Welcome to St.Nick’s for Sunday 7th and 14th June 2026
 Dear Friends, In the Gospel of Matthew, a main message is that Jesus came to find and save the “lost sheep of Israel,” meaning the Jewish people. At first, he focuses on them, but later he also reaches out to non-Jews (Gentiles), which causes trouble. Even when he is only helping his own people, some still criticise him. Jesus cares about everyone, and no one is beyond hope.In today’s reading, Jesus is in his hometown. He calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow him. Tax collectors were not liked, but they often had money and power. By choosing Matthew, Jesus shows he cares about both the poor and those who are seen as important. This makes us think about who is included and who is left out. At that time, people were divided into groups. The Romans were in power and looked down on the Jews. Among the Jews themselves, there were levels of importance—some people were respected, while others were rejected. Jews often looked down on non-Jews too. Jesus challenges this thinking. He shows that no one should be labeled as “in” or “out,” even among his followers. Most of his first disciples were fishermen, so choosing Matthew was surprising. Matthew would not have expected Jesus to pick him. When Jesus called Matthew, it caused an argument. Religious leaders were upset that Jesus spent time with people they thought were sinners. Jesus replied, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” He meant that he came to help those who needed it most. This story invites us to think about our own lives. Have we let Jesus come into our lives and change us as we grow in faith? Matthew’s story shows how people can be changed by God’s love. It reminds us to be happy for those who were once lost but are now found. It also challenges us to share this hope with others, especially those who feel beyond saving. Alison Mills ALM and Churchwarden  Sunday 7th June We look forward to welcoming back Rev Mark Hewerdine to preside and preach at our All Age Worship Service. Christian Fields our MD and Organist will accompany the hymns and chants. Members of St.Nick’s team will deliver readings, prayers and refreshments.  Sunday 14th June Our service will begin with Cafe Church and refreshments. A service of the word will be delivered by our worship team. Elizabeth Bray our Assistant Organist will accompany the hymns, with readings and prayers from the St. Nick’s team. Refreshments will be available before and after the service.  LIVE BROADCAST Our Sunday service will be broadcast live via our website www.st-nicholas-church.org.uk, to watch previous services please visit St. Nicholas Burnage You Tube. Wednesday midweek Holy Communion 10.30 am We hold our usual Wednesday Holy Communion at 10.30am.This service will continue weekly with Rev Mark Hewerdine. #Everyonewelcome #Refreshments A prayer for Sunday 7th June God of truth, help us to keep your law of love and to walk in ways of wisdom, that we may find true life in Jesus Christ your Son.Amen. A prayer for Sunday 14th June Faithful Creator, whose mercy never fails: deepen our faithfulness to you and to your living Word, Jesus Christ our Lord.Amen |
