In Sunday's Gospel passage (overleaf), Jesus meets Matthew, a tax collector. People thought Matthew was the wrong kind of person to follow Jesus — but Jesus saw his heart and said, “Follow me.” He then reminded everyone, “I want mercy, not sacrifice.” Mercy is uncomfortable. It challenges our prejudices. But like Matthew rising to follow Jesus in the midst of his imperfect life, we are called to act where the need is real: by welcoming, by speaking up, by showing kindness.

I read earlier this week that Pope Leo XIV has reminded us that migrants are not enemies, but brothers and sisters in need, urging compassion and hospitality even when policies or politics make it difficult. That’s a good lesson for us. In the news we hear about people leaving their homes because of war or poverty. They are not strangers to be feared, but neighbours to be welcomed. Jesus asks us to show mercy — kindness, understanding, and love — even when it is hard. Maybe this week we can look for one chance to show mercy, just as Jesus does for us.

FOR OUR PRAYERS

This week we pray especially for:

Annie G – Chris - Ann J - Cathy E - Jake C - Jane L - Adrian & Jane D - Yancy T - Tyler

The prayer team continue to pray for all who have requested prayer.

To request a prayer: email: prayer@sholing.church

HARVEST SUPPER

Fri 17 Oct – 6pm for 6.30pm

Sign-up sheet is in church. This is a Picnic Supper (bring your own). Tea, Coffee and squash will be provided. After supper we will have some congregational singing followed by the usual cabaret of talented folk.

CHRISTMAS CHOC DONATIONS

We kindly ask for any chocolate donations for the Christmas Fayre to be bought into church. Thanks.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR CHILDREN

At this year’s Christmas Grotto (13th Dec), children will have the opportunity to meet ‘Santa’ and receive a gift.

If you’d like to donate a small gift (up to £5), we need gifts for: GIRLS aged 12-18 months; 2-4 years; 8-10 years; and BOYS aged 11 years+.

SOUND WORSHIP

Sun 28 Sept – 4pm

Sound Worship is a Christian orchestra made up of players from churches of various denominations from all over Hampshire.

INDOOR CAR BOOT SALE

Sat 27 Sept – 9am-12 noon

Please come along and support us!

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING

Woolston Library | Sat 27 Sept – 10.30am

Bring and/or buy a cake. Small toy sale too!

Pew News - 21 Sept 2025