As you will be aware Marion and I have led quite a few pilgrimages during our time at Emmanuel and Elmers End.

We have visited Israel several times as well as Turkey taking in “The Seven Churches of Asia” featured in the Book of Revelation. Most recently we led a pilgrimage to Greece following in “The Steps of St Paul.” The Holy Land is a place almost everyone who has visited it feels drawn back to and Marion and I are no exception. Although I will be retired we are planning to lead another pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 2021, only this time with a difference.

Jordan is the often neglected part of the Holy Land but many times Jesus crossed over to the east side of the River Jordan (the present day country of Jordan was known as “Moab” in Biblical times, Ruth was born there). In fact, most scholars believe the site where John actually baptised Jesus was on the east side of the river. We shall visit Mount Nebo where Moses viewed the Promised Land. Undoubtedly the highlight of any visit to Jordan will be the magnificently preserved Nabatean city of Petra. This we shall definitely include on the itinerary.

Our plan is to add a few days in Jordan onto a visit to the traditional sites in Israel taking in both Jerusalem and Galilee. We are flagging up the possibility at this time to gauge what interest there may be for such a trip from members and friends at Emmanuel and Elmers End. If you feel this is something you would be interested in please let Marion or I know before my “exodus” at the end of May.

“Then Moses climbed Mount Nebo from the plains of Moab – there the Lord showed him the whole land.” (Deuteronomy 34:1)

Bill

As Ian comes to the end of his 28-year stint as organist and choirmaster, we are delighted he will be giving a lunchtime recital on Friday 16^th October at 12 noon. 

Under current coronavirus guidelines for performing arts, the practical issues like hygiene, seating and venue capacity are pretty much the same as for worship.  Therefore, seating arrangements will be much as for Sunday service, though we are planning to squeeze in a few more places for the recital.  But numbers are limited, so if you would like to come, please contact your Elder who has access to the booking sheet.