Recently I had reason to ask Mum for the date of my baptism. The conversation went something along these lines:
"Can you remember the date of my baptism?"
"Oh er...sometime in August 1980...I think. You were born on 6 July 1980 in Manygates hospital and..."
"yes Mum I know that bit"
"I know I am just trying to work it out...So... You were born on..." etc etc

Imagine my surprise when the same vague parent arrived for Christmas, not only had she remembered the date but also passed into my possession a copy of the original order of service, in which I am mentioned by name twice.

I sat down and read the typewritten order of service cover to cover, and I am not ashamed to say I shed a tear or two of joy. Three of my favourite hymns, particularly Be Thou My Vision, which I chose 22 years later for our wedding.

At the end of the service sheet is typed:
"Please take this service sheet home with you. Please study the Baptismal service and remember that YOU are pledged to the same promises for the whole of your life. It applies to us all.....
Christ's soldiers and servants to the end of our life. Let us never forget our duties of PRIVATE PRAYER, PUBLIC WORSHIP, EXAMPLE, AND WITNESS. Let us ever seek to grow in our knowledge and love of God and the Faith and in support for His Church.

God always keeps his promises. We must keep ours.

Renew Your Church, O Lord, beginning with me!"

Amen.








For those even vaguely interested: 24 August 1980 Altofts Parish Church.

Expecting a King

I have spent some time reflecting on St. Mary, today. I am currently on a journey of discovery with God, I am currently both elated and terrified by all the possibilities ahead and so it is quite right that Mary springs to mind.

The Mary, porcelain skinned meek and mild doll of the images, for whom the image in my head is quite different.

I see a girl, barely a woman, of bravery none can measure and strength none can know. I see a girl of faith and trust. A girl that God has lifted from her lowliness, and who carried in her womb the very nature of God's redemption of the world.

Wow!