Once again we’re living through difficult and unsettling days as the Omicron variant spreads at speed. The Church of Scotland has been in discussion with the Scottish Government and new guidelines have been issued. We have been observing 1 metre distancing and that is now mandatory. It increases to 2 metres for those not wearing a mask – whether because of medical exemption or because they are leading worship or performing in a choir. Tea and coffee after worship is on hold. We are all encouraged to take a lateral flow test before meeting up with those from other households. Our Christmas services go ahead as planned with a mix of in-person and online possibilities.
Sunday worship
We meet for worship for the 4th Sunday in Advent at 9.30am in Bowden Kirk and 11.00am in Melrose Church. Melrose services are livestreamed. You can join us on our church website or Facebook page or watch the recording thereafter. www.bowdenandmelrosechurch.org The order of service is attached.
Carol Singing in Bowden – Carol Singing outside Bowden Village Hall on Sunday evening at 6.30pm.
Online Advent Calendar – The Church of Scotland is posting an online reflection each day of Advent. https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/
Christmas Services
We have united services over Christmas – details below.
Friday 24 December – a Christingle Service will be posted on our church website and Facebook page.
Friday 24 December, 11.30pm – Watchnight Service in Melrose Parish Church. (Livestreamed)
Saturday 25 December, 11.00am – Christmas Day Service in Bowden Kirk. (A Christmas Day podcast will be posted.)
Sunday 26 December, 11.00am – Sunday Worship in Melrose Church. (Livestreamed)
Television and Radio
There are other worship opportunities on Sunday. Reflections at the Quay for the fourth week of Advent is on BBC 1 at 11.35am and will be presented by Lord Jim Wallace, Moderator of the General Assembly, and Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews and Edinburgh. Music is by Celtic Worship, Ian White and cellist Rudi De Groote. Songs of Praise is on BBC 1 at 1.15pm. New Every Sunday is at 7.30am on Radio Scotland and Sunday Worship at 8.10am on Radio 4. Both will be available afterwards on BBC Sounds.
