The symbol for today was 'The Whip' (to represent the whip used on Jesus by the soldiers) This was placed on the cross alongside the other symbols (30 pieces of silver and the robe) and Mark 15,verse 15 was read by Annie Aspinall.

We all joined in the singing of verse 5 of 'when I survey the wondrous cross' ,followed by a prayer. The children enjoyed waving flags for the next hymn, 'Give me joy in my heart' and in the opening prayers by Hilary we were asked to remember.

teaspoon: T was thank you, S was for sorry and P was for praise. In preparation for the talk on Pilate and the Baptism of Emily Claire.

Hilary used a bowl and asked the congregation what they had used water for today, with many answers.

Pilate had used the water to wash his hands of the responsibility of Jesus.

Emily's water was a symbol of God's family.

Emily's Baptism was very meaningful, she was carried around the Church by Hilary and given a lighted candle and a book. The family's chosen hymn was 'Shine Jesus Shine'.

The New Youth told us the story of Pontius Pilate with Congregation participation - well done! They also led us in the singing of 'This Is Amazing Grace' by Phil Wickham, a new hymn with actions.

Everyone was asked to join in the prayers by writing on a small teardrop what they would like to pray for, one small tear to a big wave.

The next hymn was 'The Servant King' which fitted well with what Hilary had said about Jesus washing the feet of the disciples.

Hilary's talk was 'Pilate on trial', Guilty or Not Guilty. Glen put the case for not guilty and made some good points. Hilary spoke for guilty and I am sure that most of the Congregation ended up in a dilemma with equally good arguments for both sides. At the end vote guilty won, but I am still on the fence.

The Service closed with the Hymn 'And Can It Be', followed by the Grace.

Kindly written by Eileen Hodgin