Author Archives: Jean Rae

IT TAKES ALL SORTS TO MAKE A WORLD

This well-known phrase is a profound statement and is equally as applicable today as when it appeared in the book Don Quixote in 1615. To substitute the word “world” with “church” would be a challenging exercise of appraisal and assessment. … Continue reading

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THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE

A special service is being arranged at 9.30a.m. on the 17th June to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. It will reflect thanksgiving for her Majesty’s steadfastness in the role bestowed on her. In the Queen’s message released earlier this year … Continue reading

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HUMILITY – MEAKNESS OR WEAKNESS?

In his book David Copperfield, Charles Dickens wrote with scornful deprecation the personification of someone who lacked humility. The character Uriah Heap was “ever so humble” but this masked a false and ingratiating persona. During his ministry Jesus had much … Continue reading

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A CELEBRATION OF SHAKESPEARE

In 2004 through the inspiration and imagination of my brother Ian Flintoff (PhD) an organisation was formed entitled Shakespeare 2012. Ian was a language scholar at Oxford University before becoming a professional actor and director. His academic qualifications are mainly in … Continue reading

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TOO BUSY?

Many people who go on retreats evidence the opportunity to escape from the daily rigours of routine – “the trivial round the common task” in order to experience peace and tranquillity as an oasis in the desert of a busy … Continue reading

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TO BE A PILGRIM

Having lived in different parts of this country, I have been blessed to evidence a variety of eclectic experiences within church worship. The essence of different situations can remain etched in the mind and memory. A friend in Scotland who … Continue reading

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ENLIGHTENMENT

The visit by the Reverend Mark Laynesmith as the guest speaker at the open meeting of the Study and Discussion Group on the 2nd February was a memorable occasion. His presentation on the text of John 8 v 12– “Jesus … Continue reading

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WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD

The hymn by Folliott Pierpoint, “For the beauty of the earth” which extols the beauty of God’s creation, is interspersed with the theme of love and the gifts of nature bestowed by God.  Down the centuries there has been evidence … Continue reading

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CANDLEMAS/GROUNDHOG DAY

The 2nd February is celebrated in different ways around the world. For the Christian it represents Jesus – the light of the world. The celebration of Candlemas originated in the late fifth century as a tribute to the light of … Continue reading

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HANDING ON THE TORCH

New discussion material for groups or individual study has been produced by York Courses. It comprises booklet, CD/audiotape and transcript and includes a wide range of questions reflecting the theme Sacred words for a Secular World. The course, which covers … Continue reading

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