Cornerstone No. 190, page 2
Dear Friends,
Notes from
the Manse
In coming to church Sunday by Sunday it’s perfectly
normal to find that certain habits and expectations grow
within us. For example, over many years we have be-
come accustomed to being handed an order of service
only to find now, that it’s a service handout. This is
something which has come from the work of the Worship
Team and we acknowledge that it’s a change… and of
course, and for some people a loss, leading to the
question..
All I can say is that the introduction of a Service Handout
is not accidental. It’s the fruit of discussion across the
worship team. It is part of the response to critical
comments in the congregational survey and submitted to
the Presbytery Local Church Review visit last year.
The Service Handout does have purpose and good intention. As you will see
when you look at it, the sheet now has a clearer emphasis and focus on our
spiritual nurture. There’s still an order in the service! In fact that has not
changed and is shown “section by section” on the screen during worship
services.
The Service Handout is a tool for us to use! In the moments before the service
begins the handout can be used to help us prepare. We can look up and read
the hymns or the readings and we can pray using the prayer topics or sit and
mull over the thought for the day! It is expected that sheet will be taken home
and serve in the same way through the week, encouraging Bible reading whilst
also helping us stay mindful of the prayer requests and the worship themes.
Members of the Worship Team are aware of the challenge some people feel in
this development. However, I urge you to embrace this initiative and allow it to
become a familiar and fruitful tool! The Worship Team intends to meet regularly
this year and you are very welcome to come along and participate in the work.
Your minister and friend,
Ian