Current Series: THE BEATITUDES

26 January - Present and Future Joy; Be the Salt of the Earth - Matthew 5:1-16, 1 Chronicles 16:28-34, John 16:22-24

23 February - Blessed are Poor in Spirit; Here's to Happiness- Matthew 5:3, Ephesians 2:1-10, Revelation 3:17-22

23 March - Blessed are those who morn; Comfort me - Matthew 5:4, Isaiah 61:1-3, Romans 7:21-25, 2 Corinthians 7:8-10

27 April - Easter reflection: Salt and Light  - Matthew 5:13-16

25 May - Blessed are the meek; Be Still - Matthew 5:5, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 37:1-11

22 June - Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for Righteousness; say Yes to spiritual satisfaction

Matthew 5:6, Matthew 7:7-11, Romans 9:3-33, Romans 10:1-4, Psalm 17:15

27 July - (S:ALT @HOME) Blessed are the Merciful; why does salt matter? - Matthew 5:7, James 2:15-20, Matthew 18:21-35

24 August - Blessed are the pure in heart; you know me, you see me - Matthew 5:8, Ezekiel 36:22-28, Psalm 24:1-10, Revelation 22:1-5

28 September - Blessed are the peacemakers; follow your calling - Matthew 5:9, Matthew 10:26-31, Ephesians 2:11-22, John 14:27-31, Psalm 34:1-22

26 October - Blessed are those who are persecuted; Be the light for others- Matthew 5:10-12, Philippians 1:27-30, 2 Timothy 3:10-17, 1 Peter 1:6-7

23 November - On Earth as it is on Heaven; Heirs to God's kingdom - Matthew 5:13-16, Colossians 4:5-6, Isaiah 42:5-9

21 December * - Christmas reflection; Seasoned with Salt

This year sees us embark on a new S:ALT series looking at Jesus' teaching using the Beatitudes as our stimulus. 

The Beatitudes are complex. They are hard to live out. But they are also very beautiful. They offer an insight into Christ-like living; faith in action.

The Beatitudes are a set of blessings where Jesus describes the attitudes and qualities that lead to true happiness and a life aligned with God’s kingdom (found at the beginning of Matthew's Gospel). They emphasize humility, compassion, seeking justice, showing mercy, and staying faithful even in tough times. We feel that they remain relevant today offering counter-cultural perspective, reminding us to value kindness, peace, and integrity over material success or power. They encourage us to care for others, stand up for what’s right, and find hope and purpose in God’s promises, no matter the challenges we face today.

Over the next year, we’ll explore what Jesus taught and think about how it made sense back then and how it matters for our lives today. 

As always, S:ALT offers a free thinking space which allows people to drop in, share in conversation and enjoy each other's company, inviting each of us to Come and Rest Awhile, chat, worship through creative approaches, eat and pray together.  We will be hosting each session within Whitstable United Reformed Church (outside in the summer months in the Church garden space) in a relaxed setting, there will be food/refreshments which we can share together.