Hello Everyone
What a wonderful moment in history it has been to watch the Coronation of King Charles III today - rich in pageantry and in Christian Symbolism. So many Heads of State and guests in the Abbey, and crowds lining the streets, and many people across the world watching on screen, observing this richly Christian service of commitment and dedication which began with a child representative saying:
'YOUR Majesty, as children of the kingdom of God we welcome you in the name of the King of kings'.
and the King replied:
'In his name and after his example I come not to be served but to serve'.
The king is keen to serve - to follow Jesus, the King of Kings as his guiding example, to build a Kingdom of care and love.
So many stories shared, by the people he has interacted with over the years, told of his valued dedication and caring support to them or to organisations in trouble or need, as the Prince of Wales, preceding this special day.
Today's service exampled his desire to be inclusive, respectful, unifying and humble. The king demonstrates understanding and care for his people and his aim is to continue to serve, with the example of Jesus Christ in his heart, anointed by God - to serve and not to be served.
As part of the king's vision, we are called to serve too, by volunteering to help someone or to help an organisation in need, using our gifts and talents. The king, and the King of Kings, know the importance of giving of ourselves to help others.
Thank you to all who already give so much in so many ways. Your church, and your community value this so much.
As we gather this weekend to celebrate and have fun as community let us also reflect on the following prayer:
Blessed are you, Lord Jesus,
for as you were sent by the Father, so you send us.
Equip Charles our King and all your people
with the gifts to fulfil our calling,
that we may love as you loved,
serve as you served,
and willingly follow wherever you lead.
Blessed be God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Blessed be God for ever.
Our services and events this week
Sunday 7th May
9.30 am Holy Communion Service, Chalgrave Church
11.00 am Holy Communion Service, Toddington Church
Monday 8th May - Bank Holiday
no services
Tuesday 9th May
10.30 am Knitting Group
5.45 pm Youth Group, Wilkinson Hall
Thursday 11th May
2.00 pm Meeting with Friends, Wilkinson Hall, Toddington
4.00 pm Burial of Sheila Parkes' ashes, Chalgrave
Friday 12th May
10.30 am Painting for Pleasure group
6.30 pm Service of Thanksgiving for King Charles III, Toddington Church, with the Quintet Choir and Royal British Legion representatives. All Welcome
Saturday 13th May
Coronation Coffee Morning 10.00 am, Wilkinson Hall, Toddington
Sunday 14th May
9.30 am Holy Communion service, Chalgrave
11.00 am Holy Communion service, Toddington
Monday 15th May
Morning Prayer 9.30 am, Toddington Church
Have a wonderful bank holiday weekend.. and I hope the sun comes out to light your way.
God bless
Linda