This morning, the ‘8 o’clockers’ were the first to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany, that is when the wise men visited the Christ Child. It was a special moment of prayer and reflection. The crib beneath the altar was rearranged to introduce the three Kings, or wise men, into the Bethlehem scene. We were reminded that the wise men who worshiped Jesus were not Jews but most likely Zoroastrians who studied astrology, and that we need always to keep our minds open with regard to people and situations and where God might be moving. Epiphany presents to us the calling of not merely a chosen few, but all people to Christianity.
The 8 o’clock Holy Communion service is often overlooked. It is held every fortnight on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. Normally between 8 and 12 people attend and it is an ideal service for those who like a short quiet service using the traditional prayer book or where you have a busy day and need an early start. Communicant members of all Christian churches and all baptized children are welcome to receive Holy Communion.
