In this year of pandemic, our friend Liz Crumlish, soon to be ordained deacon at St Oswald’s Church, Maybole (see this link) offers some reflections to accompany us through Advent.

These are based on the Daily Readings from the Revised Common Lectionary, and there’s an illustrated thought for every day from 29 November. You can download these in the form of a booklet at this link.

Liz starts: “As we seek to proclaim the simplicity of God’s gift to the world in a time when many are grieving or fearful, when many are separated from loved ones, when the darkness seems all pervasive, we are called to be the light, to kindle the flame, igniting the divine spark in each until the light of Christ shines brightly.”

The light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not overcome it. (John 1:5)

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.

In real time …

Each week you’ll be able to follow the services taken by Kenny in isolation at Holy Trinity at 11:00am on Sundays and 10:15am on Thursdays.

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. Log in just before the service, and you’ll be able to hear an introductory organ voluntary, and exchange greetings using the Facebook comment function. During the service, as well as the liturgy and Kenny’s sermon, you’ll hear others reading remotely, and be able to sing a couple of hymns – words on the screen; organ accompaniment – and offer an on-line sign of Peace. It may not feel the same as being at church in person, but your sharing helps build community.

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.