Listen now

Here’s the link to our March 2022 magazine, paper copies of which you can now find in both of our churches:

In this edition you’ll find articles on Real Easter eggs, Mothering Sunday and the options for future buildings at Christ Church. There is also a reflection on the life of our friend, Kath Parkinson plus updates from our various groups.

In addition there is a letter from our Vicar, Dave Thompson…

Fasting

Throughout the Bible and Church History the discipline of fasting has often been practised during times of prayer and intercession by people of every denomination. 

One of the traditional occasions to fast has been during the season of Lent. 

As part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke to his disciples: “When you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret.” (Matthew 6 v 17-18)

From these words of our Lord, we can see that fasting is a normal part of discipleship – but it is not intended for everyone. He is not saying “You must fast!” For some people, particularly those who are sick, fasting from food is completely inappropriate. Yet for others Jesus is clear that fasting may well play an important role in the life of worship alongside prayer and giving. And that it is to be done for Him alone and not for the praise of those around us.

There is no one way to fast. Some people may feel able to go without food for a full day – others will skip one meal in order to spend time in prayer or worship. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are ideal days to begin this process of fasting if the practice is new to you.

It is important to remember that fasting is recommended for food alone – it is essential to drink regularly. It is not a hunger strike!

Pope Francis

But there are other kinds of fasts. Last year Pope Francis issued a statement to the Roman Catholic Church called “Do you want to fast this Lent?”                        

He then wrote:

Fast from hurting words and say kind words.

Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude.

Fast from anger and be filled with patience.

Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope.

Fast from worries and have trust in God.

Fast from complaints and contemplate simplicity.

Fast from pressures and be prayerful.

Fast from bitterness and fill your hearts with joy.

Fast from selfishness and be compassionate to others.

Fast from grudges and be reconciled.

Fast from words and be silent so you can listen.

May God bless you this Lent as you seek to come closer to Him, in worship, prayer or fasting. With best wishes, Dave

Finally, a grateful thanks to Christine, who for years has printed off the magazine for us. Every best wish for your future.