Date: Sunday 9th July
Locations: Watford and Lower Earley
Special Occasion: none
The services in Lower Earley and Watford were fairly standard – at least in structure. Nothing is entirely predictable when we gather, mind you!
Speakers
I spoke in Watford and Ben Dannatt in Lower Earley. The notable aspect of the lessons was the engagement of the teens and preteens. In my case it was accidental. I used 13 mugs to illustrate the receptacles at the Temple treasury (in connection with Luke 21.1-4). A visiting teenager remarked on these to my wife afterwards. The visual props helped her attention. Ben spoke directly to the preteens – having them stand on their chairs and cheer! They looked delighted to be acknowledged. More on that in my Tuesday Teaching Tips video and podcast.
Video of Ben’s lesson is here. Audio available at the Thames Valley churches of Christ iTunes podcast.
Note to self: consider ways to engage the younger people
Music Worship
The singing in both services went well. The song leaders in Lower Early knew which song they were leading well in advance which helped their confidence. The debrief afterwards was remarkable for its lack of a significant improvement point!
Feedback from the congregation indicated that the drumming in Watford was too loud – we’ll adjust that for next time. It’s really helpful to receive a perspective from the church.
Note to self: allocate leaders of the songs in advance
Other Thoughts
Last week I said:
- Agree in advance who is leading which song at Lower Earley – done
- Set myself the goal of a sub-25 minute sermon in Watford – not achieved
The focus for next Sunday:
- Agree in advance who is leading which song at Bracknell
- Have a longer devotional for all participating in the service at Bracknell this week
Please comment on what you’re doing locally with your services. What are you trying that’s working? What is God teaching you? Share reflections with us so we can grow and please God.
You can leave a comment below.
God bless,
Malcolm
