A day in Matlock

Today I was planned to lead worship at Matlock Methodist / URC Church. Margaret and I set out around 8:45 having loaded p the car with all my equipment, including the guitar and amplifier. We set out on a cloudy morning but as we approached Matlock, the clouds lifted leaving us with a beautiful sunny day. I set up the equipment with the help of the people at Matlock and everything worked fine. I was greeted by an excellent group of musicians and an organist. Together they led worship wonderfully. Mike, who played 12 string guitar was celebrating his birthday. He had the dubious pleasure of playing his guitar as we sang 'Happy Birthday To You'.

I really enjoyed the service and introduced them to some Celtic liturgy and songs. I was encouraged by Mavis, a circuit steward, who said how she enjoyed reading my evangelism bulletins. Also the couple who had attended the district 'Pray without ceasing' event which I organised a few years ago. All in all it was a really good morning.

The church has been tastefully refurbished with an excellent new entrance hall. The inscription over the entrance was 'Never underestimate the power of God'. So apt and telling for a church which clearly takes prayer seriously.

We dined in Matlock at the chippy on the high street. That saved my jet-setting wife having to prepare a Sunday lunch. On the way back home we stopped off at the Tansley Garden Centre for a cuppa. We were both quite whacked when we got home so relaxed before visiting Esther to lend her a car as her car has developed an electrical fault. I then reviewed the enormous workload I have before me this week. Several meetings are taking place in different parts of the district along with the launch of a new Alpha course in Beeston.