baptismal font

based on Mark 5:21-43

June 28th 2015

Sunday’s gospel was the story of Jesus being asked to heal the daughter of Jairus, an important leader.  On his way to see the child, a woman who had been bleeding for 12 years (and therefore ritually `unclean’, as well as ill and financially destitute) touches the hem of Jesus’ cloak.  They have a remarkable conversation.

During the sermon/message time, the congregation went on a guided meditation (written by Sharon Moon in her book – The Healing Oasis). to get into the story of the woman – her need for healing and her faith.  We then transitioned to reflecting on the places in our own lives where we have felt `unclean’, or unwanted; where we have felt wounded, rejected,cut off from support or community.  We opened ourselves to God healing these wounded or rejected parts of ourselves.

After the meditation, people were invited to come forward to the baptismal font, where there was a bowl of water and a small container of olive oil.  They were invited to touch the waters of cleansing and new life in whatever way felt right for them, and then to use the oil – a symbol of blessing and healing – and anoint themselves, or be anointed and blessed.

It was a beautiful sacred time.

We were also blessed to have Jackie Cannon come and play the piano for us this day.