As per our Winter Covid plan, for those churches interested in participating, every other week our simplechurches will assemble on their own - either via zoom (instructions below) or in another setting. As these are unusual times, to assist the churches in a simple gathering, Andy will prepare a guide that churches can use to facilitate the gathering. It will mimic what we do on-line... you'll just do it yourself!
Liturgy | The Work of the People
Did you know that's what the word means? The word liturgy comes from the ancient Greek (Greek: λειτουργία), leitourgia, and it literally means "work for the people." It is a blending of the two words "litos ergos" or "public service".
The idea is that this is the "work" we do. The liturgy, these "ancient rhythms" are the work we do. They are the service we offer to each other and the Lord. It's the way we participate in worship!
Neat, huh? So, enjoy your work together!
How to do this?
Simple. Download the file below and choose the venue. Online, or otherwise. The first week your church leader can facilitate... but in the future, feel free to pass the facilitating around.
The Baptism of Jesus!
This Sunday the Church calendar is focused on the Baptism of Jesus. All over the world, churches are reading about this important event in Jesus' life.
But why is it important? What is happening in this story?
For the past few weeks, we have been recalling the birth of Jesus. We’ve been thinking about his very real humanity. That he was born as a vulnerable baby. Born to humble parents, born of humble lineage, grew up as a carpenter, suffered and struggled like all children.
But now, in this story, Jesus begins his ministry and as he does so, the voice of heaven speaks over him, and we discover something else. He is also the beloved Son of God!
For our reading this week, the first 2:00mins of the Bible Project video on the Gospel of Mark sets the stage wonderfully. The link is below and the Zoom host can share the screen to watch.