This Sunday we gathered to remember those who we have lost, come together in prayer, lift their names up to God, and tie a ribbon on the Remembrance tree.
The service was led by Revd Margaret of Christ Church and Revd Laura of St. George’s, and we were joined by Revd. Jane of Holy Trinity.
Each member of the congregation wrote the names of their loved ones who have died on a piece of paper which Revd Margaret and Revd Laura lifted in prayer. We also lit a candle for each of them and tied a ribbon to the tree as a reflective moment of prayer.
Revd Laura preached on Lamentations 3.21.-26 and Matthew 11.28-30 reminding us that through pain and grief, sadness and loss, God holds us. Especially after this time of difficulty and loss we have all experienced during the pandemic. At times when it feels like too much we can just rest in His arms.
Lamentations 3.21–26
But this I call to mind,
and therefore I have hope:
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul,
‘therefore I will hope in him.’
The Lord is good to those who wait for him,
to the soul that seeks him.
It is good that one should wait quietly
for the salvation of the Lord.
Matthew 11.28–30
Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’