Coronavirus (Covid-19) Update from the President of the Methodist Church

Dear Friends,
It is with great sadness that we have suspended gatherings for worship in Methodist Churches across Ireland. We have made this difficult decision in light of the evolving government advice in both jurisdictions. Congregations are encouraged to seek creative ways to worship, even if not able to be in one place and to continue to serve those who are most vulnerable in their communities. We continue to pray for all affected by the spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19), particularly for those who are ill and grieving the loss of loved ones, our front-line health care workers, leaders in government and the Health Services and for businesses at this time. 

As a Church, we want to turn to God in this unique time. You will find on The Methodist Church in Ireland website we have created guidelines and resources which we hope will equip congregations across Ireland to remain connected and together as much as possible.  CLICK HERE
President Sam McGuffin

One such online resource, available now but intended for service on 22nd March, will be an online video service given by The President Sam McGuffin. This will continue for every Sunday allowing congregations to ‘gather’ for church in our homes.

Follow this direct link or watch below to hear a word of comfort and encouragement from President Sam McGuffin

Good morning reader.
With all the advice we are getting about Covid19, keeping a positive and healthy mind is right up there! We are being told that it’s good to add structure to your day, we all need a plan and keep a regular schedule especially if we are social distancing or self isolating.

As I’m sure you know some people are taking up new skills like learning the guitar that’s sat in the corner for years, trying their hand at baking, bird watching (if you have a nice garden), keep-fit or using online access through youtube keep-fit or yoga. Some people have even decided to re-order that messy junk room.

So here is another suggestion. How long have we been telling ourselves “I must set aside time for God” … here’s that opportunity. Even if you find yourself working from home or home schooling , then all the more important to find a quiet place for YOU.

There are so many study guides out there. Our Daily Bread and Scripture Unions Word Live are but a few free online suggestions to help you come along side God each day, to pray and read scriptures from the bible.

You Version is another resource you can download to your smart phone or computer in the form of an app. This resource provides plans that can choose to span over a few days or weeks. You get to choose the topic and duration that suits your life experience. You also get a reminder and scripture emailed everyday. It’s very fluid and easy to follow, most of all, and this is why I’m suggesting it, they have compiled topic plans that relate to our response to Covid19. Plus you will even find under the products tab a bible app for kids.

So what are you waiting for … because Gods waiting for you!

Follow this CLICK to see just a few of the topics that intend to bring hope through Gods word into our lives at this fearful time.
Click HERE if you wish to download the You Version Bible App

This afternoon the Methodist Church in Ireland, with Government guidance, have recommended the suspension of all Methodist church services. Furthermore all congregational organisations and activities should also cease.

It is with great sadness and our social responsibility that the leadership of Mossley Methodist agree to comply with these measures. Sam and the leadership team would be very grateful if you would pass on to anyone you know, that as of today all groups and services will cease until further notice.

Sam expresses that although he will not be able to visit, he can provide pastoral care over the phone. If you need to contact him then please do not hesitate to ring him on his landline 028 9591 3219. Also he will be providing weekly sermons that will be posted for streaming playback on our website www.mossleymethodist.com. Any updates additions or changes we will do our best to actively post here.

In addition Methodist UK has posted helpful information with links to worship tools within the Methodist online community and can be found HERE

Please don’t feel alone at this time, if you need help ask for it, if you are self isolating and need a friendly voice then please reach out to us. We are Gods family and it’s our duty to look out for each other in these uncertain days. All you need do is ask. God bless and keep us all, Amen

Hello reader, Helen Sweeney the Coordinator of Whiteabbey Storehouse, has contacted our church to regretfully rely the news that her team have taken the decision to suspend Whiteabbey Storehouse.

Unfortunately all church rotas are greatly compromised (due to Covid19) as most of their volunteers are over seventy years of age.

Helen wishes to convey a thank you for the generosity to everyone, both individuals and congregations, who have given so much encouragement and support over the years.

Helen, thank you for your unwavering commitment to the Storehouse project. Let us pray that God will find a way, particularly in these uncertain days, that this very much needed service will be up and running again sooner than anticipated. In our Saviours name AMEN

How much fun did we have Saturday night?! Check out the Gallery below to see how our evening at Corrs Corner hit an all time high! Colin and Christine … you threw us an awesome party!

Our North Eastern District of The Methodist Church in Ireland are running a World Mission event which will take place on Sunday 23rd February 2020 at 7.00pm Hosted by Glengormley Methodist Church.

An invitation is extended to all church members within the North Eastern District to attend.

May God’s love light your way and lead you into a new year that shines with His special joy. Happy New Year!

Images courtesy of BlueMountain.com and Pikisuperstar

This late night Christmas Eve Service has become a tradition in Mossley. Everyone who attends are in agreement, that, taking part in this time through reflection on the nativity and the singing of carols gives meaning and value to the season.

So make up your mind to join us in a few hours at 11pm and experience the deep sense of joy of having given thanks and then stepping outside and into the gift of Christmas morning.

The noise of Christmas can be overwhelming as we find ourselves running from pillar to post, ticking off the next item on our ‘to do’ list. Bottom line, it’s just incredibly hard to find a sense of peace on the run up to Christmas.

So tomorrow evening why not side-step and ‘gift’ yourself an hour in the glowing atmosphere of Carols by Candlelight. Here we will make our way together through the wonderment of the nativity story, the birth of Emmanuel, God with us.

Service begins at 6:30pm. Mince pies afterwards.

Blue Christmas is a quiet, contemplative service that is an alternative to the more traditional gatherings, where people can hear about the God of love who comes to us in the midst of the mess and pain we know in our own everyday lives and the lives of those around us.

…Blue Christmas provides a space for any of you who are NOT caught up in celebrating.