 The main hall, lounge, concourse and even the vicar’s office at Christ Church Parish Centre were transformed for the evening of Sunday 18 October 2009. An evening of stillness provided us with the space and free time to come before God, enjoy his welcome, peace, rest, healing and restoration.
Prayer corners have become an integral part of many church services in these parts; with a specific focus such as a simple candle, an icon, a pile of stones or other images, the worshippers are released to pray and meditate on each theme. Some prayer corners have instructions or a scriptural text; whatever the theme, we are free to reflect on what God is saying to us.
 Inspiration from the psalms, hymns and songs including 'Be still and know' and 'When I look into his holiness' helped the free-walking congregation to focus on the Saviour. Gentle music prevented creaking floorboards (and bones!) from being any embarrassment or deflection.
The prayer corners in October, prepared by reader Val Muscroft, included some stones: an opportunity to hand back to God our concerns as we allow the pebble to drown in a bowl of water. Another corner focused on relationships; yet another on God's Word; the Church, the safety and strength of a ship and the opportunity to pin a personal prayer to the hem of a garment - reflecting on the woman with an issue of blood in Matthew 9.
 The notes below are taken from the slideshow that evening, attached along with Rev Catherine Askew's handout:
Focus: Pause and wait at the entrance; become quiet and look to God for his welcome
Walking inwards: Let your pace be in harmony with the rhythm of the heart beat of your Father in heaven
Centre: As we centre our thoughts, emotions and spirit on Jesus, rest in his love, his kindness. Welcome the Holy Spirit: his transforming and life-changing fruit as well as his empowering gifts Outward journey: Let the Father’s love, healing and restoration prepare you for the outside world Exit: Turn and say ‘thank you’ to God. |
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Stillness |