The service of holy communion for the fifth Sunday after Trinity was celebrated by the priest-in-charge, the Rev Andrew Stevenson.

In his sermon, Andrew said that the readings this Sunday picked up where we left off last week. The gospel reading in particular tells us much about the nature of our Heavenly Father’s view of forgiveness.

The parable of the weeds gives a unique insight into God’s patience. We all of us are given time, time to amend our ways, time to repent and start living as we should. This is particularly relevant when we set this in the context of the reading from Romans and the promises made during baptism.

All of us are loved and valued by our adoptive Father in Heaven, but we do need to listen to what He has to say, in the same way that children need to listen to their parents. But the reward for those who are heirs with Christ is life in all fullness and eternity. That is the gift of God in Jesus and it is open to all.

Before the communion was celebrated a service of baptism was held for Leo Syrett, the grandson of Helen and Mark Syrett. A full church, with many members of his family, including lots of beautiful children, enjoyed this happy occasion to welcome Leo into the church family.

After the baptism, the Old Testament reading from the Wisdom of Solomon, 12, 13, 16-19, was read by Tom Treloar, and the New Testament reading from Romans 8 v 12-25, was read by Jane Weller. The prayers of intercession were composed and read by Roger Parrott and the gospel reading from Matthew chapter 13 v 24-30, 36-43, was read by Mr Stevenson. Music was provided by Joan Treloar on organ and keyboard, and Luke Stevenson on trumpet. The singing was led by Mary Stevenson and Tom Treloar.

After the service everyone stayed in the church for refreshments to celebrate the baptism of Leo.