In the time between Christmas and Lent the church celebrates various events that bring Light to the world in different ways. In the depths of our winter you are invited to join us in listening to conversations between our Chaplain, Alison, and friends.
1. The Epiphany
When you read Matthew 2:1-12 what do you find most relevant and striking in the story?
How do you feel about journeying home by an unknown way? You may like to read the Whirlow blog entry for January 2024, and reflect on the poem by Rayelenn Sparks Casey. You might also like to read the poem The Journey of the Magi by T S Eliot and reflect on this.
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2. The Baptism of Christ
Can you imagine yourself present in this story? Are you an observer or do you take part in some way?
What does this story teach us about our relationship with God? You can look at the image of the Baptism of Christ that Mark refers to on the National Gallery website
The password to access the recording is: 5aiyu.mu
3. The Conversion of Paul
This event is recounted in Acts 9:1-22
It must have been a puzzling and possibly frightening experience for Paul’s companions. How do you think you would have felt and responded if you had been with Paul when this happened?
Malcolm talks about the difference between knowledge and experience in this conversation. How did you come to your faith? Do you find knowledge, understanding or experience more convincing?
You may like to read and reflect on this poem by Malcolm Guite reflecting on the experience of Paul.
The passcode to access the recording is: i@Lyw8?0
4. The Presentation of Christ in the Temple
Luke 2: 25-38
In our final recording Judith talks about the close of the Christmas season and the focus on the revelation of Jesus to humanity. Anna and Simeon recognise the infant Jesus as the “Light of the World” foretold by the prophets.
Are there symbols of the turning of the year from winter to spring or the coming of the Light that are meaningful or helpful for you?
Judith mentions St Brigid, and the tradition that she lit the way to the Temple for the Holy Family. When and how might you feel called to light the way?
You may like to read and reflect on this poem by U A Fanthorpe, which foreshadows the future for Jesus.
The passcode to access the recording is: 3Z7$#4C4
All the above sessions are free, but we are grateful for any financial support you are able to give.
Photo by Sapan Patel on Unsplash