News from St Andrew’s

Craig’s letter of 28 January

Revd Craig Bowman

Dear Friends

I hope you and your loved ones are managing to keep safe and well.

It is with great sadness that I have to tell you that Campbell McPhee died on Tuesday night following a short illness, not related to Covid. Many of you will know that Campbell was a member of the choir for many years, a talented pianist and he often played the organ on Sundays when we were without an organist. He was an ordained Elder and served on several committees making a valued contribution to the work of St Andrew’s over many years. Please remember Yvonne, Liz and Andy and their families in your prayers.

These lockdown days are so hard for many people and even more so for those who are coping with the illness of loved ones. Being unable to receive visits from friends and neighbours, who would offer physical support and comfort, can make things even harder. Please be aware of those you know who may welcome a phone call or a letter or note in the post.

Over the past year the majority of my preaching has concentrated on the Gospel or Old Testament readings for the week. This Sunday, unusually, I shall be focussing on the passage from the New Testament letters, which comes from Paul’s first letter to the church at Corinth. I find this a fascinating part of the Bible because two of our most precious passages - Paul’s great ode to love and his instructions regarding the Lord’s Supper – actually come to us because a church is struggling. The Corinthians are a fragmented church in some disarray in a large, cosmopolitan, multi-faith city, notorious for its licentious behaviour. This Sunday we shall explore what Paul’s message to this fledgling church says to us in an ongoing pandemic 2,000 years later.

As usual the Sunday service can be accessed by calling 020 3870 2810 or by clicking in the appropriate place on the church website.

This week may we be attentive to the voice of God that speaks in the midst of disharmony, disagreement, disaster and distress as well as in times of joy.

Craig

Posted on 28 Jan 2021