East Croydon URC

Finding God

On Sunday, September 22nd, 2024, Jon Dean led our service with the theme "Finding God." His message spoke about the journey of seeking God in today’s world and was divided into two insightful talks: “Which Church?” and “Which Faith?” Drawing from scripture and personal experience, Jon Dean reflected on our challenges and questions when searching for God and understanding our faith.

The first reading, Corinthians 1:10-18, set the foundation for Jon’s first talk, “Which Church?” He shared his personal story of visiting various churches with his family and spoke about the diversity of worship across different denominations. Jon mentioned the "hospital church" as an example, a space where people of all faiths gather, each bringing a unique way of connecting with God. He emphasised that the issue of denomination—whether Presbyterian, Baptist, Methodist or any other—is not the central problem. What truly matters is that we seek the same God regardless of how we choose to worship. He reminded us that there are countless ways to worship, but the heart of the matter is the desire to find God.

The second reading, John 14:1-11, introduced Jon’s second talk, “Which Faith?” In this passage, Jesus reassures His disciples that He is the way to God, a bridge that leads us to the Father. Jon explained how Jesus came to live among us, showing us the path to salvation, which is not something we can earn through rules or works but a gift of grace. He contrasted this with other faiths, such as Islam and Hinduism, where salvation is often tied to specific practices or rules. For Christians, however, salvation is not about what we do but about receiving the grace of Jesus Christ.

Jon then opened the floor, asking the congregation for their thoughts on what different faiths have in common. He highlighted that while there are differences, many faiths share core principles, such as valuing human life, the ability to discern right from wrong, and the understanding that our time on earth is limited. To illustrate how some faiths view Christianity, Jon referenced the well-known quote from Gandhi: "I like your Christ; I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." This powerful quote reminded us to reflect on how we live out our faith and represent Christ in the world.

Jon concluded by addressing the growing disinterest in Christianity among the younger generation, pointing to statistics from the most recent UK census that revealed a significant percentage of people no longer identify with Christianity. This raises important questions about how we, as a church, can engage with younger generations and inspire them to find God in a meaningful and relevant way.

Jon’s message challenged us to think deeply about our faith journey, how we seek God, and how we represent our faith to the world. In a time when many are searching for meaning, his words encouraged us to remember that finding God is not about denominations or strict religious practices but about embracing the grace and love of Jesus Christ and living out that faith in a way that reflects His teachings.



By Victor Kisseih

Covenant Blessings: Walking in the Fulfilment of God’s Promises.

On Sunday, 15th September 2024, our service was led by Patrick Afful, with a message titled “Covenant Blessings: Walking in the Fulfilment of God’s Promises.” His sermon explored the significance of covenant blessings, showing how they are deeply tied to our relationship with God. The chosen readings were from Genesis 17:1-9, Deuteronomy 28:1-14, and Hebrews 8:6-13, each highlighting the divine promises that shape our faith.

Patrick began by explaining covenant blessings. He described them as unbreakable agreements between God and His people, backed by a divine promise that reflects God’s very nature. The power of a covenant lies because it is initiated by God Himself, whose faithfulness guarantees its fulfilment. Patrick emphasised how these promises when embraced, can transform our lives in ways we can scarcely imagine.

He engaged the congregation by asking us to name various covenants found in the Bible. Drawing from the first reading in Genesis 17, Patrick spoke about God's covenant with Abraham, which extended far beyond Abraham, reaching all his descendants. This covenant, one of blessing, multiplication, and inheritance, is one we continue to benefit from today as part of Abraham’s spiritual lineage.

He also spoke about God’s covenant with David, which promised that David’s throne would be established forever. This everlasting promise pointed directly to Jesus Christ, who sits on the eternal throne and fulfils the covenant fully.

Patrick then turned to the new covenant introduced in the reading from Hebrews, which is based on grace rather than the law. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, this covenant extends God’s grace to all who believe, offering forgiveness and transformation. Unlike the old covenants, which were based on strict obedience to the law, the new covenant calls us to faith. This faith requires daily surrender, trusting God in every situation, and walking in obedience.

In closing, Patrick reminded us that although God’s promises are steadfast and sure, we have a part to play in this covenant relationship. Our role is to walk in faith, allowing God’s promises to guide our lives and transform us as we trust Him. He encouraged us to continually align ourselves with God’s word, remain obedient, and embrace the fulfilment of these promises as we walk in covenant with Him.

Patrick’s message called us to reflect deeply on the covenant blessings available to us through Christ and to ensure that God’s promises will always be fulfilled confidently.



By

Victor Kisseih

How do you know? Reflecting on First Impressions and Judgement

On September 8, 2024, John Ponsford delivered the talk entitled "How Do You Know?" His powerful message challenged us to reflect on how we form opinions about people, mainly based on their outward appearance.

John shared a story about a man who arrived at a party looking shabby and smelling unpleasant. Instantly, he was shunned—nobody offered him food or engaged in conversation. Disheartened, the man left, only to return later dressed smartly. This time, he was welcomed warmly, and food was generously offered. In response, the man began putting food into his pockets, hinting that it wasn’t him who deserved kindness but the appearance of his fine suit.

The story reminded us of a fundamental truth: How often do we judge others based solely on what we see? How usually do we unconsciously form opinions about someone's character, worth, or intentions just from their appearance? John’s message was to look deeper and not let superficial judgments guide our interactions with others.

It is easy to fall into the trap of making snap judgments daily. However, as Christians, we are not just called but inspired to a higher standard. Jesus spent time with people from all walks of life—many of whom society looked down upon. He didn’t judge people by their outward appearance but saw into their hearts and showed love, compassion, and grace to all.

As our week progresses, let us take John’s message to heart. Let us be careful not to let our first impressions define how we treat others. Let us extend grace, love, and kindness to everyone we meet, regardless of how they look, what they wear, or where they come from.

How do we know the heart of someone? Only God can see into the depths of a person’s soul. Our role is to love others as Christ loves us—unconditionally and without prejudice.

May this message inspire us to reflect on our interactions and strive to see people through the eyes of compassion and humility, offering hope for a more loving and understanding community.



By
Victor Kisseih

Our service on Sunday, August 25th, 2024, was led by Apollus Fleischer-Djoleto. His sermon was titled ‘Where is God?’

"Where is God?" The reading was taken from Mark 4:35-41, a passage that recounts the story of Jesus calming the storm. Apollus posed a thought-provoking question to the congregation: Why do we face problems even when we believe in God?

He invited us to reflect on our reasons for being in church that day, much like the disciples in the boat with Jesus. Despite having the Son of God with them, they were filled with fear during the storm. Apollus challenged us to consider why they were so worried when they had Jesus right there and whether it is possible to believe in Jesus yet still experience difficulties in life.

He connected this moment to the previous week's sermon, reminding us how quickly we forget God’s past faithfulness. Just as Jesus had previously commanded fish to feed the multitudes, He had the power to calm the waters. The disciples’ fear in the storm was a moment of forgetfulness, a lapse in their trust in Jesus' power and presence.

Apollus highlighted that believing in Jesus does not exempt us from the storms of life. Instead, it means trusting that God is with us amid those storms. The same Jesus who provides for our needs is the one who calms our fears. Our faith may be tested, and we may face challenges, but we are called to remember that God is always present, powerful, and in control, even when life’s storms seem overwhelming.

This message encourages us to hold fast to our faith, knowing that God's presence is our assurance, even in the most turbulent times.

Our service today, 11th August 2024, was led by John Ponsford, and his topic was

Strange Bread

We often seek fulfilment in the tangible and visible—work, relationships, achievements, and material possessions. Yet, no matter how much we consume, a deeper hunger remains—a longing that cannot be satisfied by these earthly means. It’s a hunger that calls for a different kind of spiritual nourishment.

Jesus spoke of this when He declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35)

This Bread of life isn’t just physical sustenance; it’s spiritual nourishment that fills our souls with peace, purpose, and God’s love. When we partake in this bread, we are invited into a relationship with Jesus that satisfies our deepest needs and desires.

As we pray, ‘Dear Father, feed us with the Bread of Life,’ we are asking God to nourish our spirits, to fill the emptiness that the world cannot satisfy, and to lead us into a life that is not just filled, but abundant, meaningful, and overflowing with His grace.

Let us come to the table of God, open our hearts, and allow His love to feed our souls. In Him, we find the true bread that sustains us so that we no longer hunger.

God, We are in awe of You! The problems of this world around us can be frightening, but you are greater than our problems. We are so grateful we can count on you. Your will is perfect, and your plans are good. Your power is perfected in our weakness, and it is greater than any situation we face. Thank you for showing us your faithfulness every day. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Dear Community and Faith Leaders

At a time of heightened tension in our country and where certain groups and communities have become targets for attacks, we as leaders of Churches in Croydon want to send out a statement of peace, solidarity and support for all Croydon Communities. Not only are we praying for peace in our community, we also want to stand with you as good neighbours and friends.

We pray for the Police and all those who have a responsibility to keep the peace in our community. We deserve nothing but peace for our beloved Croydon.

May the Peace of God reign in our community.

The Convenors of Croydon Churches

TELL OUT MY SOUL
Timothy Dudley-Smith

1. Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord!
Unnumbered blessings, give my spirit voice;​​​
tender to me the promise of his word;
in God my Saviour shall my heart rejoice.

2. Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his name!
Make known his might, the deeds his arm has done;
his mercy sure, from age to age the same;
his holy name--the Lord, the Mighty One.

3. Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his might!
Powers and dominions lay their glory by;
proud hearts and stubborn wills are put to flight,
the hungry fed, the humble lifted high.

4. Tell out, my soul, the glories of his word!
Firm is his promise, and his mercy sure.
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord
to children's children and for evermore!

“The church is the people, not the building.” Happy Anniversary @ Addiscombe Grove 🎉🎉🎉

The Protective Love of Fathers
As we celebrate Father’s Day, let us reflect on the lengths fathers go to protect and provide for their families, inspired by Noah and Joseph.

Noah's Faithful Protection: Noah heeded God's warning of the flood and built an ark to safeguard his family. His dedication exemplifies how fathers protect their loved ones, ensuring their safety and future.

Joseph's Courageous Provision: Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, showed courage by taking Mary as his wife and protecting Jesus from Herod's wrath. His actions remind us of fathers' silent sacrifices to provide a secure and nurturing environment.

Reflecting on These Examples: Today, we honour fathers who, like Noah and Joseph, show steadfast love and protection. Their dedication profoundly shapes our lives through guiding hands, wise counsel, or daily acts of service.

Let us thank them for their commitment and pray for God's strength and blessings so they can continue reflecting His love and protection in their families.

Happy Father's Day to all our congregation's fathers and father figures. May God bless you abundantly!

God, I want to thank you and praise your name! All glory, honour, and power are yours! Could you help me present myself as someone who belongs to you and doesn't need to be ashamed? Let my whole life bring you glory in Jesus' name, amen. We wish you all a Blessed Weekend.

Today, we heard two interwoven stories from chapter 3 of Mark’s gospel. Jesus’ family fear he’s gone mad and try to put an end to his mission. Some religious investigators from Jerusalem find he’s working for Satan. Jesus warns the religious experts that they deny God’s work at their peril. He then declares that his family will only hear the good news of God’s kingdom. Are our ways the old traditional ways or the new ways of God's kingdom? Whose side are we on?

🌟 Happy Trinity Sunday! 🌟 Today, we celebrate the mystery of the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. May the unity and love within the Trinity inspire us to live in harmony and love with one another. "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." - 2 Corinthians 13:14 Blessings to you and your loved ones on this special day! 🙏✨

Today, we celebrate the Holy Spirit's miraculous descent and the Church's birth. May the same Spirit fill our hearts with love, unity, and the fire of faith.

Wishing you a blessed Ascension Day filled with peace, joy, and the assurance of Christ’s abiding presence.

“We are God’s handiwork” Andy Twilley 🙏🏽

Join us for an enlightening journey through scripture and deepen your understanding of God's word. #

“Father, I place into Your hands
The things I cannot do
Father, I place into Your hands
The times that I've been through
Father, I place into Your hands
The way that I should go
For I know I always can trust You”

Jenny Hewer

Proverbs 31:31: "Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate." Happy Mothering Sunday!🙏🏽❤️🥰

Happy New Year.
Our plea is for guidance and direction throughout life's journey, especially in times of difficulty or uncertainty, with the belief that there is a source of wisdom to show the way forward.