It is now only a short while before our “5th Sunday” special joint service on the 29th of September. We will gather as a whole Ministry are for a 10am service of Holy Communion in St Mary’s, Nolton. This will be an opportunity to worship together, to enjoy fellowship together, and its the perfect opportunity to invite someone to church.

For me, it all began with an invitation.

Just over twenty years ago, I was invited to a church event by a local Christian. From there I was invited to attend worship, to dinner, to a Bible study. I was invited to lead prayers, and in time to preach. I was invited to administer the chalice – and in time, I was invited to take Holy Orders, and serve this diocese as a priest. We never know where an invitation might lead – but if we fail to offer the invitation, we will never find out.

In the next few months we will be taking our responsibility to invite more seriously, as a Ministry Area we build ‘pathways’ – stepping stones – for those who do not yet know the Lord to become members of his body, the Church. Part of this will be Alpha, and I will be asking you to consider who you might invite and bring with you to Alpha evenings, where we will explore the basics of the Christian faith, and encourage people who are new to these things to take a step of faith.

Alpha will always begin with a simple supper at 7pm, followed by a video-led discussion. Alpha facilitates conversations about faith in a welcoming environment.  You can sign up now – but crucially, think about who you can invite, and begin to pray for them.