the glory of the power that is love,
now and forever. Amen.

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: Isaiah 6: 1-8 Audrey Dunnachie
John 3: 1-17 John McKean

HYMN: I The Lord of Sea and Sky
I, the Lord of sea and sky,
I have heard my people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin
my hand will save.
I who made the stars of night,
I will make their darkness bright.
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?
Here I am, Lord; is it I, Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night;
I will go, Lord, if you lead me.
I will hold your people in my heart.
I, the Lord of snow and rain,
I have borne my people’s pain;
I have wept for love of them.
They turn away.
I will break their hearts of stone,
give them hearts for love alone.
I will speak my word of them.
Whom shall I send?

I, the Lord of wind and flame,
I will tend the poor and lame;
I will set a feast for them.
My hand will save.
Finest bread I will provide
till their hearts are satisfied.
I will give my life to them.
Whom shall I send? © Daniel Schutte & New Dawn Music (VU)

SERMON: God in Relationship

OFFERING: God, you call us to be care-givers of this earth; you call us to care for all people, in the way of Jesus; you call us to find your Spirit at work in the world. God, we bring these gifts of money and produce, along with the offering of ourselves so that we may fulfil our calling, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

HYMN: Source and Sovereign (Tune: St George’s Windsor WOV 290i)
Source and Sovereign, Rock and Cloud,
Fortress, Fountain, Shelter, Light,
Judge, Defender, Mercy, Might,
Life whose life all life endowed:
May the Church at prayer recall
that no single holy name
but the truth that feeds them all
is the God whom we proclaim.

Word and Wisdom, Root and Vine,
Shepherd, Saviour, Servant, Lamb,
Well and Water, Bread and Wine,
Way who leads us to I AM. May the Church at prayer recall…

Storm and Stillness, Breath and Dove,
Thunder, Tempest, Whirlwind, Fire,
Comfort, Counsellor, Presence, Love,
Energies that never tire: May the Church at prayer recall…
© Oxford University Press (CH 4)
WE GREET ONE ANOTHER

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: God of Unexplored Tomorrows (Tune: Marching WOV 110)
God of unexplored tomorrows,
of today and yesterday,
God of rock and flowing river,
be our refuge, be our way.

Guardian rock above, before us,
strong foundation where we build,
landmark through the haze of doubting,
shelter where our fears are stilled.

Be the cleansing, quenching water,
irrigate, disturb and move,
stir us from our easy shallows,
current of refreshing love.

God of rock and flowing river
now and ever with us stand,
to transform our land of promise
into each one’s promised land. © Beverley Jones (FFS)

THE BLESSING

NEXT SUNDAY: 9.00am St Martin’s & 10.30am Beckenham.
PLEASE NOTE: FROM SUNDAY 14th JUNE until 16th August we will have our Winter Combined services at 10.00am each week.

NOTICES:
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us this morning. Please stay for morning tea following the service.

CEILIDH: NEXT Saturday 6th June
St Martins School Hall 7.00 – 10.30pm.
Everyone is welcome. Spread the word. Bring your family and friends, and cash to purchase jams and pickles for your pantry.
A fundraiser for the Link Building. Tickets $15 each or $40 a family.
See Anneke or Irene TODAY.

NO Singing Group today. Next rehearsal Sunday 7th June at 4pm in the Church. Bill 338 1651.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 3rd June: Meet 9.30am in the Air Force Museum carpark, Harvard Ave, for a walk around some of the new housing area. Coffee at Air Force Museum Café. All welcome. Judith 332 1577.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS: Thursdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge. $3 a session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

MEN’S GROUP: Thursday 4th June 6pm Merchiston. Rev Chris Elliot will be sharing some thoughts about her time at St Martin’s. Tony 332 0554.
Beckenham Methodist is hosting a Red Cross Essential First Aid course on Saturday 13th June 8.30am-5.30pm. Cost $85 (usually $150). Please contact Stephen Gregory 337 2296 to book asap.

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wed & Thurs 9am-12noon and Fri 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. Please ensure Anna has any notices by 9am Thursday each week.
Keep an eye on the website: www.stmartins.org.nz

ST MARTIN’S BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Mon 1st Madg; Tue 2nd Rose; Wed 3rd Joan; Sat 6th Jessie.

WELCOME AND NOTICES: * Session Report

SONG: This is the Day
This is the day, this is the day
that the Lord has made, that the Lord has made;
we will rejoice, we will rejoice
and be glad in it, and be glad in it.
This is the day that the Lord has made;
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day, this is the day that the Lord has made.

This is the day, this is the day
when he rose again, when he rose again;
we will rejoice, we will rejoice
and be glad in it, and be glad in it.
This is the day when he rose again;
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day, this is the day when he rose again.

This is the day, this is the day
when the Spirit came, when the Spirit came;
we will rejoice, we will rejoice
and be glad in it, and be glad in it.
This is the day when the Spirit came;
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day, this is the day when the Spirit came. © Les Garrett (SiS)

CALL TO WORSHIP: Ethan and Ellen Doughty
We are not just once in a while friends.
We are the family of God.
We are not just a cosy club.
We are the body of Christ.
We are not just strangers meeting.
We are temples of the Holy Spirit.
We are not here by accident.
Our God has called us to worship.
We are not just passing time.
Jesus wants us to know him better.
We are not just doing the same old thing.
The Holy Spirit has some special words for us.

READING: From Acts 2:1-21 Gilly Penwell & Alexandria Connell

OPENING PRAYER: The Barton ‘Boys’

SONG: I’ve Got a Rhythm for Jesus
I’ve got a rhythm for Jesus, I’ve got a rhythm for him.
I’ve got a rhythm for Jesus, I’ve got a rhythm for him
Sweet Spirit make my life to shine with the glory of the Lord.
O Spirit, make my face to glow with the joy that I feel,
for I know that he’s real.
I’ve got a rhythm for Jesus, I’ve got a rhythm for him
I’ve got a rhythm for Jesus, I’ve got a rhythm for him
I’ve got a rhythm for him, I’ve got a rhythm for him! © Heather Camp-bell

Images of the Spirit: With Gillian and the children

SONG: Loving Spirit
Loving Spirit, loving Spirit,
you have chosen me to be,
you have drawn me to your wonder,
you have set your sign on me.

Like a mother, you enfold me,
hold my life within your own,
feed me with your very body,
form me of your flesh and bone

Like a father, you protect me,
teach me the discerning eye,
hoist me up upon your shoulder,
let me see the world from high

Friend and lover, in your closeness,
I am known and held and blessed:
in your promise is my comfort,
in your presence I may rest.

Loving Spirit, loving Spirit,
you have chosen me to be,
you have drawn me to your wonder,
you have set your sign on me. © Shirley Murray (AA)

REFLECTION: A Pentecost Image : The Pentecost Icon

OFFERING: Bless these gifts, O God, and bless us as we offer ourselves to serve you in different ways and to praise you in many voices. Send your Spirit upon us, so that when we speak the words of your love, people may hear and understand as on that Pentecost day so long ago. This we pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

SONG: There’s a Spirit in the Air (Tune: Lauds)
There’s a Spirit in the air,
telling Christians everywhere:
“Praise the love that Christ revealed,
living, working in our world.”

Lose your shyness, find your tongue
tell the world what God has done:
God in Christ has come to stay.
Live tomorrow’s life today!

When believers break the bread,
when a hungry child is fed,
praise the love that Christ revealed,
living, working in our world.

Still the Spirit gives us light,
seeing wrong and setting right:
God in Christ has come to stay.
Live tomorrow’s life today.

When a stranger’s not alone,
where the homeless find a home,
praise the love that Christ revealed,
living, working in our world.

May the Spirit fill our praise,
guide our thoughts and change our ways.
God in Christ has come to stay,
live tomorrow’s life today! © Brian Wren (CH 4)
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER

HYMN: Great and Deep the Spirit’s Purpose (Tune: Austria WOV 577 )
Great and deep the Spirit’s purpose
hidden now in mystery;
nature bursts with joyful promise,
ripe with what is yet to be.
In a wealth of rich invention,
still the work of art unfolds –
barely have we seen, and faintly,
what God’s great salvation holds.

Great and deep the Spirit’s purpose
making Jesus seen and heard.
Every age of God’s creation
grasps new meanings from the Word.
Show us, Holy Spirit, show us
your new work begun today;
eyes and ears and hearts are open,
teach us what to do and say.

Great and deep the Spirit’s purpose
all God’s children brought to birth,
freed from hunger, fear and evil
every corner of the earth.
And a million million voices
speak with joy the Saviour’s name;
every face reflects his image,
never any two the same. © Marnie Barrell (AA)
BENEDICTION
May you tread gently with the Spirit when you are confident;
may you walk humbly with the Spirit when you are successful;
may you rise grace-fully with the Spirit when you fall badly;
may you rest gratefully with the Spirit when you are weary;
and may you trust simply the Spirit, when you feel all alone …
NOTICES:
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us this morning. Please stay for morning tea following the service.

***NEXT SUNDAY: There is a combined service at 10am ***

REMINDER: Singing Group is meeting today at 4pm in the Church.Bill 338 1651.

‘MESSENGER’ is available today – please collect yours and deliver promptly.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 27th May: Meet in the main Riccarton Bush car park which is off Kahu Road at 9.30am. Coffee at Riccarton House. If you have any queries please phone Barbara and Alan 337 6202.

CARING & SHARING: Wednesday 27th May 2pm, Beckenham Methodist Lounge. Please contact Irene 332 7306 for more information.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS: Thursdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge. $3 a session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

CEILIDH: Saturday 6th June 2015 St Martins School Hall 7 – 10.30pm.
Everyone is welcome. It will be a great night of fun, dance etc. Spread the word. Bring your family and friends, and cash to purchase jams and pickles
for your pantry.
A fundraiser for the Link Building. Tickets $15 each or $40 a family.
See Anneke or Irene.
Beckenham Methodist is hosting a Red Cross Essential First Aid course on Saturday 13th June 8.30am-5.30pm. Cost $85 (usually $150). Bring a plate of cold finger food to share for lunch. They have offered St Martin’s up to four places. Please contact Stephen Gregory 337 2296 or 0274 371 565 for more information or to book asap.

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wed & Thurs 9am-12noon and Fri 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. Please ensure Anna has any notices by 9am Thursday each week. Website: www.stmartins.org.nz

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 24th Hadley; Tue 26th Barbara; Wed 27th Jim, Gillian; Fri 29th Margaret; Sat 30th Keith.

WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP:
God of grace: we know you and we do not know you:
you promise your presence yet you are mystery.
You know us and you understand us:
you love us and you call us on to a greater truth.
You welcome us and you live in us:
you are both within and entirely other.
We look for you in one another:
we look for you in our midst as we gather in Christ’s name.

HYMN: Christ is Alive and the Universe Must Celebrate
Christ is alive, and the universe must celebrate,
and the stars and the suns shout in this Eastertide!
Christ is alive, and his family must celebrate
in a great alleluia,
a great alleluia
to praise the power that made the stone roll away.

Here is our hope: in the mystery of suffering
is the heartbeat of Love, Love that will not let go,
here is our hope, that in God we are not separate,
and we sing alleluia,
we sing alleluia
to praise the power that made the stone roll away.

Christ Spirit, dance through the dullness of humanity
to the music of God, God who has set us free!
You are the pulse of the new creation’s energy;
with a great alleluia,
a great alleluia
we praise the power that made the stone roll away. © Shirley Murray (AA)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

LEARN May the God of Hope (Final Hymn)

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN ~ Gillian Cree

SONG: I’ve Got a Rhythm for Jesus
I’ve got a rhythm for Jesus, I’ve got a rhythm for him.
I’ve got a rhythm for Jesus, I’ve got a rhythm for him
Sweet Spirit make my life to shine with the glory of the Lord.
O Spirit, make my face to glow with the joy that I feel,
for I know that he’s real.
I’ve got a rhythm for Jesus, I’ve got a rhythm for him
I’ve got a rhythm for Jesus, I’ve got a rhythm for him
I’ve got a rhythm for him, I’ve got a rhythm for him! ©Heather Campbell

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: Ephesians 1: 15-23 Tony Blackler
Luke 24: 44-53 Anneke Howie

SERMON: Knowing the Power of Christ

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: Tell My People I Love Them
Tell my people I love them;
tell my people that I care.
When they feel far away from me,
tell my people I am there.

Tell my people I came and died
to give them liberty;
as they abide in me
they will be really free!

Tell my people where-e’er they go
to claim my risen power;
my peace and joy and love
is for them hour by hour.

Tell my people to share their wealth
and fight the sin of greed;
care for the refugee;
the hungry they’re to feed.

Tell my people throughout the world
to strive for peace today,
show love for enemies,
by servants of the Way. © Gospel Publishing House © Guy Jansen (AA)

THE OFFERING: God, creative and caring, just and giving,
accept the gifts we bring; to create, to care, to free, to promote justice, and to share your goodness with the world, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: May the God of Hope
May the God of hope go with us every day,
filling all our lives with love and joy and peace.
May the God of justice speed us on our way,
bringing light and hope to every land and race.
Praying, let us work for peace;
singing, share our joy with all;
working for a world that’s new,
faithful when we hear Christ’s call.

May the God of healing free the earth from fear,
freeing us for peace, both treasured and pursued.
May the God of love keep our commitment clear
to a world restored, to human life renewed. v.2 © Hope Publishing (VU)

THE BLESSING

NOTICES:
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us this morning. Please stay for morning tea following the service.

FAMILY GAMES NIGHT TONIGHT 5 – 7.30 p.m. Beckenham Church Lounge. Bring your own tea and a favourite game. Drinks provided. All are welcome.

PLEASE NOTE: There is a combined service at 10am on Sunday 31st May.

CAN YOU HELP? The Worship committee would like to borrow any ornamental wooden or tin pukekos you may have for Pentecost next Sunday.

CHRIS’ LAST SUNDAY 28TH JUNE: A lunch has been organised at the Cashmere Club at 12.30pm. $33 per head. Please put your name on the list if you wish to attend (see Allison). Payment to be made on the day at the Club. We hope as many as possible will be able to attend. The list will be available for the next three weeks or ring Allison 332 0554.

SESSION meets this Wednesday 20th May in the Beckenham Methodist Lounge.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 20th May: Ilam/Fendalton “new” streets and “new” café! Catch the Orbiter to bus stop in Ilam Rd, just before Memorial Ave (2 stops past the University). Bus departs PMH 9.06am or Barrington 9.12am. Coffee at L B & Co, cnr Creyke & Ilam Roads. Sonya 339 7038.
.
CRAFTY CRAFTERS: Thursdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge. $3 per session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

CEILIDH: Saturday 6th June 2015 St Martins School Hall 7 – 10.30pm.
Everyone is welcome. It will be a great night of fun, dance etc. Spread the word. Bring your family and friends, and cash to purchase jams and pickles for your pantry.
A fundraiser for the Link Building. Tickets $15 each or $40 a family. See Anneke or Irene.

CARING & SHARING: Wednesday 27th May 2pm, Beckenham Methodist Lounge. We’d love to see everyone – old, young, even in between! Irene 332 7306.

FOOT CLINIC: Next Session Monday 15th June 1-4pm. Phone Judith 332 1577 to book.

Ecumenical Service for the Observance of the Week for Christian Unity Wednesday 20th May at 7pm at the Transitional Cathedral. All are most welcome to attend.

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wed & Thurs 9am-12noon and Fri 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. Pop in and say hello – 7 Wilsons Rd (at the rear of the St Anne’s site near the sandpit). Please ensure Anna has any notices by 9am Thursday each week. Keep an eye on the website: www.stmartins.org.nz

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Fri 22nd: Jennifer, Judith.

CALL TO WORSHIP
Let us rejoice, for a new day has dawned.
We know the beauty of God’s Creation and the wonder of
the human family.
We remember those whose love and example has shaped our lives; those whose loyalty and faithfulness has continued in times of difficulty as well as celebration.
We gather here to worship God, to give thanks and to reaffirm our commitment to God and the task we are called to.

HYMN: Sing Praise and Thanksgiving
Sing praise and thanksgiving, let all creatures living
now worship their maker with gladness and song;
all glory and honour we come to him bringing:
O praise to the Almighty,
sing praise to our God!

Our lives of his making he brings to their waking;
in darkness he held us in his gracious care,
now into the light we are called from our sleeping:
O praise to the Almighty,
sing praise to our God!

Lord, frame our desiring to do your requiring,
that unto your glory be all that we do;
and where we have faltered, give strength and give healing:
O praise to the Almighty,
sing praise to our God! © C.A. Gibson & M. Barclay (WOV)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN ~ Gillian Cree

SONG: Go Tell Everyone God’s Spirit is in my heart,
He has called me and set me apart.
This is what I have to do,
what I have to do.

He sent me to give the Good News to the poor,
Tell prisoners that they are prisoners no more,
Tell blind people that they can see,
and set the downtrodden free.
And go tell everyone the news that the Kingdom of God has come,
And go tell everyone the news that the Kingdom of God has come.

And just as the Father sent me,
so I’m sending you out to be
My witnesses throughout the world,
the whole of the world.

Don’t worry what you have to say,
don’t worry because on that day
God’s Spirit will speak in your heart,
will speak in your heart.

READINGS:
Psalm 111: Praise for God’s Wonderful Works
Praise the Lord!
I will thank you O Lord with all my heart:
in the company of the upright, in their assembly.
Great are your works O Lord:
and to be studied by all who delight in them.
Your deeds are full of majesty and splendour:
and your righteousness endures for ever.
You have caused your marvellous acts to be remembered: you Lord are gracious and full of compassion.
You give food to those who fear you:
you keep your covenant always in mind. You have shown your people your power in action:
in giving them the heritage of the nations.
The works of your hands are faithful and just:
and all your precepts are trustworthy.
They stand fast for ever and ever:
they are grounded in truth and justice. You sent redemption to your people,
you decreed your eternal covenant:
holy and awesome is your name.
The fear of you O Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
those who revere you have good understanding:
your praise shall endure for ever.
Mark 14: 3-9 Jeannette Beaumont

REFLECTION

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: Come, Celebrate the Women (Tune : Ellacombe)
Come, celebrate the women
who brought the Church to birth!
the gentle revolution
that shall transform the earth:
whose faith was salt and leaven,
whose hearts and minds were free,
and this was their direction –
to peace and unity.

The teachers, saints and mothers
who lived and died unsung
kept safe the gospel story
and taught it to the young;
the Christ child Mary cradled,
the living Word to be
was crucified for pleading
this peace and unity.

Daughters of the disciples,
you weave the story still,
the fabric of the future
with warmth and love and skill,
you make the bread of wholeness,
the wine of harmony –
and all shall share your feasting
in peace and unity! © Shirley Murray

THE OFFERING
God, we offer you our money and these gifts of food.
We offer you our gifts and skills.
We offer you the work of our hands and hearts in the wider community and beyond.
God, may we reflect in our work and in our lives the community we have found in the sharing of the loaf; and the presence we have known in the breaking of the bread, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

THE ORDINATION OF NEW ELDERS

Presentation

Preamble
There are different gifts,
but it is the same Spirit who gives them.
There are different ways of serving God,
but it is the same Lord who is served.
God works through different people in different ways,
but it is the same God whose purpose is at work in us all.
We are all given gifts by the Spirit to use for the common good.
We have the joy of using our gifts
as members of Christ’s Church,
which is his body continuing his ministry in the world today…

AN AFFIRMATION OF FAITH
We are not alone, we live in God’s world.
We believe in God: who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus, the Word made flesh,
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence, to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others, to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen, our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us. We are not alone.
Thanks be to God. (United Church of Canada, 1968)

Vows

Congregational Vows
Do you, the members of this congregation, accept Hilary and Barry as serving elders? We do

Will you encourage them and support them in this ministry, serving with them the one Lord Jesus Christ? We will

As members of this congregation will you encourage and support all leaders, surrounding them with your love, remembering them in prayer? We will

Signing of the Formula

Prayer

Aaronic Blessing: The Lord Bless You and Keep You (WOV 572)
The Lord bless you, and keep you:
The Lord make his face to shine upon you,
and be gracious unto you:
The Lord lift up his countenance upon you,
and give you peace. C/A

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: Brother, Sister, Let Me Serve You
Brother, sister, let me serve you,
let me be as Christ to you,
pray that I may have the grace
to let you be my servant too.

We are pilgrims on a journey,
we are travellers on the road,
we are here to help each other
walk the mile and bear the load.

I will hold the Christ-light for you
in the night-time of your fear,
I will hold my hand out to you,
speak the peace you long to hear.

I will weep when you are weeping,
when you laugh, I’ll laugh with you,
I will share your joy and sorrow
till we’ve seen this journey through.

When we sing to God in heaven,
we shall find such harmony,
born of all we’ve known together
of Christ’s love, and agony.

Brother, sister, let me serve you,
let me be as Christ to you,
pray that I may have the grace
to let you be my servant too.

THE BLESSING

NOTICES:
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us this morning. Please stay for morning tea following the service.

CHRIS’ LAST SUNDAY 28TH JUNE: A lunch has been organised at the Cashmere Club at 12.30pm. $33 per head. Allison has the list available – please put your name on the list if you wish to attend. Payment to be made on the day at the Club. We hope as many as possible will be able to attend. The list will be available for the next four weeks or ring Allison 332 0554.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 13th May: Meet 9.30am in the Heathcote Valley Inn carpark for a stroll around Heathcote. All are welcome. Anneke 328 7459.
.
CRAFTY CRAFTERS: Thursdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge. $3 per session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

DEADLINE FOR COPY for “Messenger” is this Friday 15th May. Anneke (anneke.howie@gmail.com).

INVITATION TO A FAMILY GAMES NIGHT NEXT Sunday 17th May 5 – 7.30 p.m. Beckenham Church Lounge. Bring your own tea and a favourite game. Drinks provided. THIS EVENING IS FOR EVERYONE.

NEW READERS’ ROSTER available today – please check to see if there is one for you. Anna.

CEILIDH: Saturday 6th June 2015 St Martins School Hall 7 – 10.30pm.
Everyone is welcome. It will be a great night of fun, dance etc and the
Incredible Ceilidh Band have been invited to help musically and with the
dancing. Spread the word. Bring your family and friends, and cash to purchase jams and pickles for your pantry.
A very special fundraiser for the Link Building.
Tickets $15 each or $40 a family. See Anneke or Irene.

CARING & SHARING: Wednesday 27th May 2pm, Beckenham Methodist Lounge. We’d love to see everyone – old, young, even in between! Irene 332 7306.

FOOT CLINIC: Next Session Monday 15th June 1-4pm. Phone Judith 332 1577 to book.

INVITATION: The annual ecumenical service for the observance of the Week for Christian Unity is being held on Wednesday 20th May at 7pm at the Transitional Cathedral. All are most welcome to attend, and stay on for a cuppa afterwards.

BELLA’S BENEFIT BASH featuring the Jabulani Choir TOMORROW 7.30pm at Waltham School Hall (entrance off Hastings St East). Tickets available from Adrienne 942 2173. Entry by koha: Waged $15, Bring a friend $25, Unwaged $5.

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: Wed & Thurs 9am-12noon and Fri 9-11am. Phone 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. Pop in and say hello – 7 Wilsons Rd (at the rear of the St Anne’s site near the sandpit).
Please ensure Anna has any notices by 9am Thursday each week.
Keep an eye on the website: www.stmartins.org.nz

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 10th Jill; Sat 16th Kim.