Rev Michael Cavanagh +353 (0)858 533 173
Praying Together 9th October 2022

Praying Together 9th October 2022

by | Oct 9, 2022 | Pray Together

hands reaching out for support

Collect for Trinity 17

Almighty God, you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless till they find their rest in you: Teach us to offer ourselves to your service, that here we may have your peace, and in the world to come may see you face to face;
through Jesus Christ our Lord

Luke 17: 11-19

 

The story of the healed lepers is one which initially appears straightforward – but isn’t. At one level, it seems to be about ingratitude – and that is certainly an element of the intended message. The ten lepers are desperate – they are prepared to proclaim Jesus’ authority so long as it suits them – but once healed, they’re not interested in continuing to follow Him.

As the saying goes, there are no atheists on a battlefield. It’s as if God is just some sort of spiritual Paracetamol, to be used in desperate situations – but once the crisis is past, He is put back in the cupboard without a thought – until the next time.

Reading closely, however, there is another, more important, message; quite easy to miss if we only consider the ingratitude.

‘And he was a Samaritan … your faith has made you well.’

The Jews despised Samaritans, seeing them as half-breed heretics. The Samaritan leper wouldn’t expect to be healed by a Jewish teacher – and certainly not treated as an equal. Like the Jews, Samaritans believed in a Messiah who would be a prophet. Of the ten, he alone realises Jesus as much more than just a Jewish healer, as did the Samaritan woman at the well – and the parable of the Samaritan who helped the man left to die by robbers gives another example of Jesus’ universal love and ministry.  For ‘Samaritan’ read ‘Everyone’.

It doesn’t matter who we are – Jesus offers healing and forgiveness to all who ask. In turn, all He asks is that we follow Him with love and service. Taking His Gospel for granted when it suits us is nothing less than a total rejection of who He is. There can be no greater insult.

A prayerful meditation – How many times?

I held the hammer. I hit the nails squarely.

The hands that made me, I slammed iron through.

I am sorry, Lord. Lord, what of me?                      I forgive you.

 

I condemned Him. I lied so they would convict Him

I perjured myself in His Presence.

I am sorry, Lord. Lord, what of me?                      I forgive you.

 

I broke His law. I ate, and watched other starve.

I drank while I saw them die of thirst.

I am sorry, Lord. Lord, what of me?                      I forgive you.

 

I was atheist. I searched; I weighed the evidence.

I could not (perhaps would not?) believe. I denied you.

I am sorry, Lord, Lord, what of me?                      I forgive you.

 

I stole. I saw what the rich had, and I envied them.

What was theirs, I took.

I am sorry, Lord. Lord, what of me?                      I forgive you.

 

I killed. In cold blood, I slew a man.

I thought my prosperity more important than his life.

I am sorry, Lord. Lord, what of me?                      I forgive you.

 

I was the prostitute.

There was nothing I would not do…

… did not do, for money.

I am sorry , Lord. Don’t worry about me,

but Lord, what of my child?                                 I forgive you.

 

I heard what you said, but of course, I don’t actually need you.

I never hurt anyone. I’m much better than all those other people.

I didn’t do anything nearly as bad.

I don’t really know much about you, but you can’t blame me for that.

I never had time to think about you, you see. Perhaps when I’m older.

Religion’s really only for children and old people, isn’t it?

And if you’re true, you’ll make sure I’m alright anyway.

So what about me?

I said, what about me?

 

WHAT ABOUT ME???

ANSWER ME!

HOW DARE YOU IGNORE ME!

JESUS CHRIST, MAN, WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

An Ordination at St Michael and All Angels, Waterville

An Ordination at St Michael and All Angels, Waterville

by | Oct 1, 2022 | News, Pray Together, St Michael and All Angels Church Waterville

hands forming a circle of support

On Thursday last, 29th September – the feast of Michaelmas – members of all four churches of our Union joined together to witness The Reverend Barbara Irrgang-Buckley being ordained Priest by the Bishop of Tuam Limerick and Killaloe, the Right Reverend Michael Burrows. This was made even more special, since it was the first ordination held in the history of the church of St Michael and All Angels Waterville, consecrated in 1866. The following is an extract of the service, and please, when you read it, pray for Barbara and her future ministry.

Revelation 12:7-12 – Michael Defeats the Dragon

And war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. The dragon and his angels fought back, but they were defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. The great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him…

…woe to the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you with great wrath, because he knows that his time is short!’

****

ordination picture collage

 

The war in heaven is won – the war on earth is still raging. And now, welcome to the front line, Barbara. You’re now the bullseye at the centre, the target of the slings and flaming arrows of outrageous fortune as you lead people in their worship and service in the name of Christ.

The biggest mistake you can make will be to try to do everything in your own strength. That’s not why you have been ordained. We are all part of God’s army, each playing our part. The leadership to which you are called is servant leadership – using your gifts to enable those you lead to deploy their own.

Fortunately, you have all the resource you need. You have truth and faith; you have a gospel of forgiveness, salvation and peace to proclaim; you have the Word of God in scripture; you have been given the gift of prayerful understanding of your mission.

But for me, there is one gift above all. When I was a boy, playing soldiers, I would wear a pretend tin helmet, as a defence.  All sorts of things will attack you over the course of your ministry – some irritating, some difficult, some hurtful. But the helmet of salvation through Jesus Christ that we wear will sustain you and encourage you through the strength of the Holy Spirit, and through your Ministry, you will build His Kingdom.

A short postscript. It’s not all hard going – the joy of ministry, seeing people come to Christ, helping His people to live the Gospel in their lives, obeying the commandment to love as He loves, all of these things, will be a continual blessing that far outreaches any difficulty. And, God willing, one day you will have the special blessing of preaching a sermon at the Ordination of a new colleague.

Just open your eyes, live your ministry life with confidence – but don’t ever let go of His hand.

Praying Together 25th September 2022

Praying Together 25th September 2022

by | Sep 25, 2022 | Pray Together

faith-what-will-it-take

Luke 16: 19-31

 

What will it take to convince you?

With thanks to Anselm of Canterbury, and his inspiration Augustine of Hippo, there are two approaches to faith. (Excuse the Latin, but I had five years of it at school and I can’t help showing off sometimes as a reward.)

Intelligere ut credam – I understand so that I may believe.

The journey to acceptance of the Lord Jesus as Saviour, redeemer and friend into our life takes many different forms. There may have been inspirational sermons – devotional books – moving music – perhaps the witness of friends or family. They set us on a path, and there will be a point at which our knowledge brings some understanding, and we realise that the Gospel is more likely to be true than not – we get to 51%, and if our search has been conscientious, the inevitable consequence is that we get on our knees and accept Jesus into our life. But deep down, when the ship of our life is approaching the rocks, there will still be a tremor of uncertainty. All that witness is ok for other people – but does it really apply to me?

The other approach is this: Credo ut intelligam – I believe, so that I may understand

In other words, faith is key to understanding. Faith. Defined in the acronym:

‘Forsaking

All ,

I

Trust

Him’

Often, we really don’t understand. In fact, we need to realise that we shall never fullyunderstand, no matter how academically rigorous our theological background. Often, belief itself is hard, especially when based on (imperfect) knowledge or understanding. But when faith is beyond me, the Good News version of Psalm 131 is the anchor on which I cling.

Lord, I have given up my pride and turned away from my arrogance. I am not concerned with great matters or with subjects too difficult for me. 

Instead, I am content and at peace. As a child lies quietly in its mother’s arms, so my heart is quiet within me. Israel, trust in the Lord now and forever!

Praying Together 18th September 2022

Praying Together 18th September 2022

by | Sep 18, 2022 | Pray Together

money-and-material-wealth

Luke 16: 1-13

 

To whom do we owe our allegiance?

 You cannot serve God and ‘wealth’

Bah. If ever there was a misleading Biblical translation, that’s it. It’s bad enough when the translated phrase reads ‘You cannot serve God and money’. Neither of those words conveys the real meaning behind Jesus’ teaching.

Wealth isn’t about possessions – as John Ruskin said,

“There is no wealth but life. Life, including all its powers of love, of joy, and of admiration. That country is the richest which nourishes the greatest numbers of noble and happy human beings; that man is richest, who, having perfected the functions of his own life to the utmost, has also the widest helpful influence, both personal, and by means of his possessions, over the lives of others.”

We might not have a massive bank balance – but we have God’s creation around us, we have unique gifts, we have a role in God’s plan, and we have the wealth of life itself, giving us the ability to live it in love and service of others. In using our wealth, we are not in opposition, but serving alongside our God. Wealth is a blessing – at least it is when properly understood.

How about Money? Not inherently a bad thing. We can use money for good – it provides a vehicle for the economic growth that allows society to function. It is not evil – it is the love of money that is the root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10)

The right translation is ‘Mammon’. ‘You cannot serve God and Mammon.’ Mammon is the Demon, Greed. A source of evil, a corrupt devotion, worship of false god. The greed that destroys beauty, causes pain, violence and war. It serves only itself, through lies and deception; it knows nothing of compassion and love. It doesn’t want to. It is never satisfied. It draws people to itself, and when they have been sucked dry, it spits them out.

Jesus said ‘I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they may welcome you into their eternal homes.’ Much good will it do you – for their homes are the gates of Hell.

 

Praying Together – 11 September 2022

Praying Together – 11 September 2022

by | Sep 11, 2022 | Pray Together

small-lamb-lost-in-long-grass

Collect for Trinity 13

 

Almighty God, who called your Church to bear witness that you were in Christ reconciling the world to yourself: Help us to proclaim the good news of your love, that all who hear it may be drawn to you; through him who was lifted up on the cross, and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven

The Tabernacle Choir (2019)

old-music-manuscript

Micah 4.1.-5

Vine and Fig Tree

Bay Area Music Project in collaboration with

the Alameda Sings! choral group

old-music-manuscript

1 Timothy 1: 12-17

Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise

(with lyrics / performed by Steve Green)

old-music-manuscript

Luke 15: 1-10

This has been one of those momentous weeks when most people remember exactly where they were when they first heard the news. President Kennedy assassinated in 1963: Neil Armstrong setting foot on the Moon: fall of the Berlin Wall: Live Aid: the planes hitting the twin towers: and now the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Someone said this week that these are the days when history stopped. But actually, it didn’t. Life went on – for some it possibly changed a little, but most carried on as normal, totally unaffected in their personal lives. Whatever event was plastered all over the papers, the sun still rose every morning, the world moved on and eventually there would be no-one alive who remembered the day – they became just stories in history books, as remote as the signing of Magna Carta. And how about Ozymandias?

In fact, the most life-changing days for most of us were private and personal. They never made the papers – but as an example, for me, the day 56 years and a few hours ago when I met a certain pretty young nurse changed my life completely – and the first times when I held our baby sons were somewhat memorable two.

World events – personal stories. They rarely affect each other.

One did, though.

On a hot, dusty afternoon in a town in occupied Israel, a young carpenter turned teacher was killed because he made the leaders of his own people uncomfortable and the Roman governor wanted a quiet life.

And on that day, everything – globally and individually – changed. Time didn’t stop, but a chapter of the history book closed, and a new one began, with a clean page.

When I Survey The Wondrous Cross

Norton Hall Band

old-music-manuscript

A Collect for Peace

Almighty God,

from whom all thoughts of truth and peace proceed:
kindle, we pray, in the hearts of all, the true love of peace
and guide with your pure and peaceable wisdom
those who take counsel for the nations of the earth
that in tranquillity your kingdom may go forward,
till the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
peaceful-sunset-panorama

A Prayer on the anniversary of

September 11 2001

On this day of solemn remembrance:

May we honour the lives that were lost in this tragic act.
May we give thanks for those who served and saved, rendered aid and assistance.
May we give comfort to those who live with loss.
May we seek justice and peace where it is within our ability,
and rely on you when the ability escapes us.

On this day of solemn remembrance:
May we build what has been torn down.
May we mend what has been broken.
May we live your love when hate seems to reign.
May we bear witness to the cause of peace.

Author Unknown

Peace to you – أنتم سلام – אַתֶּם שָׁלוֹם universal greeting peace hymn

Yamma Ensemble 2020

old-music-manuscript

We pray the Lord’s Prayer – And then as the music plays, we may break bread together as a family, a company of love that serves together as the body of Christ.

We go in peace to love and serve the Lord.

In the name of Christ. Amen.

This Is My Body, Broken For You

old-music-manuscript

Arthur and Martha: Christ the King

Arthur and Martha: Christ the King

by | Aug 2, 2022 | Pray Together, St Patrick's Church Kenmare News

Arthur and Martha: Christ the King

Arthur: “Hey Martha, it won’t be long…”

Martha: “What won’t be long?”

Arthur: “Christmas! Christmas! Yipee!”

Martha: “I know.  But we need to remember to prepare!”

Arthur: “Of course. I’m already doing that.

Martha: Really? How?

Arthur: Well… I’m checking out all the stuff I’m hoping to get!

Martha: Hoping to get?

Arthur: Of course.  There’s a couple of games for my Xbox and loads of other stuff!

Martha: Such as?

Arthur: New… football kit.   New… tracksuit. But most all…

Martha: …Yes?

Arthur: I’m hoping that I’ll find a new bike on Christmas morning.

Martha: You are?

Arthur: Sure thing it is.  And I’ve being trying really hard to be helpful around the house.

Martha: Hmmm that’s interesting… I can’t say I’ve noticed.

Arthur: Well I have. So there!  Anyway. Why aren’t you getting excited?

Martha: Funny you should ask that question.  I am getting excited and I’ll tell you why.  

Arthur: Can’t wait. What are you hoping to get for Christmas then?

Martha: Well… I do have a couple of ideas.  But I want to talk to you about the weeks leading up to Christmas first.

Arthur: Go for it sis. I’m all ears. 

Martha: Did you know that the church has a calendar? 

Arthur: Hmmm… not noticed one. Where is it?

Martha: You’re funny. not that kind of calendar.  What I mean is there is a whole cycle of events that happen throughout the year.  And there’s a pattern – a bit like a bike wheel. 

Arthur: A bit like a bike wheel?

Martha: Hmm… that’s right. It’s a cycle. But not like the one that you’re hoping for.

Arthur: Get on with it!

Martha: Okay… I’ll try.  Today is the last day in the church calendar and then the whole cycle starts again. 

Arthur: I think you’ve lost me. 

Martha: Okay… no listen and don’t interrupt.  You can ask questions later.

Arthur: Get you.  Have you ever thought of becoming a teacher?

Martha: Shhhhhh. Just listen carefully.  This is the last Sunday in the church calendar. It has a special name – Christ the King.  This is the day we remember that Jesus is the king of all the world and that He is the greatest king of all.  Just imagine. Jesus is our very best friend, but He’s a king! A king who knows you and loves you. He cares for everyone in the same way that a good shepherd cares for every one of his sheep.  This is the last Sunday of the church year and next Sunday will be special too.  It’s Advent Sunday. 

Arthur: Tell me more.

Martha: Well of course I will.  All in good time.  But here’s something interesting. Grandma told me it used to be called ‘Stir up Sunday’.

Arthur: Stir up Sunday? Why? 

Martha: Because that was the day that everyone made their Christmas pudding and everyone in the family would have a stir. There’s an old prayer for this day. It starts like this.  

Stir up your hearts oh Lord to prepare the way for your only son
By His Advent we may be enabled to serve you with purified minds
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

I like this prayer better.

Oh Jesus our King and our best friend.  
Help us to live as your children, aware of the needs of others and always ready to help.  
Amen. 

Arthur: I’m lost for words.  Imagine… my very best friend and he’s also a King! But just one question sis…

Martha: Go on then.

Arthur: If he really is everybody’s friend, I wonder what football team he supports?

Martha: Good question Arthur, but it’s one I can’t answer.  Anyway, I think I have a craft activity for you.  Would you like to make a crown?  It’s starting to rain, so go inside and collect crayons and some glue.  

Arthur: Great idea!  What are you going to do?

Martha: Finish reading my book.  You’ll enjoy it when you’re a bit older. 

Arthur: You sure? What’s the story?

Martha: It’s called ‘The Last Battle’.

Arthur: Any good?

Martha: Well I think so. One day you should read it for yourself. 

Arthur: Okay… I’m off to get the stuff together.  Nice chat sis.

Martha: Now you could make a crown too and for bigger kids, I can recommend the book I’m reading. It would make a good Christmas gift!

That’s all folks! See you again soon!