We are a cross-shaped community at St Michael’s. That is, we love what Jesus did for us through his death and resurrection. In this period after Easter we will be looking at what it means to be a cross-shaped community by exploring what the first Christian community looked like in the Book of Acts.

In Acts 1:8, the resurrected and soon to be ascended Jesus charts the mission for his disciples: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.’”

The world says, “Sure, move out! But be like us.” Christians often say, “Amen! We’ll be witnesses. But we don’t want to move out.” Chapters 5-8 of the book of Acts charts how God enabled both to happen – His people to broke out into the world and maintained their distinctiveness as Jesus’ witnesses.

How do we live in our world, yet keep our identity as God’s people? Membership and contribution to a cross-shaped community – the church - is vital. God did it for the first church and, because His Holy Spirit is alive today, we will explore how He can continue to do so.

You are welcome to join us at any of our celebrations – 8.45am with the Companions in the hall, 10.30am for All Nations, 2pm for Korean Speakers, and 5pm for a relaxed Anglican service.

Christ be with you,

Francis