Martin Tarr
Today is the 48th anniversary of the day this classic shot was taken, and still only three people, the crew of the Apollo 17 spacecraft that was en route to the Moon, have seen this sight themselves. This is because it’s a classic case of having to be in the right place at the right time under the right conditions, so there’s a narrow window of opportunity and not too many folk who have looked back at the earth from 18,000 miles away!
In Prayer for the Day this morning, Rev Sharon Grenham-Thompson reminded us that this unscheduled photograph “has been described as the perfect picture of our shared home, depicting the Earth’s ‘frailty, vulnerability, and isolation amid the vast expanse of space’”,
She reminds us that “there is no definitive answer as to who actually pressed the shutter. Tragically it was the cause of years of arguments between the crew members – perhaps symbolising our inability as humans simply to share. An inability that could be said to drive most of the difficulties we experience as inhabitants of our beautiful planet to this day.”
And she prayed: “Creator God may be reminded of the fragility and yet impossible beauty of all life; and may we not see our place on this earth as our right, but as our privilege.”
May that be the prayer of all of us.
Needing a wee break from the computer screen? At this link are some Advent and Christmas Radio and TV suggestions for you. Please mention these to family and friends who aren’t on the internet.
Those of you who, under normal circumstances, like to travel round the country to go to different churches, can do this virtually through the Scottish Episcopal Church YouTube channel.
A Eucharist service is broadcast at 11:00am every Sunday, and other services on the channel include Evening Prayer. As with all YouTube recordings you can watch at any convenient time afterwards.
The latest Diocesan E-News reports that many worshippers from our diocese have found the services deeply spiritual and uplifting.
To join the congregation live, head to the Holy Trinity YouTube channel. Each service will be uploaded to the Holy Trinity website immediately after the service, and will also be available on their Facebook page to watch back at a time to suit you.
In real time …
Now that the Holy Trinity congregation has restarted weekly eucharists in person on Thursday and Sunday mornings, you’ll only have the opportunity to follow the services taken by Kenny at 11:00am on Sundays.
The liturgy for each service will be the top post on the Holy Trinity website news page, and the service itself can be viewed on the Holy Trinity Facebook page.
At a time to suit you …
After the service ends the video will be added to the news page and YouTube channel for you to watch and take part in worship whenever you are able. [For catch-up on Facebook, click on the Videos section of the left-hand navigation to bring up videos of previous services]
For those without internet access …
As you are reading this, you’ll be able to join our virtual church. However, we’re aware that some folk don’t have the facility. To reach those who have been isolated from church since lockdown began, DVDs are now available of the on-line services on the Holy Trinity YouTube channel. If you know anyone who would like a DVD posted to them free of charge, please let Sandra Young know on their behalf, once you’ve checked that they are able to play DVDs.
