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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 Intercessory Prayer meeting from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM.


Thursday's Community Connect

Join us on Thursday for a dual offering of community and spirituality with our Prayer & Gathering from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. It's a day for nourishing ourselves with prayer, conversation, and scripture.


Next Sunday

We are excited to have Mark Wells from the Bible Society join us for our Morning Worship from 10:30 - 11:30.  Don't forget you can join us for prayer from 9:45 - 10:15


Holy Week and Easter Preparations

Community Prayer Walk


Take a step on our Easter Community Prayer Walk scheduled for Tuesday, 26th March, starting at 2:00 PM. We'll gather at St. Paul's & St. Barnabas and finish at Alexandra Presbyterian with refreshments at 4:00 PM. This walk is not just a physical journey but a spiritual one, touching the lives within Tigers Bay & Mountcollyer with our presence and prayers.


Tuesday to Friday Midweek Prayer

As Holy Week approaches, we invite you to join our  Midday Prayer services from Tuesday to Friday at 12:00 PM during Holy Week. These moments of prayer provide a pause in our day to reflect on the sacrifice and love of Jesus Christ.


Holy Week: A Journey To The Cross


Holy Week at St. Paul's & St. Barnabas is a time of deep spiritual significance, marking the final week of Lent as we prepare our hearts for Easter. This year, we are holding a series of special services to guide us through the events leading up to the resurrection of Jesus Christ.


Wednesday's Evening Worship: "The Cross in Sight"

Midweek, on Wednesday evening, we invite you to join us for a reflective service titled "The Cross in Sight." Beginning at 7:45 PM, this service will allow us to focus on the path Jesus walked, carrying the weight of the cross. It's a time to meditate on the sacrifice and profound love demonstrated on that journey towards Calvary.


Thursday's Holy Communion: "Preparation"

As we continue through Holy Week, **Thursday's service** is one of "Preparation." Here, we will share an intimate and pivotal time of remembrance and anticipation in Holy Communion. This service is not only a preparation of the elements of bread and wine but also a preparation of our hearts and minds for the coming days of solemn celebration.


Good Friday Service: "A Day Like No Other"

Our Holy Week services culmination is the Good Friday service, aptly named "A Day Like No Other." This significant evening service, starting at 7:45 PM, invites you to reflect on the passion and suffering of Christ. It's a profound time to gather in silent contemplation and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice made for humanity.


These services are cornerstones of our Holy Week observance, each a step toward Easter Sunday. They offer space for contemplation, prayer, and togetherness amid a busy world. We hope you will carve out time in your week to join us for these moments of communal worship and reflection.


FIRST THINGS: A Date for Your Diary



Mark your calendar for the upcoming FIRST THINGS event for evangelicals in the Church of Ireland. This critical assembly will be hosted at the Moira Parish Centre on Saturday, 27th April 2024, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Anticipate a day rich with insightful conversations and strengthening of fellowship. You can secure your spot at [www.firstthings.church](http://www.firstthings.church).


We warmly invite you to any or all of these events. Whether for a quiet prayer, a communal walk, or an engaging discussion, each gathering is an opportunity to deepen your faith and connect with the community. Join us as we continue our Lenten journey and prepare our hearts for the celebration of Easter.


If you have any questions please contact us via the website or by emailing office@spbbelfast.org

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