Over the past few weeks the ECS Confirmation candidates have been working hard, learning more about the Church and Christian beliefs. I have been so impressed by their theological knowledge and understanding, as well as the lively discussions which have flowed forth. Most of our classes have been held in the various chapels of the Cathedral; it’s been a wonderful opportunity to delve into the key beliefs and teachings of our faith, surrounded by hundreds of years of Christian heritage, artwork and architecture. We’ve also been very lucky to benefit from the experience and wisdom of Canon Mustard, Precentor of the Cathedral, who has played an integral role to our studies and discussions.
As our final Confirmation Class approaches, our thoughts have turned to how we can involve prayer in our every day lives. Yesterday was the Feast of the Ascension when we remember the return of Jesus to Father God in heaven. The day also marked the beginning of the 2018 global prayer movement Thy Kingdom Come, led by the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, which aims to unite Christians in an ecumenical, global call to prayer. Churches, individuals and groups from across the world will take part in various prayer activities between the feast of the Ascension and the feast of Pentecost (20th May), 11 days in total.
As our Confirmation Service falls on Pentecost, it seems fitting to take part in Thy Kingdom Come. We have decided to do Five at 5, praying for five people at 5pm daily, in the hope that they become closer to Jesus. To help us do this, we’ve each tied 5 knots into a piece or ribbon, which we will wear/ keep on our person, to remind us to pray.
If you’d like to know more about Thy Kingdom Come then have a look at the website here: https://www.thykingdomcome.global/about
If you are minded so to do, please hold our Confirmation candidates in your prayers as they make their final preparations for their Confirmation in the Cathedral on the 20th May, thank you!
A Prayer for Five at 5 – Thy Kingdom Come.
Loving Father,
in the face of Jesus Christ
your light and glory have blazed forth.
Send your Holy Spirit that I may share with my friends [here, name your friends]
the life of your Son and your love for all.
Strengthen me as a witness to that love
as I pledge to pray for them,
for your name’s sake. Amen.
Mrs Fitzpatrick
Worship Coordinator.
