Skip to main content

Embracing New Rhythms: Cultivating Habits of Worship in the New Year at SPB

Embracing New Rhythms: Cultivating Habits of Worship in the New Year

Embracing New Rhythms: Cultivating Habits of Worship in the New Year

As the new year unfolds, it presents a time of reflection and anticipation. The community at St. Paul's & St. Barnabas is encouraged to create new habits and rhythms of worship, aligning their lives more closely with God's word. C.S. Lewis aptly reminds everyone, "Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done." This resonates deeply as the congregation embarks on a journey of faith anew in this new year.

To support this journey, here are several resources to foster a regular rhythm of scripture engagement and worship:

Crossway ESV Podcasts

Crossway ESV Podcasts offer an accessible way for anyone to engage with the Bible. Whether commuting, exercising, or relaxing, these podcasts provide a convenient means to listen to God's word.

The Bible Project Reading Plans

The Bible Project's Reading Plans are excellent for those who appreciate a visual approach. The plans are accompanied by insightful videos that make the scriptures more engaging.

Bible Gateway Reading Plans

Bible Gateway's Reading Plans offer a variety of thematic and structured approaches to Bible reading, catering to different preferences.

Ligonier Ministries Bible Reading Plans

Ligonier Ministries' Bible Reading Plans provide options ranging from a few weeks to an entire year, suitable for both new and seasoned readers of the Bible.

YouVersion Bible Reading Plans

YouVersion's Bible Reading Plans offer a digital approach, ideal for those who prefer to engage with the scriptures via an app.

Vanderbilt Divinity Library Revised Common Lectionary

Vanderbilt Divinity Library's Revised Common Lectionary provides a structured way to read through the Bible, following the liturgical calendar.

Alpha Bible

Alpha Bible is a great resource, especially for those new to the Bible or looking to revisit the fundamentals of Christian faith.

It can be a challenge to find time and sapce for Bible reading amidst life's busyness. Yet, immersing in the scriptures is beneficial for spiritual and mental well-being, reminding of God's love through Christ and the meaning of living for Him. The church emphasizes that making time for what is valued is crucial, especially for discipleship, worship, and church life. Prioritizing time for God's word is essential, and the church is committed to creating more space for these practices in the year ahead.

A healthy church thrives when both individuals and the community are deeply engaged with the Word of God. The Cranmer rhythms of the prayer book and the lectionary cycle play a vital role in guiding the collective journey in faith and worship.

In conclusion, as John Piper astutely observed, "If you don't feel strong desires for the manifestation of the glory of God, it is not because you have drunk deeply and are satisfied. It is because you have nibbled so long at the table of the world. Your soul is stuffed with small things, and there is no room for the great." The church encourages everyone to make ample room for the great – the essential reality of the scriptures in life with Jesus.

Let us in the joy of God and through the power of the Holy Spirit commit to reading the Bible individually, join the midweek Bible study, and seek to grow in God through prayer. Embracing these new rhythms of worship together will nourish souls and strengthen the community in Christ.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Looking Ahead for the Week beginning 10th March 2024

As we enter the reflective season of Lent, St. Paul's and St. Barnabas are buzzing with activities that cater to our congregation's spiritual growth and community spirit. Let's explore this week's schedule and the upcoming Holy Week preparations, inviting everyone to participate in these meaningful occasions. This Week's Fellowship and Worship Opportunities Monday with the Vestry Our week begins with the Vestry meeting on Monday, 9th March, at 7:30 PM. The Vestry members gather to deliberate on matters that shape our church's life and service We invite all those involved in these duties to be present and for everyone to pray for them! Wednesday's Lenten Devotions Midweek brings us together for Wednesday's Lenten evening of prayer and scripture. At 6:30 PM, we'll have our Lent Prayer session, a quiet space to reflect and seek peace amid our week. As we progress through the evening, we invite you to delve deeper into the Word with our Bible Study and I
Post a Comment
Read more

Warmth in the Midst of Winter: Join Us in the Winter Coat Proje

Warmth in the Midst of Winter: Join Us in the Winter Coat Project Warmth in the Midst of Winter: Join Us in the Winter Coat Project Imagine a cold winter's night in Belfast. Rain pours relentlessly, the wind howls, and the chill in the air cuts deep. It's a scene all too familiar for many in our community, where the unforgiving weather can be a daunting challenge. In these moments, a warm coat can be the difference between a difficult struggle and a glimmer of hope. It's a shield against the elements, a source of comfort, and a tangible expression of care from one human being to another. It's a reminder that, in our darkest hours, there are those who stand beside us, ready to offer warmth and support. The Winter Coat Project: Extending a Hand of Warmth In the spirit of compassion and community, we are delighted to announce the launch of the Winter Coat Project. This initiative holds great significance for us and aligns wit
Post a Comment
Read more

Service of Introduction and Licensing in St Paul and St Barnabas For New Ministry Lead Andrew!

  The Rev Andrew Irwin was introduced as Curate of the Parish of St Paul and St Barnabas, Belfast, on Wednesday June 8 by the Bishop of Connor, the Rt Rev George Davison. At the same service, Bishop George also Licensed the Rev Brian Lacey as Priest-in-Charge of the parish. Preacher at the service was the Ven Roderic West, rector of the Parish of Seapatrick, Banbridge, Diocese of Down and Dromore, where Andrew was curate prior to his appointment to St Paul and St Barnabas. A sizeable number of Andrew’s friends from Seapatrick Parish travelled to St Paul’s in York Street for the service. Andrew, 32, is a native of Portadown, Co Armagh, and grew up in the Parish of Knocknamuckley. He studied Computer Science at Queen’s University Belfast, graduating in 2012. He worked in software development and digital communications before starting to train for the ministry in 2015 at the Church of Ireland Theological College in Dublin. Andrew was deacon intern in Waringstown and Donacloney, Diocese of
Post a Comment
Read more