How can we hear afresh, and then pass on, an invitation from our risen Lord to come and eat?
Bishop Steven offers a way of framing and thinking about our calling as we begin to regather as a church and restore something like our normal common life.
The invitation to Come and Eat is taken from John 21. The risen Lord appears on the shore of the lake. The disciples have fished all night and caught nothing. The stranger on the shore invites them to cast the net on the right side of the boat. The net fills with fish. Simon Peter recognises Jesus, puts on his clothes (curiously) and jumps into the lake. There is already a charcoal fire burning on the shore, with fresh bread and fish cooked and ready to eat. When the disciples come to shore, tired after a long night fishing, Jesus says to them:
“Come and have breakfast. Come and eat.”
Then Jesus himself serves them: he takes the bread and gives it.
Read Bishop Steven's blog to find out more about the background to Come and Eat, or explore the resources below.
Podcasts
A short podcast series from Bishop Steven exploring the profound, wonderful meal at the heart of our faith. Listen online using the links below, or find the episodes wherever you get your podcasts. Just search 'Bishop Steven Croft'.
Liturgy
Bishop Steven has asked some of our very creative liturgists to draw together some resources and prayers for parishes to mark this season of regathering and rededication.
These resources invite churches to renew their thanksgiving to God for the ‘wonderful sacrament’ of Holy Communion. They comprise:
- passages of scripture accompanied by questions for reflection and a prayer, which could be used by individuals and households prior to attending a service of Holy Communion, or by the gathered community;
- personal prayers of preparation for receiving Holy Communion;
- the famous poem Love Bade Me Welcome, by George Herbert;
- links to further resources provided by the Church of England.