Anthony's summer message to the parish

Dear Friends,

Before he left his friends Jesus told them that "peace" was his parting gift to them. He also promised them the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit would be their "comforter" when he had gone. At Church here in Hobkirk and Ruberslaw parish we will soon be celebrating the season of Pentecost or Whitsuntide at our service on Whitsunday 27th May at Hobkirk at 9.45am.

You can read the story of the first christian disciples in Acts 2. What images present themselves here: fire, water and air; newness of life. So elated were the followers of Jesus that the Jews thought they were drunk! This was an experience of being baptised by the Spirit. Baptism is very important in the life of the church. There is a unity which we all experience in baptism (being One in the same spirit) Traditionally the innocent and blameless child is welcomed into the family of the church at the earliest stage. And the origin of the rite emphasised the importance of the giving of a 'christian name'. At Baptism parents or guardians, and sometimes Godparents agree to guide and nurture their children 'in the way of the Christian faith'.

I am very happy and privileged to have celebrated this occasion for many families in this parish. We as a church continue to uphold the lives of those baptised in our prayers.

This time was immortalised by Thomas Traherne who said "Is it not strange, that an infant should be Heir of the whole world, and see those mysteries which the books of the learned never unfold? The corn was orient and immortal wheat, which never could be reaped, nor was ever sown..."

Every Blessing on our families & homes

Your Friend & Minister

Anthony
Rev Anthony M. Jones, BD (Hons), DPS, Dip Th, F.R.S.A.