WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP (based on Philippians 3: 12-14):
God, go with us on our journey,
God, stay with us through these days of Lent.
Not that we have already reached the goal,
not that we have fully arrived,
but laying aside what lies behind,
and stretching forward to what lies ahead,
we press on toward the goal of God’s call in Christ Jesus;
but we know we will never run this race alone.

HYMN: Sing Your Praise to God Eternal
Sing your praise to God eternal, sing your praise to God the Son,
sing your praise to God the Spirit, living and forever One.
God has made us, God has blessed us, God has called us to be true.
God rules over all creation, daily making all things new.

Join the praise of every creature, sing with singing birds at dawn;
when the stars shine forth at nightfall, hear their heavenly antiphon.
Praise God for the light of summer, autumn glories, winter snows,
for the coming of the springtime and the life of all that grows.

Praise God on our days of gladness for the summons to rejoice;
praise God in our times of sadness for the calm, consoling voice.
God our Maker, strong and loving, Christ our Saviour, Leader, Lord,
living God, Creator Spirit, be your holy name adored!
© Emmanuel College, Toronto (VU)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN – Cynthia & Jamie Cross

SONG: How is Jesus Present?
How is Jesus present? How is Jesus present?
How is Jesus present today?
Tell me how he’s present. Tell me how he’s present.
Tell me how he’s present today.

He’s present in the children, present in the family,
present in the meal that you share.
He’s present when you’re laughing, present when you’re giving,
present when you listen and care.

But I cannot see him, but I cannot see him,
but I cannot see him today.
Are you just pretending? How can it be real?
I would like to see him today.

Every time you listen, every time you’re sorry,
every time you care for a friend,
that is when he’s present, though you do not see him,
“I am with you always”, he said.

Now I understand. Now I understand.
Let us celebrate today!
He’s present in the Word, present in the people,
present in the breaking of bread. © Cecily Sheehy (AA)

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: Isaiah 43:16-21 John McKean

John 12:1-8 ~ Jessie Robb and others

SUNG RESPONSE: Be Still My Heart, My Mind, My Busy World
Be still my heart, my mind, my busy world,
that I may hear God’s word.
Be still my heart, my mind, my busy world,
that I may hear God’s word. © John Murray (FFS)

SERMON: Waste not want not?

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: We Sing a Love That Sets All People Free (Tune: Woodlands)
We sing a love that sets all people free,
that blows like wind, that burns like scorching flame,
enfolds like earth, springs up like water clear:
come, living love, live in our hearts today.

We sing a love that seeks another’s good,
that longs to serve and not to count the cost,
a love that, yielding, finds itself made new:
come, caring love, live in our hearts today.

We sing a love, unflinching, unafraid
to be itself, despite another’s wrath,
a love that stands alone and undismayed:
come, strengthening love, live in our hearts today.

We sing a love, that, wandering, will not rest
until it finds its way, its home, its source,
through joy and sadness pressing on refreshed:
come, pilgrim love, live in our hearts today.

We sing a burning, fiery, Holy Ghost
that seeks out shades of ancient bitterness,
transfiguring these, as Christ in every heart:
come joyful love, live in our hearts today. © Stainer & Bell (CH 4)

OFFERING: God, we bring this offering to you, mindful of all the gifts you give. Touch our gifts with Mary’s generosity of spirit, that they may touch the sad, the lonely, and the needs
of our communities; in Jesus’ name. Amen.

WE GREET ONE ANOTHER

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: Be Thou My Vision
Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
naught be all else to me, save that thou art,
thou my best thought by day or by night,
waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.
Be thou my wisdom, my calm in all strife;
I ever with thee, and thou in my life;
thou loving parent: thy child may I be;
thou in me dwelling, and I one with thee.

Riches I heed not, nor earth’s empty praise,
thou mine inheritance, now and always:
thou and thou only, the first in my heart,
great God of Heaven, my treasure thou art.

Great God of Heaven, after victory won,
may I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
still be my vision, O ruler of all. C/A

THE BLESSING

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 17th Marie; Tue 19th Rosalie; Fri 22nd Audrey; Sat 23rd Eian.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM SCIRT:
Burnbrae Street will be closed from Monday 18 March to mid May for traffic going down to the river from St Martins Rd – open to one way traffic from river up to St Martins Rd. SCIRT recommends using Eastern Tce – EXCEPT THIS IS CLOSED NEXT SUNDAY 23 MARCH FOR CITY2SURF.
Plan your route to Beckenham Methodist with care and allow extra time!

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Morning tea will be served after the service.

READERS are still required for Good Friday. Please sign the list on the clipboard in the foyer if you are available. Thank You.

CUPPA & CHAT: Tuesdays & Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge at Beckenham Methodist. All welcome. Aubrey 930 2525.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 20th March: A Morning at Diamond Harbour. Gold Card Special. Catch No 28 bus which goes along Opawa Rd to Lyttelton at 9.20am (park in Hawford Rd). This bus links with the 9.50 ferry to Diamond Harbour. “Energetic” walk up to the Country Store, then undulating meander round to the church and a conducted tour of the Goddard Reserve. Coffee at The Country Store for “brunch”. June 332 8874.

COMBINED Session & Board of Managers’ meeting Wednesday 20th March 7.30pm.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS meets every Thursday from 10am – 12 noon in the Beckenham Methodist Lounge. $3 per session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

PARISH OFFICE hours: Wednesday & Thursday 9am – 12 noon and Friday 9-11am. Contact Anna on 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz.

The information presented to the parish on 3 March regarding the future of the church buildings is available on the website: www.stmartins.org.nz

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 22nd April 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. Enquiries and offers of help to Lyndsey 388 1264.

HUB NEWS: Please see the noticeboard in the foyer for this week’s information.

Fair Weather – Trestle Fair

Saturday 13th April (if wet Saturday 20th April)

We will be having a Fair Weather – Trestle Fair on the Church site on Saturday 13th April 2013, (if wet Saturday 20th April) so start cleaning out your cupboards.
We will let you know in good time where to deliver your goods or would you like them to be collected?
We are only having the following stalls/tables:-
White Elephant
Cakes
Preserves/Jam
Books
We do not want large electrical items, such as TVs, Computers,Stereos No household furniture please.

WELCOME AND NOTICES

GATHERING (together):
As we gather may the peace of Christ rest upon our busy lives
that we may be quieted into prayer.
May the love of God flow through this time of reflection and fellowship, seeking out our every need.
May the Spirit of God then stir our hearts
to be open to opportunities for service.

HYMN: God is Here (Tune: Blaenwern WOV 165ii)
God is here and we his people, meet to offer praise and prayer,
may we find in fuller measure what it is in Christ we share.
Here, as in the world around us, all our varied skills and arts
wait the coming of the Spirit into open minds and hearts.

Here are symbols to remind us of our lifelong need of grace;
here are table, font, and pulpit, here the cross has central place.
Here in honesty of preaching, here in silence, as in speech,
Here, in newness and renewal, God the Spirit comes to each.

Here our children find a welcome in the Shepherd’s flock and fold;
here, as bread and wine are taken, Christ sustains us, as of old.
Here the servants of the Servant seek in worship to explore
what it means in daily living, to believe and to adore.

God of all, of church and kingdom, in an age of change and doubt
keep us faithful to the gospel, help us work your purpose out.
Here, in this day’s dedication, all we have to give, receive.
We, who cannot live without you, we adore you! We believe!
© Hope Publishing (VU)

OPENING PRAYERS
Lord of earth and sky….we are tempted to do nothing in response to need.
When we are too busy to spend time in prayer, to listen
for your Word in our lives, forgive us, God.
When we are too busy to notice the needs of others and to seek ways
to be present with them, forgive us, God.
When we are too preoccupied with what we want, rather than helping one another, taking time to talk and to laugh with one another; or simply even noticing one another, forgive us, God.
When life becomes overwhelming, and we do not even take time for our own needs: help us to listen to your voice within our hearts, calling us back to centre our lives with you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN Alice Shanks
SONG: Christians are All Kinds of People
Christians are all kinds of people,
they’re average, they’re short, and they’re tall,
from all kinds of backgrounds, with all kinds of outlooks,
our gracious God uses them all.
Christians are all kinds of people,
not even especially good,
but God’s love is mighty, and that is what counts,
with mercy as wide as the sea;
it reaches to you and to me.

Christians are all kinds of people,
they’re smilers, they’re grouchers, they’re clowns.
In all kinds of weather, wherever they gather,
you’ll find every kind of them round.
Christians are all kinds of people,
and sometimes all kinds are in me;

God uses all kinds of people,
the black, and the pale and the tan,
new Born and the aged, the fit and disabled,
they all have a part in the plan.
God uses all kinds of people,
with problems, with hang-ups, with scars, (Stan and Pauline Stewart)

READINGS: Psalm 15 (from Psalms for Praying: Nan Merrill)
David Hodder

Dramatic presentation from Luke 10: 38-42 Fern Wakefield,
Audrey Dunnachie, Wayne Barton, Carol Sheldon

SERMON: Martha or Mary?

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: Take My Gifts and Let Me Love You
Take my gifts and let me love you,
God who first of all loved me,
gave me light and food and shelter,
gave me life and set me free.
Now, because your love has touched me,
I have love to give away;
now the bread of love is rising,
loaves of love to multiply!

Take the fruit that I have gathered
from the tree your Spirit sowed,
harvest of your own compassion,
juice that makes the wine of God;
spiced with humour, laced with laughter-
flavour of the Jesus life,
tang of risk and new adventure,
taste and zest beyond belief.

Take whatever I can offer-
gifts that I have yet to find,
skills that I am slow to sharpen,
talents of the hand and mind,
things made beautiful for others
in the place where I must be:
take my gifts and let me love you,
God who first of all loved me. © Shirley Murray (AA)

THE OFFERING
Life-giving God, you are the source of change and renewal.
Through these gifts, may new possibilities open up for us
and for the communities around us.
Through our listening and prayer, our words and actions,
may others be encouraged and hope brought alive.
Bless these gifts, and us, as your love goes to work, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

WE GREET ONE ANOTHER

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER

HYMN: Filled With the Spirit’s Power (WOV 328)
Filled with the Spirit’s power, with one accord
the infant church confessed its risen Lord.
O Holy Spirit, in the church today
no less your power of fellowship display.

Now with the mind of Christ set us on fire,
that unity may be our great desire.
Give joy and peace, give faith to hear your call,
and readiness in each to work for all.

Widen our love, good Spirit, to embrace
with your compassion all the human race.
Like wind and fire with life among us move,
till we are known as Christ’s, and Christian prove. © Hope Publishing

THE BLESSING

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Morning tea will be served after the service.

READERS are required for the Holy Week Reflections and Good Friday. Please sign the list on the clipboard in the foyer if you are available. Thank You.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session TOMORROW 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. More volunteers desperately required please! Enquiries and offers of help to Lyndsey 388 1264.

CUPPA & CHAT: Tuesdays & Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge at Beckenham Methodist. All welcome. Aubrey 930 2525.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 13th March A Morning at Diamond Harbour. Gold Card Special. Catch No 28 bus which goes along Opawa Rd to Lyttelton at 9.20am (park in Hawford Rd). This bus links with the 9.50 ferry to Diamond Harbour. “Energetic” walk up to the Country Store, then round the road to the Church and back. Coffee/light lunch at the Store; probably return on 12pm ferry. June 332 8874.

THE CHRISTCHURCH APW will meet on Wednesday 13th March at St James’ Presbyterian Church, Barrington St at 9.45am. The speaker for the morning will be Frances from Lifeline. You are all welcome and there will be a Sales Table. Allison 332 0554.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS meets every Thursday from 10am – 12 noon in the Beckenham Methodist Lounge. $3 per session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

PLANTS for Cashmere Fair will be collected from Beckenham Methodist on Friday at 3.30pm. Volunteers required please to transport plants up the hill. Spare supermarket bags also needed! Please phone Lyndsey 388 1264 if you require plants to be picked up.

CASHMERE HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH FAIR Saturday 16th March 9am until 12 noon. All are welcome.

PARISH OFFICE hours: Wednesday & Thursday 9am – 12 noon and Friday 9-11am. Contact Anna on 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz

HUB NEWS: Please see the noticeboard in the foyer for this week’s information.

Fair Weather – Trestle Fair

Saturday 13th April (if wet Saturday 20th April)

We will be having a Fair Weather – Trestle Fair on the Church site on Saturday 13th April 2013, (if wet Saturday 20th April) so start cleaning out your cupboards.
We will let you know in good time where to deliver your goods or would you like them to be collected?
We are only having the following stalls/tables:-
White Elephant
Cakes
Preserves/Jam
Books
We do not want large electrical items, such as TVs, Computers,Stereos No household furniture please.

We look forward to everyone helping to make this event a success.

WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP:
This is the mystery of God’s accepting grace –
that we bring to worship what little we have:
five small loaves and two fish, or a widow’s mite,
a glimpse of faith or an awakening love,
a moment of truth or a brief sense of gratitude,
a slender hope or a thirsting spirit.
And God takes what we bring,
multiplies, enriches, and increases it,
so that it becomes his gift to us.

HYMN: In This Familiar Place
In this familiar place
I know the mystery of your grace.
For the love that I receive, for the truth that I believe,
I praise and thank you for this here and now.

In halting song and word
the music of your voice is heard.

Among these friends of mine
I taste the company divine.

Within this narrow sphere
I learn that you are everywhere. © Colin Gibson (AA)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

READINGS:
Paraphrase of Psalm 32 Ken Cree
Dramatic reading Luke 15: 11-32 ~ Irene Gray

SERMON: That’s just … the way … Grace … is

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy – remain seated
There’s a wideness in God’s mercy like the wideness of the sea;
there’s a kindness in God’s justice which is more than liberty.
There’s no place where human sorrows are more deeply felt than heav’n.
There’s no place where human failings have such kindly judgements giv’n.

For the love of God is broader than the measure of our mind
and the heart of the eternal is most wonderfully kind.
But we make that love too narrow by the limits of our own;
and we magnify God’s strictness with a zeal love will not own.

There is grace enough for thousands of new worlds as great as this;
there is room for fresh creations in that endless world of bliss.
If our love were but more simple we would trust the living Word;
and our lives would fill with gladness in the joy of Christ our Lord.
(Frederick Faber , alt) C/A

A LENTEN AFFIRMATION
In the turning of shadow into light,
of chaos into cosmos in that first creation,
and every new day’s creation,
we travel within God’s promise.
In the voice of prophets, calling us to turn about,
from God’s hurt towards God’s healing,
and move from wilderness into pasture,
we travel within God’s promise.
In the long forgiveness of God, ever remoulding us,
calling us anew to be renewed,
from a lost people to a saved generation,
we travel within God’s promise.
In the travelling through on the pilgrims’ way,
letting go and letting God,
in the cleansing of Lent,
we travel within God’s promise.
In the deep longing for rebirth, journeying towards dawn’s light,
from wilderness to tombstones,
from crosses to resurrection,
we travel, always, within God’s promise.

THE OFFERING
O God, the generosity of your grace astounds us.
We can simply stand in awe, but you call us to respond;
and these gifts are a token of our response.
We give, so your love may be shared, shared with our communities,
our city and our world.
Bless these gifts and us, that it may be so, in Jesus’ name…

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

INVITATION TO COMMUNION AND THE PEACE

COMMUNION HYMN: Every Day
Every day I will offer you,
Loving God my heart and mind
Every way I discover you,
In the work your hand has signed;
Help me see I’m your image, and
You have dreamed what I might be –
Every day – in your Spirit,
I’ll find the love and energy!

Every day I will look to Christ
And give thanks for wine and bread.
Through the pain and the emptiness
Where your world cries to be fed;
Help me see I can work for change,
And wherever I might be.
Every day in your Spirit,
I’ll find the love and energy!

Every day I will take your word,
Answer your compassion’s claim,
Celebrate every sign of hope,
Every deed done in your name;
Help me see you are always there,
And your light can shine through me,
Every day in your Spirit,
I’ll find the love and energy! © Shirley Murray (AA)

A COMMUNION PRAYER:
The night on which Jesus gave himself up for us,
he reminded his followers of God’s saving grace:
Just as God walked through the Red Sea with the Israelite people, as a widow offered her last bit of food to a stranger,
as God offered forgiveness to David;
Jesus reminded followers of how God worked through a carpenter’s son:
healing the sick, assisting the needy, overturning the status quo, offering life everlasting.
Jesus also reminded them of God’s work yet to be done
in the healing, challenging, guiding, forming movement
of the Holy Spirit…

COMMUNION

PRAYER FOLLOWING COMMUNION

SUNG BLESSING: May the Grace of Christ (Tune: Omni Die, WOV 5)
May the grace of Christ our Saviour,
and our Maker’s boundless love,
with the Holy Spirit’s favour,
rest upon us from above.

Thus may we abide in union
held together by the Word,
and possess, in rich communion
joys which earth cannot afford. John Newton C/A

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Wed 6th Errol; Fri 8th Anne; Sat 9th Sharyn.

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Morning tea will be served after the service. After morning tea, there will be a congregational discussion about the way ahead with our church buildings.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 6th March Meet 9.30am on the corner of Riverlaw Tce & Armstrong Ave, Coffee to follow at ‘Willow’ (ex ‘Flo’), Fifield Tce. June 332 8874.

READERS are required for the Holy Week Reflections and Good Friday. Please sign the list on the clipboard in the foyer if you are available. Thank You.

CUPPA & CHAT: Tuesdays & Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge at Beckenham Methodist. All welcome. Aubrey 930 2525.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS meets every Thursday from 10am – 12 noon in the Beckenham Methodist Lounge. $3 per session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 11th March 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. More volunteers desperately required please! Enquiries and offers of help to Lyndsey 388 1264.

GARDENERS UNITE and divide your perennials. We will be having a garden stall at Cashmere Presbyterian Church’s Fair on 16th March. More details later regarding transport of plants to Cashmere. If you would like to help on the day, with setting up, pricing, selling – even for a short time – please let Anna know 332 6192. Mission Resource Committee.

Children’s Bible Ministries Teacher Development Course Friday 8th March 7.30-9.30pm & Saturday 9th March 9.15am-3.30pm at Lincoln Baptist Church, 530 Birchs Rd. Free. For more information, or to register please email rgsmithies@xtra.co.nz

PARISH OFFICE hours: Wednesday & Thursday 9am – 12 noon and Friday 9-11am. Contact Anna on 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz

HUB NEWS: Please see the noticeboard in the foyer for this week’s information.

Fair Weather – Trestle Fair

Saturday 13th April (if wet Saturday 20th April)

We will be having a Fair Weather – Trestle Fair on the Church site on Saturday 13th April 2013, (if wet Saturday 20th April) so start cleaning out your cupboards.
We will let you know in good time where to deliver your goods or would you like them to be collected?
We are only having the following stalls/tables:-
White Elephant
Cakes
Preserves/Jam
Books
We do not want large electrical items, such as TVs, Computers,Stereos No household furniture please.

We look forward to everyone helping to make this event a success.

WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP: (adapted from David Sparks)
Lead us, O God, as we journey this Lenten season.
Give us the courage of Jesus, who did not hang back
from confronting wrong.
Lead us, O God, as we journey this Lenten season.
Give us the dedication and commitment of Jesus,
Who was not diverted from preaching the Gospel.
Lead us, O God, as we journey this Lenten season.
Give us the compassion of Jesus, who saw
the suffering ones and was moved to help them.
Lead us, O God, as we journey this Lenten season.
Give us the faithfulness of Jesus, who knew
what was in front of him but did not turn back.

HYMN: In This familiar Place
In this familiar place
I know the mystery of your grace.
For the love that I receive, for the truth that I believe,
I praise and thank you for this here and now.

In halting song and word
the music of your voice is heard.

Among these friends of mine
I taste the company divine.

Within this narrow sphere
I learn that you are everywhere. © Colin Gibson (AA)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN Alice Shanks

SONG: Wide, Wide as the Ocean
Wide, wide as the ocean
High as the heavens above,
Deep, deep as the deepest sea
Is my Saviour’s love.
I, in my youthfulness,
Now am a child of his care.
For his word teaches me
That his love reaches me,
Everywhere.

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: 1 Timothy 1:12-17 Martin Cleland

Dramatic Reading Luke 15: 1-10 ~ Audrey Dunnachie & Bill Lloyd

HYMN: The King of Love My Shepherd Is
The King of Love my Shepherd is,
whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am his
and he is mine for ever.

Where streams of living water flow
my ransomed soul he leadeth,
and where the verdant pastures grow
with food celestial feedeth.

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed;
but yet in love he sought me,
and on his shoulder gently laid,
and home rejoicing brought me.

In death’s dark vale I fear no ill,
with thee, dear Lord, beside me;
thy rod and staff my comfort still,
thy cross before to guide me.

Thou spread’st a table in my sight;
thy unction grace bestoweth;
and O what transport of delight
from thy pure chalice floweth!

And so through all the length of days
thy goodness faileth never;
Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise
within thy house for ever! C/A

SERMON: God in blue sneakers?

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: O God, You Search Me and You Know Me
O God, you search me and you know me.
All my thoughts lie open to your gaze.
When I walk or lie down you are before me:
ever the maker and keeper of my days.

You know my resting and my rising.
You discern my purpose from afar,
and with love everlasting you besiege me:
in every moment of life, or death, you are.

Before a word is on my tongue , Lord,
you have known its meaning through and through.
You are with me beyond my understanding:
God of my present, my past and future too.

Although your Spirit is upon me,
still I search for shelter from your light.
There is nowhere on earth I can escape you:
even the darkness is radiant in your sight.

For you created me and shaped me,
gave me life within my mother’s womb.
For the wonder of who I am, I praise you:
safe in your hands, all creation is made new. © Bernadette Farrell (CH4)

OFFERING
God, you call us to live lives of grace and generosity.
Open our hands and our hearts so that our gifts for your church become blessings to we who give, and to all who will receive, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

WE GREET ONE ANOTHER

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: Great Creator God You Call Us (Tune: Regent Square)
Great Creator God, you call us
through the church to do your will.
Stewards of both past and promise,
may we each our work fulfil,
building up in faith and nurture
Christ’s own mission, lively still.

Out of all our varied stories
may we weave a single tale,
here confessing sin and discord,
times we stumble, times we fail.
Yet forgiven, cleansed, refashioned,
in Christ’s strength shall we prevail.

Christ still calls to peace and justice,
health and wholeness, love and grace.
We are partners in that mission
for this time and in this place.
O God, grant us sense and courage
in the daily tasks we face.

Without vision, people perish,
without challenge, drift and die.
Give us then the tools of daring
and the clarity of eye
for creating in the present
visions far and wide and high. © JP Huber (ASF)

THE BLESSING

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Mon 25th Bill; Wed 27th Elizabeth; Sat 2nd Marilyn.

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Morning tea will be served after the service.

NEXT SUNDAY 3rd MARCH: After morning tea, there will be a congregational discussion about the way ahead with our church buildings.

THE LENTEN STUDY series begins tomorrow, 25th February.

FIRESIDE Tuesday 26th February 7.30pm . Lyn has invited us to meet at her home for a ‘catch-up’ after the holidays. Enquiries to Lyn 332 0865 or Margaret 366 8936.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 27th February. Meet 9.30am at South Library (river end of carpark). Coffee at ‘Red’ 10.30am. Others are welcome to join us then. Margaret 366 8936.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER Friday 1st March 10am
St Anne’s Anglican Church, cnr Centaurus & Wilsons Roads.
St Martin’s are hosting the service for the Opawa/St Martins area and we invite you all to attend this ecumenical service written this year by the women of France. We would appreciate it if you could please bring a plate for morning tea – something with a French theme if you are feeling adventurous!
We look forward to seeing you at the service. Invite your friends and neighbours to join you. This service is for everyone, not just women.
HELP! Does anyone have a French flag we can borrow? Please contact Margaret 366 8936 or Allison 332 0554 if you can help.

CUPPA & CHAT: Tuesdays & Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge at Beckenham Methodist. All welcome. Aubrey 930 2525.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS meets every Thursday from 10am – 12 noon in the Beckenham Methodist Lounge. $3 per session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 11th March 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. More volunteers desperately required please! Enquiries and offers of help to Lyndsey 388 1264.

GARDENERS UNITE and divide your perennials. We will be having a garden stall at Cashmere Presbyterian Church’s Fair on 16th March. More details later regarding transport of plants to Cashmere. If you would like to help on the day, with setting up, pricing, selling – even for a short time – please let Anna know 332 6192. Mission Resource Committee.

PARISH OFFICE hours: Wednesday & Thursday 9am – 12 noon and Friday 9-11am. Contact Anna on 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz

HUB NEWS: Please see the noticeboard in the foyer for this week’s information.

Fair Weather – Trestle Fair

Saturday 13th April (if wet Saturday 20th April)

We will be having a Fair Weather – Trestle Fair on the Church site on Saturday 13th April 2013, (if wet Saturday 20th April) so start cleaning out your cupboards.
We will let you know in good time where to deliver your goods or would you like them to be collected?
We are only having the following stalls/tables:-
White Elephant
Cakes
Preserves/Jam
Books
We do not want large electrical items, such as TVs, Computers,Stereos No household furniture please.

We look forward to everyone helping to make this event a success.

WELCOME AND NOTICES

CALL TO WORSHIP:
Now is the time of returning,
returning to God, our first love.
Now is the time of turning away,
turning away from all that separates us from God.
Now is the time of lifting,
for lifting the burdens we carry.
Now is the time of renewing,
renewing heart, mind, and spirit.
Now is the time:
Lent’s demanding, yet fulfilling pilgrimage begins.

HYMN: O God, Whom We Praise (Tune: Hanover WOV 67)
O God, whom we praise from morning till night,
your grace fills our days as lustrous as light.
In joy or in sorrow we call on your name,
today and tomorrow, as always the same.

We know without you our living is vain.
You give us a view of life that’s humane,
of growing and learning that never should cease,
of working and yearning for justice and peace.

Our knowledge is frail. Your wisdom is pure.
Our scheming may fail. Your actions are sure.
Our striving can never our full hopes attain,
your truth lasts forever, eternal your reign.

Now fit us for life in this time and place.
Calm all fear and strife and grant us the grace
to stand with our Saviour, proclaiming to all,
by faith and behaviour, response to your call. (© unknown)

OPENING PRAYERS & THE LORD’S PRAYER

TIME WITH THE CHILDREN Cynthia & Jamie Cross
SONG: The Church is Wherever People are Praising
The Church is wherever God’s people are praising,
knowing they’re wanted and loved by their Lord.
The Church is wherever Christ’s followers are trying
to live and to share out the good news of God.

the Church is wherever God’s people are loving,
where all are forgiven and start once again,
where all are accepted, whatever their background,
whatever their past and whatever their pain.

The Church is wherever God’s people are seeking
to reach out and touch folk wherever they are –
conveying the Gospel, its joy and its comfort,
to challenge, refresh, and excite and inspire.

The Church is wherever God’s people are praising,
knowing we’re wanted and loved by our Lord.
The Church is where we as Christ’s followers are trying
to live and to share out the good news of God. © W. Jenkins (CH4)

INTRODUCTION TO THE READINGS

READINGS: Paraphrase of Psalm 91 (Leslie Brandt) Warren Pettigrew

Dramatic Reading: Luke 4: 1-13 (John Shanks & Carol Sheldon)

SERMON: The Uncertainty of Faith

A TIME OF QUIET

HYMN: Jesus Tempted in the Desert (Tune: Blaenwern WOV 165 ii)
Jesus tempted in the desert,
lonely, hungry, tired and worn:
“Use your power,” the tempter tells him;
“turn these barren rocks to bread.”
“Not alone by bread,” he answers,
“can the human heart be filled.
Only by the Word that calls us
Is our deepest hunger stilled.”

Jesus tempted at the temple,
high above its ancient wall:
“throw yourself from lofty turret;
angels wait to break your fall!”
Jesus shuns such empty marvels,
feats that fickle crowds request:
“God whose grace protects, preserves us,
we must never vainly test.”

Jesus, tempted on the mountain
by the lure of vast domain:
fall before me! Be my servant!
Glory, fame, you’re sure to gain!”
Jesus sees the dazzling vision,
turns his eyes another way:
“God alone deserves our homage!
God alone will I obey! © GIA Publications, Inc (VU)

OFFERING
Not by magic, but through the generosity of your people,
do stones become bread, O God.
Not by gathering power to ourselves, but through serving others,
do we find the purpose of our lives.
Not by upfront guarantees, but through trusting and risking,
do we live faithfully.
As we thank you, God, for wilderness reminders,
we bring these gifts for the building of a church community
that will share burdens and gladden hearts.
May it be so, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

WE GREET ONE ANOTHER

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

HYMN: That Christ May Be Known (June Service)
Let all who would serve Him, renew and revive
Their faith in Christ Jesus, so it can be shown
To all the world’s people – His love is alive,
And this is our challenge, for Christ should be known.

Tell it out, tell it out,
With His love in our voice,
Spread His word, spread His word,
Let us all now rejoice,
We’ll tell of the good news in country and town,
Proclaiming this message, until Christ is known.

Begin with us now, Lord, to plan and prepare
Our lives for Your service, both here and at home;
We pray that Your Spirit will help us to share
Our worship together, that Christ may be known.

O let me respond, Lord, to Your stirring call,
Discover the talents which are mine alone,
Please strengthen and help me bring Your word to all
In faith and involvement, for Christ must be known.

Let us share Your vision to change the whole world,
We’ll all spread the message and pray seeds are sown;
A great celebration, our love for You held,
Forgiveness and new life – AND CHRIST WILL BE KNOWN.

THE BLESSING

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK: Sun 17th Joan, Peter; Fri 22nd Lindsay, Ross; Sat 23rd Bessie.

NOTICES
A very warm welcome to all who worship with us today. Morning tea will be served after the service.

LENTEN STUDIES: Those people who expressed an interest in the studies will be contacted directly. Chris.

BOARD OF MANAGERS’ meeting Wednesday 20th February 7.30pm.

WEDNESDAY WALKERS 20th February. Meet 9.30am by the bridge to the kiosk in Armagh St carpark for a wander round the Botanic Gardens for Festival of Flowers. Coffee afterwards in the newly reopened Museum Cafe. June 332 8874.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER Friday 1st March 10am
St Anne’s Anglican Church, cnr Centaurus & Wilsons Roads.
St Martin’s are hosting the service for the Opawa/St Martins area and we invite you all to attend this ecumenical service written this year by the women of France. We would appreciate it if you could please bring a plate for morning tea – something with a French theme if you are feeling adventurous!
We look forward to seeing you at the service. Invite your friends and neighbours to join you. This service is for everyone, not just women.

CUPPA & CHAT: Tuesdays & Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon in the Lounge at Beckenham Methodist. All welcome. Aubrey 930 2525.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS meets every Thursday from 10am – 12 noon in the Beckenham Methodist Lounge. $3 per session. New faces are always welcome ?. Beverley 332 7786.

FOOTCARE CLINIC: Next Session Monday 11th March 1-4pm at Beckenham Methodist. More volunteers desperately required please! Enquiries and offers of help to Lyndsey 388 1264.

GARDENERS UNITE and divide your perennials. We will be having a garden stall at Cashmere Presbyterian Church’s Fair on 16th March. More details later regarding transport of plants to Cashmere. If you would like to help on the day, with setting up, pricing, selling – even for a short time – please let Anna know 332 6192. Mission Resource Committee.

PARISH OFFICE hours: Wednesday & Thursday 9am – 12 noon and Friday 9-11am. Contact Anna on 332 6192 or email stmartpresch@xtra.co.nz. WEBSITE: www.stmartins.org.nz

The 5th Christchurch Girls’ Brigade Company (part of Beckenham Methodist’s outreach) is looking for new members. Meetings are held every Wednesday during school terms at Merchiston, 75 St Martins Rd, where the girls enjoy fun activities to educate, inspire and develop physical, social and educational skills.
5-8 years: 3.15 – 4.45pm. 9 & over: 7.00 – 8.30pm.
Please contact Dianne Claughton 332 2889 for further information.

HUB NEWS: Please see the noticeboard in the foyer for this week’s information.

Fair Weather – Trestle Fair

Saturday 13th April (if wet Saturday 20th April)

We will be having a Fair Weather – Trestle Fair on the Church site on Saturday 13th April 2013, (if wet Saturday 20th April) so start cleaning out your cupboards.
We will let you know in good time where to deliver your goods or would you like them to be collected?
We are only having the following stalls/tables:-
White Elephant
Cakes
Preserves/Jam
Books
We do not want large electrical items, such as TVs, Computers,Stereos No household furniture please.

We look forward to everyone helping to make this event a success.