Virgin of Vladimir (+ image by the hand of Stephen Allison 2008)

Friday 17 July 2009

Before the Throne of God

Notes of our meeting on 13 July 2009

Picture of people in procession dressed all in white and carrying candles.
Feeling that these were Priests who had gone to their heavenly reward.

This led us to praying for Priests both living and dead and also for all who had gone before us (whether Priests or lay people or Saints of the Church). We also prayed for the souls in Purgatory.

We then praised God (Father Son and Holy Spirit), coming before his throne together with all the Angels and Saints in Heaven.

Wednesday 1 July 2009

Jesus is our peace in the storms of life

Notes from our meeting of 30 June 2009



Picture of a boat in rough seas battered by a storm with the people in boat worried and afraid pulling in different directions and getting nowhere.

If we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus there would be no need to be worried and he would calm the storm and bring peace.



Romans 16 v 17 -20

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites,and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.



Let us pray:



It's easy when I feel secure,

Like a boat around a harbour.

I can get so proud.

I think I can do things all by myself,

Without any need to rely on you.



But when I move out of harbour

Onto the high seas of life,

And the mood darkens, or storm gathers,

I find I'm not so sure of myself anymore.

I feel helpless in the waves,

Confused when confronted with danger,

Lost without a sense of direction.

And once again I humbly realise

I need you to guide my course,

To steer me to safety and peace.



Holy Spirit, steer me along life's course.



(from Lord, Send Me Your Spirit by Patrick Sayles)





Other readings:



Phillipians 2 v 12 -18

James 3 v 13-18

Luke 19 v 1 - 10