Hymns are normally sung at all our Common Worship (CW) services and services of Evening Prayer but not at Book of Common Prayer (BCP) services of Holy Communion, unless stated.
The homilies project was developed so that a congregation can engage in study and discussion of the lectionary when a Priest or Reader are not available to lead the service. The files include the gospel reading, details of the other readings for the week, the homily itself which can be read out loud, discussion points and the collect for the week. They are written by a variety of people, including our bishops and archdeacons, and they are intended to be used by lay leaders who are not authorised to preach.
The Walesby Group is able to call upon the resources of three clergy licensed to their churches, supported by a wide team of lay and retired ministers. In addition to his role as Rector for the Middle Rasen Group, Revd Bryan Dixon is now Priest in Charge for the parishes of the Walesby Group and the Barkwith Group of parishes.
(For specific parish enquiries, please see the contact details on the website A Church Near You)
Wednesday 1st April: 7pm - Stations of the Cross
at St Peter's, Normanby le Wold
Thursday 2nd April: 7pm - Maundy Thursday, Holy Communion
at St Martin's, Kirmond le Mire
Friday 3rd April: 11am - Good Friday, Ecumenical Service
in Market Rasen Square
Friday 3rd April: 2pm - Good Friday, Hot Cross Bun Service
at St Mary's, East Barkwith
Friday 3rd April: 2pm - Good Friday, An Hour Around The Cross
at All Saints, Tealby
Sunday 5th April: 6:15am - Easter Day, Service of First Light
at Walesby 'Old Church'
Sunday 5th April: 9am - Easter Day, Family Holy Communion
at St Mary's, East Barkwith'
Sunday 5th April: 10am - Easter Day, Walesby Group Holy Communion
at St Andrew's, Stainton le Vale
Sunday 5th April: 10:30am - Family Praise + Annual Egg Rolling
at St Mary's, Walesby
Saturday 25th April: 9:30am - Diocesan Synod Meeting
at The Engine Shed, Lincoln University
There are a wide range of theological opinions within the church, this article reflects the views of the author
'A reflection for Easter'
One of the great traditions of Easter is the lighting of the Paschal Candle. In Walesby, we climb to the Ramblers Church and, during the Dawn Service of First Light, as the sun creeps over the hill, it is lit from a fire. Every aspect of the candle has meaning. Lighting the candle from fire symbolises the Resurrection of Christ and His triumph over death. The flame represents Jesus as the "Light of the World" (John 8:12), guiding believers out of darkness. The candle is carried into the church and smaller candles, held by the congregation, are lit from its flame, spreading the light of Christ throughout the church. The candle is made of pure white beeswax, symbolising the sinless body of Christ. It is inscribed with laurel leaves, representing victory over death. Central are a cross, the year and the Greek letters Alpha (Α) and Omega (Ω), signifying that Christ is the beginning and the end. All time belongs to God.
It will be used throughout the year, principally during the occasional offices. The newly baptised receive a candle lit from the Paschal Candle, symbolising their new life in Christ. It is often lit during weddings, promising the presence of the light of Christ in the couple’s new life together. At funerals, the Paschal Candle may be placed near the coffin, reminding the congregation of Christ’s promise of eternal life.
As Christians we live by the light of the Paschal candle. We are the Easter people. There are challenges, times of adversity. The contrast between light and dark, joy and sorrow, life and death remind us ever more urgently of the need to put our faith in Jesus. After all, the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (John 15:1).
We can see the risen Christ in our lives in every flicker of the candle, every glimmer of hope. In compassion shown to others by churches, charities and individuals. In every baptism, bringing new believers to join the Kingdom. In gestures of reconciliation and forgiveness, both corporate and individual. They join together and burn steadily, as we join our flame to theirs. Today, and every day, let us shine as lights in the world. Amen.
(Kathy Jago)
A Prayer for this Week
Living God,
your Son made himself known to his disciples
in the breaking of bread:
open the eyes of our faith,
that we may see him in all his redeeming work;
who is alive and reigns, now and for ever.
Amen.
