You may be aware that the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Advisor, along with NI Executive Junior Ministers met with the Faith Leaders’ Forum in the light of the escalation of Corona Virus this week.
Read below the comforting words and helpful guidance that the Rev Dr Heather Morris gives on behalf of the heads of The MCI:
“In light of the unequivocal medical and public health advice received at that meeting we believe that it is right that all Sunday gatherings for worship and all in person church activities in Methodist Churches in Northern Ireland should cease at the present time. At this stage you should plan that this will be our position until 6th February, although this will be reviewed towards the end of January.”
Heather goes on to say:
“Young people have borne a particularly heavy load through these last months, and even through this last week. We are so grateful to you and the many youth and children’s workers and leaders who are remaining connected through online activities. Why not join with IMYC staff next week, each day online at 11am to pray for children, young people and young adults? You will find a link to sign up in IMYC’s most recent email and on their social media. (Link HERE).
This week the 6th January, marked Epiphany when the Church remembers the Journey of the Magi. This prayer was written for Epiphany. I hope that these words bless you as they blessed me.
“Lord, the sight of the guiding star,
brought hope, courage and joy
To those who had journeyed to find you.
When our journey seems long,
When hope seems far away,
When our courage is failing
Fill us with faith and trust;
Shine your light on our fears,
Lift our hearts with your joy.”
The invitation before us is exactly the same as the invitation which God has graciously given throughout the generations; to faithfully, and in the power of the Spirit, bear witness to Jesus in our context. Our context has its particular challenges, and opportunities, but God’s invitation and God’s enabling remain the same.”
Heather also wants to make our congregations with online ZOOM access aware that there will be a Connexional Prayer meeting on Thursday 28th January at 8pm. Further details will be circulated through the usual social media channels. “We are grateful to Ruth Alderdice and Helen Sweeney who facilitate these prayer meetings. The last two have been a blessing. All are welcome to attend” …and many in their 100’s have done so, from both North and South of the island.
This action has been taken, ahead of NI Executive regulations, along with the Church of Ireland, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, the Roman Catholic Church.
Weddings and funerals may still go ahead in church buildings, the number who may attend remains capped at 25 and includes those involved in the service and children under 12.
President, Rev Dr Tom McKnight official Statement on the MCI website HERE
LINK to sign up for 11am Zoom Prayer Meetings next week.
Separate, yet as one body of Christ.
Mossley Methodist Church 