Blog Archives

Wednesday 31st March 2021

31/3/2021

Beside The Burn
Hope At Easter. During this Pandemic do you ever feel that you are Sinking? This week we have a series of special messages for Easter Week. Each day we find Hope At Easter as we listen to what Jesus said from the cross. We have a bible reading some special music from Eileen a message from J. John, a testimony about Trypraying and a guest singer. Listen each day (including Saturday) and share with someone who might benefit.

Say Yes To Jesus
If you would like to trust Jesus find out more here.
https://www.ucb.co.uk/yes

Glorious Day
Yesterday on Tides we were invited to listen to this song by Casting Crowns - Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me)

Let’s Pray For Derek & Jane French (global mission workers in Spain)
Pray for Derek for a quick and successful recovery from a recent operation. Pray too for Bilbao International Church and the leadership team as they take on more responsibility and for those coming to the church who are seeking, that they will come to faith in Christ.

Malawi
Pray for the Student Christian Organisation of Malawi and Scripture Union Malawi as they spread the gospel to children and teenagers in Malawi and seek to disciple young Christians in their Christian faith.

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Thou Shalt

Jesus In Jerusalem
The Bible Society have created a series of videos which follow Jesus’ footsteps in Holy Week.

EMF
The latest Prayer Diary and Newsletter from EMF and a video from their recent conference.
C. H. Spurgeon famously quipped, "The Word of God is like a lion. You don't have to defend a lion. All you have to do is let the lion loose..." God's powerful Word is 'let loose' through faithful preaching and teaching, but also through the written word and the printed page, which can often reach people where there are few, if any, gospel workers.

EMF Spring Conference 2021: Unleashing God’s Word - The Bible's message preached and published from European Mission Fellowship on Vimeo.

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SU
The latest prayer letter and Termly News from Andrew Neill

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Belfast City Mission
Virtual Rally Thursday 29th April 2021

Open Doors - World Watch List
Open Doors has released the World Watch List. The list of countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian in 2021.
The full list can be found here
https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/

This week the focus is on Iraq the 10th most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. Read about it here
https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/iraq/

24/7 Prayer Course
This week we continue the 24/7 Prayer Course with Pete Greig - a course which we took part in a couple of years ago on Wednesday evenings. The videos have been re-recorded and a couple more sessions have been added since then. Here is a link to this week’s resource guide.
https://prayercourse.org/session/spiritual-warfare/

This is the final week of the prayer course, I hope you have enjoyed it over the last two months.
Below is the link to the website of the whole course and you can watch any of the individual sessions again.
https://prayercourse.org/sessions/

Christian Unions Ireland
The prayer points for this week.

26th – 31st March
– Three out of the four members of Cork Institute of Technology CU committee are graduating this year. With a small CU and not many students coming behind, pray that the right people are found to form a new committee and continue helping the CU grow in evangelism and care for their campus.
– Give thanks for the boldness and creativity of students in mission. Pray for those planning outreach events and talks this semester, seeking to proclaim God’s goodness as warmly and relationally as possible, whilst juggling with Covid–regulations.

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Janice 1:44
Derek 2:55
Jean 3:07

Play the "Derwentwater Wednesday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=39743a543112

1 Comment

Tuesday 30th March 2021

30/3/2021

1 Comment

Say Yes To Jesus
If you would like to trust Jesus find out more here.
https://www.ucb.co.uk/yes

What Kind Of Follower
An honest conversation about walking with Jesus.
https://www.eauk.org/resources/what-we-offer/courses-and-small-groups/what-kind-of-follower

Let’s Pray For Paula Burrows (deaconess in Ballygrainey)
Pray for Paula and the work she is involved in which includes the Lighthouse Club, Tweenies group, women's discipleship (through PW and other small group settings) and developing mission opportunities in the community through Holiday Bible Clubs, Bangor Cares, etc.

Galway Presbyterian Church
Pray that online services and gatherings would be used for God's glory. Pray for the leaders, for youth and student work, for those doing online membership classes and for children’s ministry. Pray for revival in the West.

New City Catechism
Q. What Sort of Redeemer is Needed to Bring Us Back to God?
A. One who is truly human and also truly God.

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/new-city-catechism/what-sort-of-redeemer-is-needed-to-bring-us-back-to-god/

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
On Eagle’s Wings

If Hell Is Real
In this episode of TGC Q&A, @JaredCWilson and @AfshinZiafat discuss the question, “If hell is real, how do Christians justify anything except evangelism?”
https://t.co/Ezu7ibsRJW

Jesus In Jerusalem
The Bible Society have created a series of videos which follow Jesus’ footsteps in Holy Week.

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Jean 2:56
Frances 3:56

Play the "Salmon House" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=0634e9ef8025

1 Comment

Monday 29th March 2021

29/3/2021

2 Comments

Say Yes To Jesus
If you would like to trust Jesus find out more here.
https://www.ucb.co.uk/yes

Let’s Pray For Moderator
With Easter approaching, the Moderator will reflect on the theme of Hope during a number of services and at other events. Give thanks that our times are in God’s hands, and that because of this we can be a people of hope in trying times.

Worshipping with Easter in sight
As we worship with Easter in sight, ask God that we might know the reassurance that Jesus is King and praise him as the one who still comes to us in the name of the Lord.

Naomi Leremore (global mission worker in Kenya)
Ask for God’s blessing on the Theological Education by Extension’s curriculum team which Naomi is part of, as they design a mentoring book for girls. Pray over their first meeting which will take place in April and for the preparation work needing to be done beforehand.

Myanmar
Pray for Myanmar following the recent military coup and protests against it. Pray for peace and for the restoration of democracy. Pray too for the leaders and members of the Presbyterian Church of Myanmar.

Facing The Canon
In this weeks Facing the Canon episode, J.John speaks with apologist and evangelist Dr Amy Orr-Ewing about a Christian response to pain and suffering.

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Bread Of Heaven

Jesus In Jerusalem
The Bible Society have created a series of videos which follow Jesus’ footsteps in Holy Week.
Read more here and watch the video below.
https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/explore-the-bible/bible-trek/jesus-enters-jerusalem-bible-trek-easter-series-01/

Dead Sea Scrolls
Earlier this week, Israeli archeologists announced the discovery of dozens of Dead Sea Scroll fragments. Here are nine things you know about the greatest manuscript discovery of modern times.
https://t.co/XFhpSpQdNc

http://twitter.com/TGC/status/1374036906053398534

Is He Worthy?
From Andrew Peterson

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Derek 15:06

Play the "Portstewart Monday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=36ce3790f5f4

2 Comments

Friday 26th March 2021

26/3/2021

0 Comments

Beside The Burn
This week we continue week 5 of the Journey of Lent, a journey of 40 days through the Wilderness with Jesus Christ towards Easter. We go on a Journey of New Life with Jesus through the wilderness as the Holy Spirit takes dry bones and breaths new life.

Look out next week for a series of special devotionals for Holy Week.

Let’s Pray For Social Witness
Pray for all our home and unit managers as they approach the first anniversary of the coronavirus outbreak. Pray for renewed energy as they begin to manage the transition and attempt to return to some level of normality over the weeks and months to come. Give thanks for their dedication, resourcefulness and compassion over the Covid-19 crisis.

Media
Pray for those who bring us the news, working in difficult days and changed working environments – especially those who are under threat. Give thanks for the freedom of the press that we enjoy across the island of Ireland.

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Flesh Pots

At home with the Gettys
A documentary by Stephen Watson with keith and Kristyn Getty on BBC Thursday 1st April 10:45pm

The Hiding Place
Everyday we share another instalment of the film about Corrie Ten Boom Part 15

Dead Sea Scrolls Discovered (11 minute video)
If you can cope with the enthusiasm of the presenter this is a short news bulletin detailing the new discovery of Dead Sea Scrolls.
On today's Watchman Newscast, host Erick Stakelbeck is joined by top Israeli tour guide and archaeologist Danny "The Digger" Herman to break down one of the most important archaeological discoveries in years. For the first time in decades, Israeli archaeologists have found a new set of Dead Sea Scrolls during a daring excavation in a remote cave in the Judean Desert. Included among the finds were fragments of 2,000-year-old Biblical manuscripts containing verses from the Biblical books of Nahum and Zechariah, written in Greek. What priceless Biblical artifacts might archaeologists find next?

Anything You Want (30 minute Audio)
If God said you could have anything you wanted, what would you choose? We look at this question, and many more, in our 30-minute study of 1 Kings! Listen now on UCB Player.
https://t.co/qahfhQtM1f

Conversion Therapy (8 minute video)
Some ask why we @EAUKnews are speaking up about conversion therapy. In this Q&A we explain that we oppose abusive and harmful practices associated with conversion therapy but are calling on the government to protect those seeking spiritual support.
https://t.co/86v5RizG9e

FILM CHOICE
This week I continue to suggest a film each day. These videos are free to watch but may take a little longer than the usual video to fully appreciate.
Hudson Taylor Into The Heart of the Dragon (58 minute video)
The story of Hudson Taylor who pioneered missionary work to China.

Piping Up Organ Concert at Temple Square (30 minute video)
Another organ concert from 25th December 2020

Are You a Spiritual Person?
What does Paul mean by “those who are spiritual”? The answer is found in the rest of Galatians.
https://t.co/7sJrpzeWI0

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Derek 3:03
Jean 3:05
Frances 3:30

A more challenging puzzle for the weekend.
Play the "Strand Friday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=337c988053d0

0 Comments

Thursday 25th March 2021

25/3/2021

2 Comments

Let’s Pray For Heidi England (deaconess in Railway Street, Lisburn)
Pray for those in the congregation who are isolated, bereaved or afraid, that they will experience Jesus himself ministering to them. Pray for the women who take part in the online Bible study, that they will hear God speaking to them and pray too for Heidi as she leads it.

Fahan congregation
Pray for wisdom and discernment for all involved in the Fahan and Waterside vacancy. Pray for the online services and midweeks viewed by many non-members, and for support for the wider community.

All Your Anxiety
This hymn was mentioned during the prayer meeting yesterday so I thought I would share it with everyone.

All your anxiety, all your care
Bring to the mercy seat, leave it there,
Never a burden He cannot bear,
Never a friend like Jesus!

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Red Sea

The Hiding Place
Everyday we share another instalment of the film about Corrie Ten Boom Part 14

FILM CHOICE
This week I continue to suggest a film each day. These videos are free to watch but may take a little longer than the usual video to fully appreciate.
Count Zinzendorf: The Rich Young Ruler Who Said Yes (1 hour 45 minute video)
A film detailing in four programs the life and ministry of Count Zinzendorf who set aside a life of wealth, politics and privilege to follow God's call. Once in a while someone comes along who has a profound effect on the course of future history. Count Zinzendorf was one of those remarkable people. Born into nobility in 1700, he put aside a life of wealth, politics and privilege to follow God's call. He established a refugee settlement for persecuted Christians.

Hardened Heart (27 minute video)
What did it mean when the Bible said God hardened Pharaoh's heart? @greglaurie explores this topic and looks at how we can make sure OUR OWN hearts are not hardened. Watch now on UCB Player. https://t.co/kM2bdFFKNr

A Song A Month
Since the world changed last March, musicians have captured this season’s many moods and themes. Here are 12 highlights—one from each month.

https://t.co/gfhY6k5UyV

Salvation
Here is a song-based resource on the Doctrine of Salvation you can use to teach your children. https://t.co/xKgajVrbi9

Did Jesus Exist
How do we know that Jesus really existed, was crucified and died? Is it rational to believe that Jesus rose from the dead? How can we trust what Jesus’ disciples reported?

https://t.co/GaWjkkzO5p

Sustaining Life
Should we do everything medically possible to sustain life?
The answer to this question has changed even though God’s Word has not changed.
https://t.co/SHkDn4ZiBH

What Does Hebrews 11:1 Mean?
What is the author of Hebrews getting at in this verse?
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
The author of Hebrews is presenting much more than a definition of what faith is, but also offering a summary of what faith does.
https://www.crossway.org/articles/what-does-hebrews-111-mean/

Piping Up Organ Concert at Temple Square (30 minute video)
Another organ concert from 2nd December 2020

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Jean 3:06
Derek 3:06
Frances 3:47

Play the "Portstewart Thursday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=03861a67b2fc

2 Comments

Wednesday 24th March 2021

24/3/2021

2 Comments

Let’s Pray For Csaba & Ilona Veres (global mission workers in Romania)
Pray for the Diakonia nursing staff working in the pandemic and that many would be strengthened by the fortnightly support group which Csaba runs for them. Pray for the literacy classes and after-school programme which has restarted in Méra which Ilona is involved in.

Zambia
Pray for the leadership of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian Synod of Zambia as they continue to support their congregations during this time. Pray for the Zambian government as they seek vaccines.

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Passover

The Hiding Place
Everyday we share another instalment of the film about Corrie Ten Boom Part 13

FILM CHOICE
This week I continue to suggest a film each day. These videos are free to watch but may take a little longer than the usual video to fully appreciate.
The Power Of the Persecuted Church (41 minute video)
In countries where Christians are persecuted and suppressed Christianity is increasing rapidly. This has happened for example in China and more recently, in the Arabic world. How do persecuted Christians see their life and faith? What is the secret of their success and why the number of Christians tend to rise in the middle of persecution?

Walk Talk Pray
Don’t forget about this resource from Evangelical Alliance which encourages us to pray for our local community as we get out and about more.

https://www.eauk.org/resources/what-we-offer/reports/walk-pray-talk?utm_source=twitter+

Lament (3 minute video)
A spoken word, short film addressing the grief and challenges caused by the pandemic, and in sharing the message of hope found in Jesus Christ

Lament - A spoken word

Ruth (30 minute audio)
Having celebrated International Women's Day, we can look at the story of Ruth: why is her love story still so relevant today? How does this true story demonstrate that God can arrange coincidences? Find out in 'Bible Books in 30 Minutes.'
https://ucb.lightcast.com/player/31345/343520

Is God Fair to Judge Us?
Rebecca McLaughlin says, “Most of us like to think we’re basically good people. We know we’re not perfect. We sometimes do bad things. But at heart, we think we’re pretty good.”
“So the idea that we might one day be judged by God doesn’t seem fair. But what if, at heart, we actually aren’t good?”
https://www.crossway.org/articles/is-god-fair-to-judge-us/

Piping Up Organ Concert at Temple Square (30 minute video)
Another organ concert from 1st January 2021

10 Days Of Easter
Remind yourself every day how much God loves you with 10 days of Easter-themed devotions from Our Daily Bread! Sign up today, and The Greatest Love reading plan emails will arrive in your inbox March 26–April 4.
http://go.odb.org/easter2021

Open Doors - World Watch List
Open Doors has released the World Watch List. The list of countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian in 2021.
The full list can be found here
https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/

This week the focus is on India the 10th most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. Read about it here
https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/india/

Christian Unions Ireland
The prayer points for this week.

19th – 25th March
– From the 22nd March, CUI will be interviewing Staff and Relay Worker applicants. Please pray for discernment and for God’s clear guidance, and for people who with a deep love for Jesus and heart for student mission.
– Pray for Equip:Leaders on the 19th – 21st March, a weekend to fuel new CU leaders with the gospel of Jesus Christ, to excite them for a year of CU mission, and empower them to lead on campus.

Dublin City Mission
The latest prayer update from the Dublin City Mission

dcm_winter_2021_dcm_spotlight.pdf
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Prevailing Prayer (3:30 hour audio)
Another free Audio book from Youtube, Prevailing prayer from Dwight L Moody.

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Jean 2:52

Another one from the Lake District last summer.
Play the "Lake District Wednesday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=34b514632c09

2 Comments

Tuesday 23rd March 2021

23/3/2021

1 Comment

A Year Ago Today
It was a year ago today that the Prime Minister announced Lockdown measures. Today we have been asked at 12 noon to reflect and remember. As Christians we also have the greatest privilege of being able to pray today as we have been doing throughout the year.
Today on Tides Rev. Tony Davidson helps focus our thoughts on God’s word.
You can read Tides HERE

We also reflected yesterday on the Blog, read it again HERE

Let’s Pray For Michelle Stewart (community outreach worker in Cloughey)
Pray for making contacts, building new relationships and strengthening current relationships within the community. Pray that the church in Cloughey will continually be a witness and a shining light in the village. Pray for guidance for Michelle in all she does.

Dundalk Presbyterian Church
Thank God for his continuing provision for Dundalk congregation, and for his protection and peace. Pray that the members of the congregation will continue to serve the Lord and worship him during the pandemic.

Myanmar Update
Update from a HeartCry missionary in #Myanmar: "Our missionary has informed us that this afternoon there was a horrible shooting near his house. There were dead bodies in the city. They do not know how many dead bodies were there. I believe no government or even the devil can operate outside the permissive will of God. At the same time, I believe God answers His children’s prayers and He protects His people."
Read the Update Here. b
https://heartcrymissionary.com/mission-updates/myanmar-update-march-2021/

Thoughts On Tuesdays

Many of you now have a copy of Wilma’s “Thought On Tuesdays” which was produced to raise money for ZAP. Wilma sends the following message of thanks and below you can read an article which will appear in the local paper.

I would appreciate if you would inform Burnside members that £5400 has been raised by the circulation of my book in aid of ZAP (Zumba Action Project)
Please convey my appreciation to all those who helped circulate the book
The amount raised would not have been possible if had not been for the support and help of so many in Burnside.
Wilma Devenney

Read the press release below and in the file to the right.

burnside_report_on_wilmas_fundraising.pdf
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Hard Headed

Heroes of the Faith: With J.John
James Clerk Maxwell believed that because the universe had been created by God and that human beings had been made in God’s image, it was perfectly reasonable that we could – and should – try to understand the universe.
https://canonjjohn.com/2021/03/20/heroes-of-the-faith-james-clerk-maxwell/

Podcast Version
https://player.captivate.fm/e80220bf-0071-4e87-ac95-d261abfa1cef

New City Catechism

Who is the Redeemer?

The only Redeemer is the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, in whom God became man and bore the penalty for sin himself.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/new-city-catechism/who-is-the-redeemer/

The Hiding Place
Everyday we share another instalment of the film about Corrie Ten Boom Part 12

Doubting Thomas (12 minute audio)
Ever related to Doubting Thomas? We all experience doubt sometimes, but Thomas was so much more than his nickname. Ben Jack from the @MessageTrust joined Vicky Gibbens on Talking Point to share more...
https://t.co/ac55ItcDkD

FILM CHOICE
This week I continue to suggest a film each day. These videos are free to watch but may take a little longer than the usual video to fully appreciate.
Jon Hus (51 minute video)
We have all probably heard of John Calvin and Martin Luther but there are many more significant characters involved in the Reformation. Today we have the story of John Hus.
A 14th century Czech priest and scholar, John Hus is considered one of the first Protestant reformers. His interpretation of scripture and his bold stand against church corruption would strongly influence Martin Luther a century later. Hus spent his last days as a prisoner in Constance on charges of heresy. During his imprisonment Hus formed an unusual friendship with one of his jailers, Robert Talio.

Before the Rebuild (4 minute video)
Not yet, but soon God willing, we will enter a different phase in this pandemic - a time of rebuilding. This week we consider three ‘R’s (repentance, reconciliation and relationships) in the context of foundations which the Church could help to lay before the great rebuild begins….

https://www.reimaginingfaith.com/think-friday/think-friday-before-the-rebuild/2021/2

Finding Peace
In this episode of TGC Q&A, @JohnPiper and @TripLee discuss the question, “How do I find peace when unsaved loved ones die?”

https://t.co/oRKIn0pq9Q

2 Samuel
What are the dangers of trying to run ahead of God? Can we hide our secrets from God? Find out in this episode of 'Bible Books in 30 Minutes' where we look at 2 Samuel.
http://ow.ly/EmyB50E1uWg

Piping Up Organ Concert at Temple Square (33 minute video)
Another organ concert from Wednesday March 10, 2021

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Derek 3:02
Frances 3:48

Play the "Waves Tuesday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=3cee90d8ad67

1 Comment

Monday 22nd March 2021

22/3/2021

1 Comment

Let’s Pray For Peter & Jayne Fleming (global mission workers in Nepal)
Pray for them as they continue to support United Mission to Nepal and Kathmandu International Study Centre from Northern Ireland. Pray that they will be able to return to Nepal soon. Pray that UMN’s agreements with the government of Nepal will be renewed without further delay.

Syria & Lebanon
Pray for the work and witness of the National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon, especially for their efforts to bring humanitarian aid and education to the many refugees and displaced people in the region.

One Year Ago Today
On the Monday 23rd March 2020 we started this journey together on “The Blog”
Click any of the dates to remind yourself of the early blog enteries.
It started off rather simply,
Monday 23rd,
Tuesday 24th and
Wednesday 25th
were just thoughts based on Trypraying and Tides.
But by Thursday 26th there were free Christian Audiobooks and a list of shops offering Home Delivery.
It would be a few more days (Wednesday 1st April) before pictures started illustrating the stories.
It was Thursday 30th April before the the first Where Is It? appeared.
But Does anyone know when the first Jigsaw appeared?

Lockdown
Do you remember what Lockdown was like when it started a year ago?
A friend posted this list while we were in the midst of the first lockdown, because he wanted to remember what it was like. It is by no means complete, many of the measures are still in place, but it is incredible how quickly we forget some of the details.

Diesel price was £1.12
Petrol £0.99
Schools closed (except for key worker’s children)
Self-distancing of 2 metres becomes normal practice.
Tape on the floors at supermarkets and others to help keep 2 metres from each other.
Limited number of people inside supermarkets, with long queues waiting to enter.
One way system in supermarkets with no going back for forgotten items.
Non-essential shops and businesses are closed.
Parks, trails, entire cities locked up.
Entire sports seasons cancelled or postponed.
Concerts, tours, festivals, entertainment events - cancelled.
People struggle to make it home from other countries as flights are cancelled.
Cruise ships are unable to dock as Coronavirus spreads onboard.
Weddings, family celebrations, holiday gatherings - cancelled.
Churches are closed.
Graveyards closed except for funeral services.
Numbers at funerals severely restricted and wakes not allowed.
No gatherings of 2 or more (except with people from within your own household).
Unable to socialise with anyone outside of your home.
Children's outdoor play parks are closed.
Shortage of masks, gowns, gloves for our front-line workers.
Shortage of ventilators for the critically ill.
Panic buying sets in and we have no toilet paper, no disinfecting supplies, no paper towels, no hand sanitiser.
Shelves are bare.
Manufacturers, distilleries and other businesses switch their lines to help make visors, masks, hand sanitiser and PPE.
All non-essential travel banned.
Fines are established for breaking the rules.
Police patrolling the streets and calling swimmers out of the sea on the Strand.
Nightingale Hospital set up to cope with the overflow of Covid-19 patients.
Visiting stoped in Hospitals and Care Homes
Press conferences daily from the government.
Furlough introduced, the government to pay 80% of employees wages where businesses cannot continue to do so.
Press briefings broadcast on TV every day, with updates on numbers of new cases and deaths.
Hardly anyone on the roads.
Elbow Bumping becomes a thing.
Key workers are concerned about going to work.
Medical workers are afraid to go home to their families.
Supplies of PPE are limited.

A Year Of Lockdown
A lot has changed over the last year, here is the Strand

Getty Family Hymn Sing
In case you missed it on Sunday or simply want to watch it again here is the Getty Family Hymn Sing for St. Patrick’s Day

Ballyclare Male Voice Choir
Also the Concert by Ballyclare Male Voice Choir from Sunday

Jasmine Morris
A couple of weeks ago we congratulated Jasmine on being appointed leader of the Ulster Youth Orchestra. Here is a recording for St. Patrick’s Day made by the Orchestra and introduced by Jasmine.

J. John
Facing the Canon this week is Gavin Calver, CEO of the Evangelical Alliance

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Plagues Of Biblical Proportion - A very timely message today.

The Hiding Place
Everyday we share another instalment of the film about Corrie Ten Boom Part 11 MONDAY

Piping Up Organ Concert at Temple Square (30 minute video)
An organ concert from Wednesday March 17, 2021
Program:
1. Sinfonia from Cantata 29, “We Thank Thee, God,” BWV 29 (Bach)
2. “Prelude on a Swedish Folksong (Värmeland, the Beautiful)” (Cundick)
3. “Come, Come Ye Saints” (arr. Elliott)
4. “Slane” (arr. Elliott)
5. Concert Variations on the Austrian Hymn (Paine)

Faith (25 minute video)
Want to have a deeper faith in God and His Word? Watch this episode of Gifts of the Holy Spirit as Jonathan Conrathe explores how faith comes to us and the different types of faith that we can receive when we invite the Holy Spirit to work in our lives.

https://t.co/kT98kjhKNf

FILM CHOICE (51 minute video)
This week I continue to suggest a film each day. These videos are free to watch but may take a little longer than the usual video to fully appreciate.
John Wesley
The faith that sparked the Methodist Movement

Statement From PCI
On Friday the Presbyterian Church In Ireland issued a statement expressing “grave concern” at proposals to allow the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to give direction to Northern Ireland’s Department of Health, over the head of the Northern Ireland Executive.
You can read the full statement at the end of the Blog today.

Discover Portrush
Discover Portrush have organised a series of online events this week. They go live each evening at 7:00pm on their Website.
https://discoverportrush.com/

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Derek 14:37

At the beginning of Lockdown the play arena at the crescent was taped off.

Play the "Crescent Monday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=17c9421aceaa

Grave concern’ at NIO proposals
Statement Issued By PCI on 19 March 2021

The Presbyterian Church in Ireland has expressed its ‘grave concern’ at proposals to allow the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to give direction to Northern Ireland’s Department of Health, over the head of the Northern Ireland Executive.

In a statement it said, “The Presbyterian Church in Ireland’s General Council Standing Committee, meeting today (19 March), noted with grave concern the proposal of the Secretary for State for Northern Ireland to seek powers to give direction to Northern Ireland’s Department of Health.

“To do so at a time when the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive is functioning, represents a serious undermining of the devolved settlement, when there is already significant tension regarding other aspects of the way Northern Ireland is being affected post Brexit.

“The Presbyterian Church in Ireland objected strongly to the Westminster government previously imposing laws on Northern Ireland that removed the protection of the lives of unborn children. This damaging step was taken over the heads of our elected Assembly, with the excuse given that the devolved institutions were not functioning at that time. No such excuse for the undermining of devolution can be used at this time.

The statement concluded by saying, “The Presbyterian Church calls upon the Secretary of State not to take the step he proposes and to let the Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly seek to find a consensus way forward, in line with the principle upon which devolution is founded.”

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Friday 19th March 2021

19/3/2021

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Beside The Burn
This week we continue week 4 of the Journey of Lent, a journey of 40 days through the Wilderness with Jesus Christ towards Easter. We will discover that Wilderness is a much more positive experience than we might imagine and we pray that we will be drawn into a deeper relationship with Jesus as we embark on a Sacrificial Journey with Jesus

Let’s Pray For Social Witness
Pray for the work of Specialist Services as they endeavour to deliver services in these
challenging times. Pray for those individuals in need of treatment for their addiction and those being released from prison. Give thanks for Thompson House, Carlisle House and Gray’s Court and for the dedicated staff teams.

Education
Give thanks for school leaders, teachers, assistants, support staff and governors and for all their work in connecting with pupils over the past year and in making the school environment safe. Pray the return to in-classroom learning would be smooth, with enough energy, creativity and stamina to keeping going for another term.

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Task Masters

The Hiding Place
Everyday we share another instalment of the film about Corrie Ten Boom Part 10

Spiritual Gifts (40 minute audio)
On this episode of Let’s Talk, @MelissaBKruger, @JasmineLHolmes, and @JackieHillPerry discuss whether spiritual gifts are tied to natural giftedness, and whether they only show up only after conversion.
https://t.co/OjnzIH1FfC

Hope At Easter
Angelina Cowan, PCI global mission worker in Tuam, Kenya, shares some pictures of what hope filled lives look like amid the realities of life in Christ in Kenya.
https://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/March-2021/Hope-at-Easter.aspx

Presbyterian Historical Society
The talk on ‘Old Belfast Presbyterian Churches in Belfast’ by Tom Hartley originally planned for 2020 as part of the annual Lecture Programme of the Presbyterian Historical Society had to be cancelled due to the Coronavirus emergency. In this presentation Tom traces the history of 13 lost Presbyterian Meeting Houses in Inner City early 19th Century Belfast. (Please note the distinction between “Presbyterian” and “Presbyterian Church In Ireland” This talk covers lots of different “Presbyterian” churches.

Not Born Ready
When it came to being our high priest, Jesus wasn’t born ready. He was born as a helpless infant who needed to grow in wisdom and stature. True, the incarnation was absolutely necessary for us to be saved, since our high priest needed to be human to represent us. But sinners like us don’t just need saving; we also need sympathy. And sympathy requires experience that Baby Jesus (or Teenage Jesus, for that matter) didn’t yet have.
Read more here.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/jesus-high-priest-training/

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Derek 2:48
Jean 2:54

Play the "Diamond Portstewart Friday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=19221f7ac86d

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Thursday 18th March 2021

18/3/2021

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Re-opening Of Church Buildings
Yesterday PCI took the decision that church buildings could re-open from Friday 2nd April 2021 for in-person services. This means that we will have a church service on Easter Sunday at 11:00am in Burnside. We will still be social standing and therefore have limited capacity although there will be a video link into the overflow in the Church Hall. Masks must be worn while inside the church building and social distancing maintained outside. The Church building will also be well ventilated but at least we are moving into milder weather. More details will be provided over the next couple of weeks.

Missing Not One (The Perfect Love Of Christ) | Immanuel Worship
We imagine God keeping count of our every sin, missing not one. But in Christ, He is erasing our record of sins and writing in the record of Christ’s virtues, missing not one.

For The Beauty Of The Earth
Thank you to Frances who has found another version of the hymn from Sunday with the words I was looking for.

Let’s Pray For Christine Wilson (community outreach worker, Lisnabreen, Bangor)
Pray for Lisnabreen church family as they seek to meet the many spiritual, physical, emotional and mental health needs of the local community. Pray for their new Doorstep Ministries, seeking to offer practical help and resources to those in greatest need.

Drogheda congregation
Pray that online services and ministries will encourage people in their faith and be a means of witness for the gospel. Pray for plans to celebrate Easter through church services and a holiday Bible club online.

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Let My People Go

The Hiding Place
Everyday we share another instalment of the film about Corrie Ten Boom Part 9

The Rusty Gap
Have you become rusty at sharing your faith? Gareth Black writes a word of encouragement.

https://www.solas-cpc.org/the-rusty-gap/

Isn’t Teaching Your Faith to Your Children “Indoctrination”? (3 minute video)
Andy Bannister answers this question.
https://www.solas-cpc.org/isnt-teaching-your-faith-to-your-children-indoctrination/

God’s Providence
In this short extract from his new book, John Piper discusses the hard to fathom subject of God’s providence.
https://www.crossway.org/articles/what-is-divine-providence/

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Derek 2:40
Jean 3:06

A puzzle from our trip to Keswick last summer.

Play the "Derwentwater Thursday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=26b1d4ded50f

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