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Mill Road, Portstewart, BT55 7SW
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Thursday 30th April 20202

30/4/2020

1 Comment

 
Tides
Today on the road to Emmaus, Jesus and the two disciples are eating together and Jesus is explaining what has happened from the Old Testament. Suddenly their minds were opened. Tommy Bruce writes about the light bulb moments when suddenly we understand something that has been troubling us. He suggests that we should -
Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you through what you read, reminding you of his promises, revealing more of who he is and what he asks of you.
It is always a good idea, each time we read the bible to write down, not what the notes have said or the study bible says, but to write down what God has said to us in our hearts. It is great if you can jot that down in your bible so that the next time you open that passage the reminder is there of what God has said in the past.

Scripture Union North Coast E3 Worker - Andrew Neill
The latest Prayer Letter is now available from Andrew.
You an find it HERE in the prayer section of our Website.  
Andrew and other E3 workers have been producing online assemblies two of which you can view below.
New Horizon
This is a real treat, all of the content from New Horizon 2019 is free to download until the end of June 2020. All the seminars, bible readings and evening celebrations can be listened to. Content is also available from other years but you will be charged.
With no Convention or New Horizon this year, this is a great opportunity to attend and benefit from the bible teaching. There are also plans to have an online New Horizon this summer.
https://bit.ly/2VYEVJa

Virtual Prayer Room
Do remember the Virtual Prayer Room continues to be available on the Burnside Website.
https://bit.ly/2ybwnab
You will find lots of sections to help you and guide you in your praying.

Lee McAllister Service
Remember our Midweek Service from Lee McAllister
​
https://bit.ly/2KEVogw
​Donald Trump's Mother's Home
Sometimes I find things that are just too good not to share. I was looking for a Psalm for the beginning of the service on Sunday, (which proved much more difficult than I anticipated) and I came across this programme. I haven’t had time to watch it yet but the title intrigues me. “BBC visits Donald Trump's Mother's home on Isle Of Lewis, Scotland”, you may already have seen this on Songs of Praise.
Opening of Churches?
It will probably be quite some time before Churches reopen, and even then it will be with many restrictions. We have however begun planning for when the restrictions may be relaxed, Jim McCracken has already been measuring out the church and hall to see how we can accommodate worshippers while maintaining social distancing.

This week Agriculture minister Edwin Poots speaking at the local daily press conference began the debate and said the following.
It is now more than five weeks since the restrictions on movement, gatherings and trading came into force and at this afternoon’s daily Stormont press conference both the DUP’s Edwin Poots and Sinn Fein’s Deirdre Hargey emphasised that there will be no imminent move towards lifting most of those restrictions.
However, Mr Poots suggested the possibility of easing the rules in certain areas such as church gatherings where people can be kept apart or on solitary activities such as angling.
He stressed that such changes would only be made in line with medical and scientific advice, but said that ministers were aware of the negative impact of the current rules on the mental health of the population.

Mr Poots said that he attends a church which has 700 seats and added: ”If we can facilitate social distancing, can we do it? That’s a reasonable question to ask.
“If you have a church where you can’t facilitate social distancing but people want to come together, can you do it in drive-in churches, for example, so that people don’t get out of their cars and they listen to the service through the radio but they still gather?
“Those are all questions that we as an Executive have to look at.”

He said there was a need for “harsh restrictions” at the outset bu that “I believe that we can keep people with us by having a graduated response to it...giving people a little more latitude to engage in some of the activities that they prefer to engage in.”
An​d Finally
It may get a bit boring looking at pictures of Portstewart in beautiful sunshine (I know it never gets boring) So I thought I would share a few different pictures today. 
“Where is It?” 
Where would you find these Cherry Blossoms?
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Perhaps an extra clue.
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The problems of trying to take a picture of the cherry blossoms.
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1 Comment

Wednesday 29th April 2020

28/4/2020

0 Comments

 
What happened yesterday? Rain?
It seems a long time since we last had any rain, almost as long as Lockdown, and more is on the way today.
​
Tides
​
Today in Luke 24 Jesus appears before the disciples in the middle of a locked room. The disciples are amazed at what they see, even though they have already heard that Jesus is alive. We also know that Jesus is alive but sometimes we display our doubt by limiting what we think Jesus can do. Tommy Bruce today asks a very challenging set of questions.
Is your mind closed to the possibilities of what God is doing? You have read the promises in his Word, you have heard the first-hand accounts from others of what he has done.

​Take time to ask yourself, am I really allowing Jesus to be Lord, or do I live with an image of him as little more than an upgraded version of myself? 

“Do I live with an image of Jesus as little more than an upgraded version of myself?”
​Do we think that we could be like Jesus, if only we put in a little more effort? If only we were a bit more dedicated then we could perhaps reach that same level. Jesus, however is not just an upgraded version of ourselves He is completely different. He is perfect, without sin, and we do not try to climb up to his level, instead we fall down as low as we can and accept his perfect life, in place of our sinful life. Jesus doesn’t just make bits of our lives a little better, He changes all of our lives completely.

Virtual Prayer Room
The prayer meeting in Burnside normally takes place on a Wednesday morning. There is a loyal group of folk gather every Wednesday to pray for the members of the congregation, the community and the world. This group of prayers have continued to Pray At Home every Wednesday during Lockdown. Today we are pleased to welcome all of you to our Virtual Prayer Room. A place on the church Website where you can go any time you want to pray.
You can access the Virtual Prayer Room here. (There is also a Link on the front page of the Website)
https://bit.ly/2ybwnab
You will find lots of sections to help you and guide you in your praying. Set a time each day or week to go into the room and pray, or just drop by anytime, for a few moments, when you want to spend some time in God’s presence. There will always be more content being added so do come back often.
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Lee McAllister Service
After joining us for Good Friday, Lee has very kindly recorded another  service for us in Burnside. You can watch the service here.
https://bit.ly/2KEVogw

Arthur Parke
Arthur has sent his latest prayer update. You can read it at the link below.
https://bit.ly/2Y8WzwH

Neighbours
Last night the Castletown Park Neighbours featured on the BBC News.
Remember I mentioned them on 17th April 2020 

Through the Valley
How do you respond when you’re going through a difficult time? Dr John Andrews explores this in his latest book Beyond Broken – Finding Power in the Pain. He joined Paul Hammond for an episode of Life Issues on UCB and shared how God can work through the valley. Find out more here.
https://bit.ly/2KCSQPR

More Photos from Portstewart
These were taken on Monday
0 Comments

Tuesday 28th April 2020

28/4/2020

0 Comments

 
Tides
Today we continue on the Road to Emmaus and reach the village with Jesus and the disciples. Suddenly the disciples realise who Jesus is. Tommy Bruce likens this to suddenly realising that Jesus is at work in our lives when we thought he was far away or silent. He suggests that we should respond in the following way .
Think of a time when you have been aware of God’s presence, him answering your prayers, even the silent prayer of your heart. How have you been encouraged by this? Have you told others to encourage them? As we go through present difficult circumstances, take time this week to encourage someone by telling them what God is doing in your life.
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Lockdown Testimony 
Yesterday I mentioned how some people have written a testimony about Lockdown based on two questions.
  • What have you lost?
  • What have you gained?
Julie has started the ball rolling, so why not take a few minutes today to compile your own list and then send it in to share with others. You can give one answer to each question or as many as you want.
burnsidechurch@gmail.com
​Lockdown 2020!!  - Julie Craig
What I have gained

Half a stone!!

Children who cook!

Being a better neighbour

Enjoying more church services than just my own all in one day!

A happy dog -walks every day and never left alone!

Appreciation of technology – after recording an opening prayer for our online service, I realise how much effort Richard puts in to creating Burnside at home!

A new place to go at 8pm on Thursdays – front door NHS clap!

Time to …..
• Talk
• Listen
• Think
• Laugh
• Pray
• Read – Tides daily devotions, Burnside daily blog articles and my Bible
​What I have lost

Stress!!

Being late for church!

My holiday to Tenerife!

Being able to call in and hug my Mum and Dad

GB Display and prize giving

Work – Teaching kids at school and meeting up with my colleagues.

My hair appointments!!

Minutes Silence 
There will be a minutes silence today at 11:00am to commemorate key workers who have died from Covid-19. 

The Humble Wellie Boot
In the latest PCI blog, Rev Ian Harbinson reflects on the humble wellie boot with the old saying, ‘never judge a man till you’ve walked a mile in his boots’. Ian writes that Jesus walked many a mile in our boots, walking all the way to the cross
https://bit.ly/2VEuqMc

Mitch - Testimony
Many of you will remember Mitch from Crown Jesus Ministries when they were with us in the Triangle Area. This is a video of Mitch sharing his testimony.
UCB - Christian Radio
Remember that you can find positive help through listening to Christian Radio. You can listen on your TV or online
https://www.ucb.co.uk/godsword

The Church In China
If we are re-evaluating our relationship with China, concerns about religious freedom should be front and centre.
https://bit.ly/3eZjSPm

Walking In Hope
Is there a way we can capture a sense of hope in the middle of the situation our world is facing? Click here to read thoughts by UCB's CEO, David L'Herroux 
https://davidlherroux.com/2020/04/01/how-to-walk-in-hope/

Portstewart
We went a different direction on Sunday for our walk so managed to capture a few different sights.
0 Comments

Monday 27th April 2020

27/4/2020

2 Comments

 
Tides
Today in Tides, we are on the road to Emmaus with Jesus and the disciples in Luke 24:15-18, the passage we considered last week in Burnside At Home.
Tommy Bruce asks -
I wonder is the Lord opening our eyes to the work he is doing in us, and in our communities? Is it time to reflect and rest in the Lord? To be followers who walk with Jesus not just doing things for him.
Testimony 
I noticed during the weekend, that someone had written a testimony about Lockdown based on two questions.
What have you lost?
What have you gained?
I thought this might be a good way to share with others your experience of Lockdown. So why not answer the two questions in an email and I will share them with others. If you want to remain anonymous please state it in the email. You can give one answer to each questions or as many as you want.
burnsidechurch@gmail.com

Moderator’s Online Service
As well as our own service - you can also worship using the service prepared by the Moderator each week. Some people had trouble with the link in the email at the weekend, so I have included a shorter link which should work.
https://bit.ly/2yIJYpt
Scripture Union
The following statement was released by Scrioture Union at the end of last week.
Over the last while we have been praying about this year’s Camps & Missions could look due to COVID-19. it is with a heavy heart that the SUNI Council have made the difficult decision to cancel all Camps and Missions this Summer. For the full statement click the link below.
I spoke to Jonny Booth (leader of Portstewart CSSM) and he has asked for our prayers for the 2021 CSSM
https://suni.co.uk/camps-missions-2020-update-2/


Evangelical Alliance
A Webinar is as the name suggests a web based seminar, and there are many taking place at the moment. Evangelical Alliance have just released details of their next one. Our next webinar 'Witness in a pandemic' will be hosted by our Church & Missions Coordinator Donna Jennings on Tuesday 28th April at 11 AM with Mitch (Crown Jesus), Jonny Campbell & Trevor Ramsey. At 11 AM, click the link below to tune in:
👉 https://t.co/SxIONny25m


Local Government
Government Ministers met with church leaders at the end of last week to discuss the impact of Covid-19 in our community. They spoke about the need to protect and support people across society during these difficult times. Here is a screen shot of the Zoom meeting with all who took part. ​
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Cemeteries Reopening
You will probably be aware that cemeteries have been reopened and the church leaders were involved in lobbying the local executive. It may have seemed unreasonable to most of us that cemeteries were closed, but an article in the Belfast Telegraph this morning would suggest that rules regarding social distancing at funerals are being broken.
Read the article here https://bit.ly/3eTOjXc
Or the main points of the articles are at the end of this blog post. 


Global Mission During The Pandemic
PCI has 27 global mission workers serving in 11 countries worldwide. In this article, 'Global mission in a global pandemic', find out from them their situation and how #COVID19 has affected the country they serve in:
https://bit.ly/3bSOEYB


All In The April Evening
For the last few days I have been trying to include a Song video each day and one of our readers who thinking about the lambs leaping in the fields at the moment suggested “All In The April Evening”. As the days of April are quickly running out, I thought I would include it today. It is not a song that I am very familiar with but here is Aled Jones singing and considering the Lamb of God.
Photos From Saturday
Most days when I include photos the sky is blue and the sun is shining, however on Saturday while the rest of the province basked in beautiful sunshine, Portstewart was rather overcast and had a thick sea mist in the morning. Portstewart is still beautiful though.
Extracts From Belfast Telegraph about Funerals
Full Article Here  https://bit.ly/3eTOjXc
Coronavirus: Crowds of over 60 people are gathering in homes for wakes, claims 'terrified' NI undertaker

Grieving families are flouting coronavirus rules by holding wakes in their homes that are being attended by crowds of people, a whistleblower has said.

An undertaker in Northern Ireland has spoken out to reveal groups of more than 60 people are gathering together in homes for wakes and funerals despite clear guidance banning this during the coronavirus pandemic.
And he said he is aware of cases where people have attended funerals even though they have been in contact with relatives caring for a person who has died from Covid-19.
"I'm terrified for myself, I'm terrified for my family," he said.
"If you saw the face of a person who has died from Covid-19, you would know it wasn't a pleasant death.
"You would see they'd gone through a hard time and you'd know how important it is to do everything to stop the spread of the virus."
The claims have been branded "deeply shocking and disturbing" by Health Minister Robin Swann.
“I come home from work and strip down at the front door and get straight in the shower but I'm so worried ”Whistleblower
The whistleblower said: "Funeral directors are coming under so much pressure from families who are demanding that they want a wake for their loved one.
"We try to advise them of the dangers but they don't care, they want a wake and they won't take no for an answer.
"I've been in houses where there are more than 60 people inside and we're brushing up past people when we're bringing the body home.
"Even when you have families who aren't letting lots of people in the house at once, you have 50 or 60 people standing together outside, chatting, smoking, shaking hands and hugging.
"I've seen 60 people walking shoulder to shoulder behind a hearse.
"I come home from work and strip down at the front door and get straight in the shower but I'm so worried.
"I'm not sleeping at night because I'm so worried about what we're going to face the next day."
The undertaker said he is also concerned that the reopening of cemeteries may lead to even larger crowds of people attending funerals.

Dr Tom Black said crowds attending wakes and funerals could result in a fatal surge of cases unless the public adheres to social distancing measures.
"You only need to look at what happened in the Basque country where 60 people became infected with Covid-19 after a funeral and it spread through the community and created a hotspot," he told the Belfast Telegraph.
"We need to be very careful, one person at a funeral can infect 60 people who can infect thousands, it will spread like wildfire.
"If social isolation breaks down, it will be much worse than the first wave has been, so we need to be very careful."
Dr Black, chair of the British Medical Association's Northern Ireland Council, continued: "This is not scaremongering.
"There's definitely the view among the public that we have passed the worst of this, but this is just the end of the beginning.
"We need to avoid complacency and make sure we don't have any outbreaks or all of our efforts so far will be for nothing."
“You might think you're too young or too healthy to be struck down by the virus. You're wrong ”Robin Swann
According to government guidance, wakes should not be held, funeral services should not take place in family homes and no remains should be taken home to rest.
The funeral should be private, with a maximum of 10 mourners present and social distancing must be practised at all times, including travel to and from the funeral.
The guidance specifically states that there should be no mixing between mourners who are self-isolating and those who are not.
While funeral notices can still be placed in newspapers or using online services, funeral arrangements should not be advertised, it states.
Despite this, an increasing number of death notices include specific details about the funeral arrangements.
Mr Swann said: "These allegations are deeply shocking and disturbing.
"They graphically underline the dangers of complacency in the fightback against Covid-19.
"Let me set it out as bluntly as I can.
"If you flout the restrictions, you are putting yourself and your family and friends at risk."
He continued: "You might think you're too young or too healthy to be struck down by the virus. You're wrong.
"And even if you turn out to be one of the lucky ones and only have mild symptoms, you could pass it on to someone else with devastating consequences.
"The social distancing measures remain in place for very good reasons."
Belfast Telegraph
2 Comments

Friday 24th April 2020

23/4/2020

0 Comments

 
Tides
In the reading from John 21:18-25 today, Peter is restored into relationship with Jesus, but as Jesus calls him to “Follow Me” Jesus warns Peter about the type of death he will suffer because of his faith.

​Stephen Johnston reminds us

All of us, ... are called to carry the cross. We are each called to a daily dying to ourselves and a living for the Lord. So, as we face heightened uncertainties of life at present, whatever number of days or years we have left on this earth, let us commit to following him with self-denial and humble zeal.
Stephen then encourages us to listen to a song that we have quickly grown to love in Burnside, “Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me!” 
Drawing attention to 
verse 4
‘With every breath, I long to follow Jesus.’


A number of short articles & videos for you today.
The Presbyterian Church “Supportive” Of Opening Burial Grounds
The Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) has said that for pastoral reasons, it would be supportive of enabling loved ones to have appropriate access to burial grounds. Speaking on behalf of PCI in a statement in response to media inquiries, Rev Trevor Gribben, Clerk of the General Assembly and General Secretary of the denomination said that "if a way forward on this particular issue can be found, it would be of immeasurable comfort to those who mourn and feel the loss of their loved one so deeply."

Rev Trevor Gribben said, “For pastoral reasons, we would be supportive of enabling loved ones to have appropriate access to burial grounds in a way that, with suitable social distancing, both safeguarded them and those who worked there.
“The loss of a loved one, even in normal circumstances, is heart breaking. Along with others, we recognise that visiting a grave can be an important part of the grieving process, especially for relatives who could not attend the funeral, or be with their loved ones when they passed away.
“While we recognise that the restrictions that we all have to abide by during these days are for the good of the whole community, if a way forward on this particular issue can be found, it would be of immeasurable comfort to those who mourn and feel the loss of their loved one so deeply


COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories Putting Christian Minorities At Risk
In various parts of the world where Christians are often persecuted they are now being blamed for the Coronavirus. This short article will make us aware of the suffering of our brothers and sisters.
https://www.eauk.org/news-and-views/covid-19-conspiracy-theories-putting-christian-minorities-at-risk?utm_source=twitter

Looking after our Health And Welbeing
Evangelical Alliance asked Debbie Duncan to share some tips for looking after our health and wellbeing in these challenging times. @dduncan42  is an advanced nurse practitioner and lecturer in nursing, a church leader & minister's wife. This is a short video from Debbie.
https://www.reimaginingfaith.com/blog/caring-for-our-whole-selves/2020/4

Culture Shock and Covid-19
This article by David Williams gives an honest insight & practical advice about Culture Shock and Covid-19. It's well worth a read.
https://au.thegospelcoalition.org/article/culture-shock-and-covid-19-2/?amp&__twitter_impression=true


More Home Deliveries
Born & Raised Waffles will deliver waffles to Portstewart. (Who knew you needed waffles delivered) Tel. 078251041086
​Or website http://bornandraisedwaffles.com


Crusoes Coffee Shop, Castlerock will also deliver -
https://www.crusoescoffeeshop.com/?fbclid=IwAR04XKi0WU1FMd5Vj0BgLxuGgYUUk_W25_ZBgZ0DoxCX5e1CsWfAohb6H50
Sunsets

There have been some beautiful sunsets this week. On Sunday evening just as we should have been entering the church building for our evening service it was bathed in the light of the setting sun.
Sunrise

There have also been some beautiful sunrises this week, this was this morning. Thanks once again to Deirdre.
And Finally ...

Ulster Rugby have provided this Jacob Stockdale chart to help you describe your mood each day during Lockdown.
Somedays I’m a 5 but I have also ended up as a 7. What number are you today?
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0 Comments

Thursday 23rd April 2020

22/4/2020

0 Comments

 
Tides
Today we return to John 21:15-17.
After Jesus restores Peter he gives him the command to “Feed my sheep.”
​

As Stephen Johnston writes -
How wonderful! Failure does not have to be the final chapter. As we confess, the Lord renews and sends us out into a new chapter of service.

Even during continuing restrictions about meeting due to the pandemic, at a time when church life is predominantly ‘virtual’, there are still ways that we can support and encourage other members of the flock of God.

What can you do today to encourage the flock of God?
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Everlasting God - Chris Tomlin

This beautiful song reminds us that strength will rise when we wait upon the Lord.
Short Video Answer (Less than 5 minutes)
If God Exists, why is there suffering?
Getting The Best From The Bible
6 Weeks of Daily readings to help you get the best from the bible with Selwyn Hughes. You may remember Selwyn from the Everyday with Jesus bible reading notes.
https://connectedalways.cwr.org.uk/download/844/

​
Other Short Guides from Everyday With Jesus
Keeping Your Spiritual Balance
https://connectedalways.cwr.org.uk/download/844/
Exploring The Bible
https://connectedalways.cwr.org.uk/download/818/
Spiritual Health Check
https://connectedalways.cwr.org.uk/download/811/
Staying Connected To God
A series of short videos 
https://connectedalways.cwr.org.uk/videos-of-encouragement/
Reimagining Faith Webinars
This pandemic has raised fundamental questions about church and culture. We are in a period of intense change that will inevitably lead to longer term shifts in both.
What does it mean to BE Church in the change now, and what can we recover, retain and reimagine about how to be and do Church in the future?
Peter Lynas from Evangelical Alliance is hosting a series of conversations looking at what we might be able to learn so far and how we might reimagine the future. Some important conversations include:
  • The importance of the scattered church, when we cannot gather in normal ways.
  • Creating meaningful connections through Church, in and beyond a digital forum. 
  • The unique role of Church in the Public Square as we serve the most vulnerable alongside social infrastructures.
  • How do we share our faith and point to Jesus in this strange moment, and beyond?
You can watch the first conversation here and more are to follow.
https://www.reimaginingfaith.com/blog/reimagining-faith-webinars/2020/4
​

These Three Remains - Podcast
The Podcast for this week is now available - Discipleship At a
A Distance – It is hosted by Rick Hill @RickHillNI and he is joined by @michaelswylie (@ChurchCarnmoney), Mark Johnston (St Andrews, Bangor) and Marty Gray (Ravenhill). Michael Wylie who is now discipleship assistant in Carnmoney PCI came to Burnside one night as a student while he was at Ulster University Coleraine and rededicated his life to Jesus. Sometimes we do not realise what God is doing in someone’s life at what we might consider is an unremarkable evening service.
https://audioboom.com/posts/7562308-004-discipleship-at-a-distance
Open Doors
Each year Open Doors produces the World Watch List. A list of the most dangerous countries in the world to be a Christian. You can find out more details here.
https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/resources/tell-your-church/
And Here - 
https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/

Portstewart
Some more photos from yesterday.
0 Comments

Wednesday 22nd April 2020

22/4/2020

0 Comments

 
Tides
The reading today in Tides is the stunning post-resurrection encounter between Jesus and Simon Peter. (John 21v15-17) After denying Jesus three times, Jesus now gives Peter the opportunity to declare his love three times. There is forgiveness waiting on us all no matter what we have done.

Stephen Johnston writes -
Perhaps as we reflect on the preciousness of life in light of the devastating effects of the Coronavirus, our many failings come into view and our hearts are heavy. We all sin and mess up. We all know times of real failure, guilt and shame. We need to honestly face these things, truly repent of our sin and know God’s fresh forgiveness.
​

Then Stephen uses the words of the song “He touched Me” to illustrate the change in Peter’s life. 

“Shackled by a heavy burden,
'Neath a load of guilt and shame.
Then the hand of Jesus touched me,
And now I am no longer the same.

He touched me, Oh he touched me,
And oh the joy that floods my soul!
Something happened and now I know,
He touched me and made me whole.”


Some of you may know that my 2nd favourite singer is Elvis Presley, so enjoy this rendition of “He touched Me”.
Blood Donation Session
On Monday the Blood Transfusion Service held a blood donation session in Burnside Church Halls. Because of the Coronavirus restrictions donation was by appointment only, and all donation slots had been booked by the beginning of the day. A huge thank you to everyone who donated blood and to the nurses and staff who organised the day.
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PW Conference 
PW held a Leadership forum in February of this year with Neil Harrison who spoke twice. Neil’s first talk entitled Sharing faith in relationships, focused on Luke 5: 27-32 and the story of Levi the tax collector. Neil shared how Levi’s encounter with Jesus changed him and excited him to celebrate his new faith with others in his community and he encourages us to do the same by cultivating habits that might help us build relationships with unreached friends in our lives.
You can listen to the first talk here - 
https://audioboom.com/posts/7508880-pw-leadership-forum-2020-part-1
And the second talk here - 
https://audioboom.com/posts/7508881-pw-leadership-forum-2020-part-2?playlist_direction=forward


UCB
A study in the book of Revelation. I haven’t listened to this one myself yet, but if you are interested in the book of Revelation you can join Phil and David in this episode of "The Bible in 30 Minutes" as they explore the prophecies in Revelation. Click here to listen:
https://player.lightcast.com/yUDOyUTO


Bear Grylls
Adventurer Bear Grylls attends Holy Trinity Brompton church and in this video he shares a thoughtful reflection on how he begins each day.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJmAMlU-wNU&t=34s


Home Deliveries
After stopping Home deliveries a few weeks ago, it is now possible to get Maine Minerals delivered to your home again. www.mainesoftdrinks.co.uk


Walking
Thanks to Ernie Rocks who has shared this guide to walking 1000 miles in a year. We are all being encouraged to take our daily exercise and a 1000 miles is only about 2.4miles every day. There are lots of resources at the link, including a map to colour in for every 10 miles you complete.
https://www.walk1000miles.co.uk/welcome


Fire In Ballycastle
Some of you may have smelt and seen the smoke from the gorse fire in Ballycastle yesterday evening. Here are a few photos of the smoke in the sky over Portstewart. Do remember the Firefighters who had to deal with the fire.
Portstewart
Many of you have said that you enjoy seeing the photographs of Portstewart so I try to take a few photos each day on my walk. Unfortunately I tend to walk along a very similar path each day so they may become a bit repetitive, but I hope you enjoy these ones from yesterday.
0 Comments

Tuesday 21st April 2020

21/4/2020

1 Comment

 
Tides
Today tides is taken from JOHN 21:7-14
The disciples catch 153 fish after being told by the risen Jesus where to fish. They then eat with Jesus on the beach.
Do read all of the Tides devotional but here are just a couple of highlights.

Stephen Johnston writes -
Left to our own devices, of which we can have many, we do not catch many fish. This passage calls us as individuals and churches to die to self-reliance. Our abilities, whatever they might be, will not see people saved and brought into the Kingdom. We desperately need the touch of the Lord.
Cry to God for genuine Holy Spirit inspired renewal and revival. 
D.A. Carson writes - 
“What is the most urgent need in the church of the Western world today?... The one thing we most urgently need in Western Christendom is a deeper knowledge of God. We need to know God better… One of the foundational steps in knowing God, and one of the basic demonstrations that we do know God, is prayer.” (D.A. Carson “A Call to Spiritual Reformation”)

Remember that the best place to fish in Portsewart Bay is to line up your position in a boat with the cross on top of Dominican College and the Praying hands of Burnside Tower. When our prayers are lined up with the cross then we will be in the right place to fish.
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4 Ways To Pray With Children 
Helping your kids talk openly with God now will also impact the way they view prayer in the years to come. So, here are 4 easy prayer activities to help your family pursue God through prayer.
https://blog.youversion.com/2020/04/4-fun-activities-to-try-with-your-kids/


Perspective
This is an interesting perspective on the current crisis on Twitter from @ChristyWimber
“Let’s stop saying, ‘we’re all in the same boat.’ We’re in the same storm but not the same boat. Some live with the inconvenience of missing friends & staying home while others are in great crisis & feel ship wrecked emotionally & financially. This storm is not the same for everyone.”


Moderator Expresses Appreciation for Frontline Workers
The Moderator and all the Irish church leaders have released a statement expressing their thanks to this on the frontline.
https://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/April-2020/Church-Leaders-thank-you-to-those-on-frontline.aspx 


Support For Those Working On The Frontline
Following a meeting by video conference on Friday 17th April, the leaders of Ireland’s main Churches have expressed their deep appreciation and thanks for those working on the frontline during the current Coronavirus pandemic, commending them for “their work, courage and compassion.” The Moderator, along with the leaders of the other main Churches, is issuing a call to all of us in Northern Ireland, as follows:
On Thursday evenings ‪at 8pm‬, across the UK, we continue to show our appreciation for those who work in our health service, and for all who care for the community in various ways, by sharing in a round of applause.  May we encourage you, when you go back into your homes ‪on Thursday evenings‬, to join with us in offering a prayer of thanksgiving to God for all those whom we have acknowledged in our round of applause. Pray that they may know God’s strength and courage, safety, and blessing in their work. Pray too for those for whom they are caring - the sick, vulnerable, dying and all in distress.


Access To Cemeteries 
The leaders of the main Churches (which includes the Moderator Rt. Rev. William Henry) have been in correspondence with the Northern Ireland Executive regarding the fact that recent regulations have meant the individuals are unable to visit the grave of a loved one, as all Councils have closed their burial grounds to the public, apart from the small numbers (up to 10) permitted to attend an actual funeral. It has been pointed out that in a situation where a next of kin has not been able to be present at the time of death, nor perhaps even been able to attend the funeral, then being able to visit the grave, at a later date, could be very important in the grieving process. However, at this stage the NI Executive have not felt that it is wise to relax these restrictions. They have however given a commitment to keep this under review.


“VE Day” - ‪FRIDAY 8th MAY 2020‬ & SERVICES ‪ON SUNDAY 10th MAY‬
The year 2020 marks the 75th Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. ‪Friday 8th May‬ has been designated a Bank Holiday in the UK and special events were to have taken place on that day with special Services being held ‪on Sunday 10th May.‬ Obviously most of these plans have been radically changed in light of the restrictions linked to the current pandemic. ‘Let’s Pray’ will have some specific prayer points on those dates and a few other simple resources are planned to be made available on the PCI website. The Church Leaders will be issuing a joint statement in advance and the Moderator will be making particular reference in his ‘on-line’ Service ‪on Sunday 10th May.‬


Scams
Churches throughout Northern Ireland are asking elderly and vulnerable members of their congregations not to be duped by individuals offering to do their shopping with cash or deliver their church envelopes to clerics.
A post on the Parish of Antrim Facebok page says: “We have become aware of attempted scams in other Parishes in relation to the Parish envelopes, where Individuals have been offering to collect the envelopes and bring them to the Parish Office.
“We would like to make very clear - Parish of Antrim envelopes are NOT being collected by anyone at this time.
“Please share this out across the Parish”.
Help From Burnside
If you need any shopping then we will arrange for someone to collect and deliver the items you need, but we will not send a stranger to your door without you first asking


30 Minute Bible Study 
Ever wonder how the early church spread the message of the gospel? In this episode of "The Bible in 30 Minutes," Phil and David look at the book of Acts and discuss how the Apostles partnered with God to grow the early church. Click below to listen:
https://player.lightcast.com/yUjN3ITM


Free Audio Book
Christian Audio is a website where you can purchase Christian Audio books which can be listened to on your phone, tablet or computer. Each month they offer one free book, this month it is “Don’t Lose Heart” by Jason Meyer.
https://christianaudio.com/free


Care for NI
For resources about the Coronavirus crisis from a biblical perspective check out the Care For NI website. They say, “As we all adjust to the difficult and changing world around us, CARE is here to provide you with the key facts in these COVID-19 times.”
https://care.org.uk/cause/coronavirus-2020
​
April 2019
Just to illustrate the difference between this year and last year in Portstewart.
The photo with Dougal was taken on the 21st April 2019 & The 2nd Photo was taken on the 20th April 2020. The weather is a lot better this year, but the beach is very, very quiet.

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Songs of Praise
Do remember the songs that we have been learning in Burnside.
This is Cornerstone - My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less
1 Comment

Monday 20th April 2020

20/4/2020

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Good Morning, this must be week five of Lockdown (I know it isn’t quite a lockdown and some people are able to be out and about more than others, Lockdown seems to be one of the best shorthand ways of describing what is happening.) 

O To See The Dawn
​
Sunday Morning saw one of the most beautiful sunrises over the church building. Thanks to Deirdre who took the picture on her early morning run (it was much too early for me to see). Of course this has to cause us To sing, “O to See The Dawn”
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Thought For The Day - Wilma Devenney

Thank you to Wilma for this “Thought For The Day” - Wilma phoned me on Saturday and at the end of the conversation I asked her if she would write down Some of what we had been talking about. 

It is lovely seeing photographs of local scenes on Richard's blog. Recently there was a photo of the boats at the harbour, the one named Mizpah caught my attention. I recalled the use of this word in Genesis as part of a covenant made between Jacob and Laban. The Hebrew word means “watchtower”.  
​The verse is -
"May God keep watch between you and me when we are away from each other "
​Genesis ch 31 v 49.
​Thinking of the fishermen leaving their families and loved ones to spend time at sea fishing, i think it is a wonderful name to give a boat. The word Mizpah and this verse are special to me. I always wear a “Mizpah” ring which belonged to my grandmother who died when i was age 2 years. My mother had a “Mizpah” brooch which she inherited, the verse was written on it, she gave it to my sister.  I would have  liked it! My mother sensed that, and in due time bought me a “Mizpah” brooch from a local antique shop.
On considering this special verse I thought of all the Burnside church family separated from one another at this difficult time and prayed that God would watch over each one. We have a wonderful God who neither slumbers or sleeps Ps 121 v 4.
He who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
Psalms 121:4 (NIV)
He is on constant duty watching over us all at this time of lock down, but, God calls us to watch and pray. In the garden of Gethsemane Jesus, in his hour of need found his disciples sleeping and said,
"Could you not keep watch for one hour?"
​Matthew 26 v40
​Watch and Pray!
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How Are You Coping With Lockdown?

A couple of weeks ago I offered help to anyone who was struggling with lockdown. I received this photo with the message,

“Can you get me out of here ?”

Wilma - I did warn you, that I couldn’t resist the temptation to share it with everyone.


Moderator’s Online Service
In case you missed it, the Moderator provides an online service each week, here is the service for yesterday, Sunday 19th April 2020.
And here is the service for Easter Sunday
Living Alone In Lockdown
Rachel Cubitt, Deaconess in Whiteabbey Presbyterian Church reflects on what it’s like to experience lockdown while living alone and suggests some things that we can do to help others counter feelings of isolation. This is a fascinating and practical read.
https://www.presbyterianireland.org/Blog/April-2020/Living-alone-in-lockdown.aspx?fbclid=IwAR3QA8Yy75KJSVgdW8GKF8giBwwFevTdBhe0AYYbqqDRGN0_ItscUavAO4A

Human Trafficking
An interesting article on the Effect of COVID-19 on Human Trafficking
Five Impacts on Human Trafficking
https://www.techuk.org/insights/opinions/item/17329-guest-blog-the-effect-of-covid-19-five-impacts-on-human-trafficking

Finally Another Home Delivery
This time not food, but perhaps an essential if you are a knitter.
Folklore Yarns Belfast - posting to all of Northern Ireland. Stock up with yarns.
​Order on text 07968 290209.
Tides
The Tides devotional this week is from John 21. Today is the time that Jesus appeared to the disciples when they had gone out fishing, initially they caught nothing, but listening to Jesus the catch was huge.
Stephen Johnston comments -
The standout lesson is that without the Lord we can do nothing, but with the Lord, amazing things can happen. And more will be said about that tomorrow. But notice also that for Peter and the disciples there would be no satisfaction in their old calling. There is no going back. There is a plan and a purpose for each of us in Christ, for today and the days that lie ahead, whatever those days may bring.
There is no going back!
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Saturday 18th April 2020

18/4/2020

0 Comments

 
The update today contains some extracts from the weekly email that goes out to all Friends of Burnside who have registered to receive emails, so you may already have read most of this update via email. There are a few extra details in the email which are not put publically on the Website. If you would like to receive the email each week please send a message to burnsidechurch@gmail.com

New Circumstances
I hope that you are all surviving and coping with everything that comes along with the government restrictions. Obviously these are circumstances that none of us have faced before, there has never been a time when the church building has been closed for a prolonged period. I do remember one Sunday morning we moved into the Main Hall for our service, because the sanctuary was filled with petrol fumes, another Sunday evening we moved into the Minor Hall because the heat wasn’t working, and one Sunday about 10 years ago we closed both services because of the heavy snow. So to be closed for 5 Sundays, with the prospect of many more ahead is hard to come to terms with. For each of you to be constrained by the Lockdown regulations is even harder for you to come to terms with. Many of you are staying at home, and only receiving deliveries, some of you are going out to work each day as key workers and some of you have no jobs to go to at the moment with all of the worries and pressures that entails. Whatever the circumstances I want to assure you of my prayers, and although we cannot meet up, I am always at the end of the phone for a chat.

Offers Of Help
Several people in the congregation have offered to provide help. If you need groceries or prescriptions collected, grass cut or financial help or anything else, there are a number of people who are more than willing to help, just get in touch with me and I will tell try to get you the help you need.

Sunday Services
Although the building is closed it is important to remember that it is we who are the church, not the building. We may not be able to meet, but we can still worship. Each week members of the congregation and I lead us in worship through a service on the church Website - “Burnside At Home”. It should be reasonably familiar in format if you have ever been to a service in Burnside, and is designed to encourage and challenge us in these uncertain times. This week we look at the disciples who meet Jesus as they walked on the road to Emmaus, but didn’t recognise him until after he had disappeared. We are asking the question, “How Do We Recognise Jesus In A Crisis?”
Burnside At Home, so far can be found here - https://burnsidechurch.weebly.com/services.html
Burnside At Home for Sunday 19th April can be found here - 
https://burnsidechurch.weebly.com/sermons/burnside-at-home-sunday-19th-april-2020

Prayer
Each Wednesday morning a small group from Burnside used to meet to pray, we would pray for all those in the congregation who were sick and in need. Although no longer meeting together, we are still praying each Wednesday. If you have something that you would like us to pray about then please let me know rick.gregg@gmail.com Anything you share will be treated confidentially and will only be shared to that small group of people who pray.

Blood Donation Session
Although we may not be able to meet in our building, it is great that the Church Halls are going to be used on Monday of next week, by the Blood Transfusion Service. They are bringing all their own equipment and are responsible for disinfecting the hall before and after use. I know very few people are now in and out of the church building at the moment, but it would be wise to avoid Monday if you have any business being in the halls.
Blood donation will take place in Burnside on Monday 20th April, between 10am and 4.30pm & 5:15pm and 8:00pm, to book an appointment please call 08085 534 653 . There are still plenty of slots available, but blood can only be donated through an appointment.

Church Website
www.burnsidepci.co.uk 
The church Website is being redesigned at the moment to enable it to display better on Mobile phones, (Mobile or iPad seem to be the way that most people access) so hopefully even though it may no longer look familiar it will be easier to use. There are now large icons and buttons on the home page which will take you to the online services and the Week Day Blog. This Blog appears most week day mornings under “Latest Update” with a range of encouraging messages and resources to help you through the Coronavirus Lockdown. Do check it out and if you haven’t already, there are lots of articles in the archive.
https://burnsidechurch.weebly.com/latest-update

Thank You
As I said last week, thank you to everyone who continues to send FWO and Building Fund envelopes to Jeremy. I cannot tell you how much we appreciate this, with no church services, income has drastically reduced and yet bills still need to be paid. Thank you for your generosity. If you haven’t already but would like to contribute to church funds, please email me burnsidechurch@gmail.com and I will send you details of the options available.
Please also be aware that a scam has been reported elsewhere in the province, whereby people are arriving at doors claiming to be from churches and offer to collect FWO envelopes. We will not send anyone to your door to collect money unless you have specifically arranged for that to happen, and even then it would be someone that you know.

Word For Today
The Latest edition of Word For Today is now available and starts at the beginning of May. With not being able to pick them up at Burnside there are a coupe of options. Firstly the Word For Today is available online, https://www.ucb.co.uk/word-for-today or if you would like a printed copy, please email me burnsidechurch@gmail.com and we will get your copy to you.

Finally For Fun
Finally, for a bit of fun, if you would like that authentic “Burnside At Home” experience why not rearrange your living room furniture. (Sorry about the quality of the photo but I am sure you can see what to do)
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