A snippet from Ben’s sermon
Date: Sunday 13th August 2017
Location: Watford & Lower Earley
Special Occasion: none
Speakers
I spoke in Watford. Ben Dannatt preached in Lower Earley. Both lessons are available via the Watford and Thames Valley YouTube channels and their respective podcasts.
In Watford, we sat in a circle – lots of people on their holidays. My lesson was on Luke 21.5-19 with discussion and interaction. The situation was a challenge. Lots of interruptions for seeing to the needs of babies, and latecomers. I wonder if we’d have been better off taking the chairs outdoors and sitting in the sun. The weather was good. Next time.
The discussion part of the lesson was helpful, but my questions were not quite on the mark. Next time I need to think through whether the questions are driving to the heart of the issue.
Ben spoke well in Lower Earley. His personal vulnerability was endearing, and his questions to our faith were probing.
I’d be interested in your feedback. Please leave a comment below.
Note to self: think through the questions more carefully
Music Worship
Watford: The depleted numbers gave their best, and Charl was rock-like. He showed a good connection with the congregation when acknowledging that one of the songs was not one we’d taught thoroughly. He led the song with stronger direction as a result which the church appreciated. The song was sung better than usual.
Lower Earley: the new projector is brighter. It lifted the mood of the whole church including those leading worship. Knowing all images and lyrics will be seen clearly was a boost.
We sang the “bread and wine” song seated, with no one up front leading it. A more meditative rendering of the hymn was the result. We’ll do that again.
Feedback was positive about the variety of songs, and the spiritually uplifting way they were led.
Note to self: vary the methods for songs to be led
Other Thoughts
Last week I said I would:
- Lower Earley: Double-confirm who is leading which song by Friday at the latest – done
- Watford: Add personal vulnerability to my sermon in Watford – not done
The focus for next Sunday:
- Bracknell: keep the song service simple. The PA experts are away.
- Watford: Add personal vulnerability to my sermon in Watford
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