Congregationalism has a rich history of contributing to the liturgical life of the Church. In just the last 12 months we have seen many people share worship on themes surrounding the 50th Anniversary of the Congregational Federation. We will try to share these resources and more in these pages. 

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Shout praise for golden jubilee - This hymn - written by Elisabeth Sweeney - came about through a hymn writing workshop at the beginning of our 50th Anniversary Year. It's premiere took place at the National Assembly in Birmingham on Saturday 14th May 2022.

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Dear Lord, Creator, our praise arises - This hymn, set to the tune St Clement, is written by Gwyn Davies, currently Minister at Clarendon Park Congregational Church in Leicester. Gwyn says of this hymn:

"I was inspired to write the hymn whilst looking at the output of previous ministers and musicians at Clarendon Park, not least Jack Griffin. Although preferring specific topics for hymn lyrics I decided to write on a broad basis for my first attempt and chose the verse subjects of praise/life of Jesus/death of Jesus/transfiguration/praise, as a form; using the seven 'I am...' statements from the Gospel of John as the lyrics for the second verse."

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An Idea for Cafe Church: Ask, Seek, Knock - Market Harborough Congregational Church recently held a stimulating and interesting Cafe Church session led by their minister Rev Stephen Haward. Based on the story of the unexpected visitors in Luke 11:10-20 this could be a good resource to use in your church. Take a look. (PDF)

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Sermons/Services

We occasionally receive sermons/services to be published to help churches use for one of their services.

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A Service to celebrate the life of Isaac Watts - 2024 was the 350th Anniversary of the birth of Isaac Watts. This service was used by Southam & Bishop's Itchington Congregational Church as a Songs of Praise.

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Christopher Stirling writes:

Recently I attended the Congregational Federation Eastern Area Meeting and Yvonne Campbell asked for anyone to send Services in, hence you’ve got mine! 
I belong to West End Congregational Church in Haverhill and was appointed by the Church to lead a monthly service. During the Covid lockdowns - when we couldn’t meet in person - the service went out to all church members by email. Then talking to other Christian friends who couldn’t get to their church the Service was sent to them as well!
I must stress that I haven’t had any formal ministerial training, and you will note over a period of time that sometimes I don’t actually write the whole sermon or message. But I share them as a gift of love and devotion.

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Unless one is born of Water and the Spirit: John 3:5 - This Service has been prepared by: Christopher Stirling of West End Congregational Church, Haverhill, UK.

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What Advent means to us - This Service has been prepared by: Christopher Stirling of West End Congregational Church, Haverhill, UK.

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Lord, help me to dare to be different - This Service has been prepared by: Christopher Stirling of West End Congregational Church, Haverhill, UK.

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In November We Especially Remember - This Service has been prepared by: Christopher Stirling of West End Congregational Church, Haverhill, UK.

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