What does the Ascension mean?  How does it affect us and what is the call on us today?  Helen explores these questions as she looks to the Ascension of Jesus to reign in glory.

Today Peter Lloyd preaches on the basis for trust in tough times:  the testimony of Scripture and our personal experience of God's faithfulness.

Over the last few weeks, we have looked at passages from the New Testament which tell us of the glory of the risen Christ and how the early church developed in the light of the resurrection. Today we looked at Revelation 21:1-6 and Acts 11:1-8. Jesus offers the water of life to the thirsty. Are you thirsty for real life, for satisfying purposeful and eternal life? For that is what Jesus offers - to be enjoyed now and also in the afterlife. He offers it for free to those who will follow him.

As we continue through the Easter season, we see today Jesus as saving shepherd who can be trusted to keep us.  We see Peter walking in Jesus footsteps in raising the dead.  We see something of the worship of Jesus in heaven.

Here we are in the Easter season which runs for 50 days as we rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.  Today's readings present three encounters with the risen Christ told by eye-witnesses.  When the disciples met Jesus by the lake, he restored Peter from shame into acceptance and responsibility.  Here we find lessons for us as we find our way in greater wholeness or help others on that journey.

Notices:

• We have Messy Church next Sunday and also the last Sunday of May.
  
• The AGM is on 22nd May.  Nominations for Vestry and Synods Representatives close 5pm next Sunday.
  
• Tax receipts are produced by the Diocesan Accountants and usually come at the end of May.  We know they have had staff shortages because of COVID, so this may delay their production.  Note that you don't need the Tax receipts to submit your tax return, the claim is a separate process after the tax return is assessed.