Our Church is Open Daily – All Are Welcome We are delighted to share that our church is now open every day for visitors and members of the community. Whether you are seeking a quiet moment of reflection, interested in the rich history of this ancient and prayerful place, or simply curious to step inside, you are warmly invited to come in. Explore the peaceful atmosphere, admire the historic architecture, and take time to sit in stillness or prayer. Tea and coffee making facilities are available should you wish to linger a little longer. Brochures and leaflets about the church and its history can be found inside, along with a beautiful book detailing the story of our church through the ages – available for purchase. For those researching their family history, a special book (belonging to the church) listing memorials and gravestone inscriptions in the churchyard is also available. This may be a helpful and meaningful resource for you discovering links to the past. "My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples." – Isaiah 56:7 Come as you are, and feel at home.
A Note of Gratitude Today, at the end of our Palm Sunday service, we took this chance to express our heartfelt thanks to Carol Nairn who is retiring from her role as Church Secretary and Fiona Wilkinson who is standing down from the PCC due to health and other commitments. Carol’s years of faithful service and steadfast dedication have been a true blessing to our church family. To show our appreciation, we presented her with a special gift as a token of our gratitude. Through her time in this role, Carol has been a steady and reliable presence; someone who worked behind the scenes with a deep love for this church. Her faithful stewardship has helped Nicholforest Church flourish in countless ways. Fiona was presented with flowers as a thankyou for her work on the PCC and for all that she has done for our church. Also at the end of the service, our Church Warden Liz ... Elizabeth Beattie was presented with flowers as a gesture of our appreciation for her dedication to the church. In the face of personal health challenges, Liz has continued to serve our church with unwavering commitment, quiet strength, and steadfast faith. Her presence, even in difficult times, has been an inspiration and a testament to the spirit of true service. These flowers were given in recognition of all she has given—and continues to give—to our church family.
Holy Week: Walking the Way of the Cross Lent culminates in Holy Week, where we journey with Jesus through His final days, from the joy of Palm Sunday to the sorrow of Good Friday and the silence of Holy Saturday. Palm Sunday: "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" (Matthew 21:9) – Jesus enters Jerusalem in triumph, yet the cross looms ahead. Reflect on the fleeting nature of human praise and the steadfastness of God's love. Maundy Thursday: "A new commandment I give you: Love one another." (John 13:34) – The Last Supper teaches us humility and self-giving love. Good Friday: "It is finished." (John 19:30) – Christ's sacrifice is the ultimate act of love. Pause in gratitude. Holy Saturday: A day of waiting and silence. Hope is not lost, for Easter is coming. Reflection Question: How has this Lenten journey shaped me? What lessons will I carry beyond Easter? Final Reflection: Stepping into the Resurrection Lent is not an end—it is a beginning. As we move into the joy of Easter, let us carry forward the renewal we have experienced. What new habits, prayers, or insights will you continue? Closing Prayer: Lord, through these 40 days, You have walked with me in the wilderness, called me to repentance, shown me mercy, and led me into light. As I step into the joy of Easter, help me to live with renewed faith, love, and trust in You. Amen. May this guide be a source of encouragement and depth in your Lenten journey. Blessings to you as you walk toward the hope of Easter!
