Happy New Year 2010

"Creator God

at the start 

of this New Year

when thoughts turn again 

to beginnings

starting afresh 

new leaves 

and turning skeletons 

free from cupboards

be with us 

as we gaze into the distance 

of fresh mission grounds

of hopes and dreams

opportunities for service

challenges

and uncertainties

Take our fears 

and turn them into strengths

Take our lack of faith 

and empower us

through the Spirit 

who breathes life into this world 

whose presence is reflected 

in the icy chill 

of winter's breath 

as well as the comforting warmth 

of a summer breeze.

Walk with us into this New Year 

of opportunity"

- Celtic Christian New Year's Prayer by John Birch

Ref: The Celtic Christian Church 

The Opening Door

Happy New Year - 2009

I love Celtic things - Traditions, Culture, Art, Music - it all calls to me from some timeless part of me that flows in my blood.

In Celtic culture, the arrival of a new year is sacred. The herald of a new beginning; a fresh start. This was part of the reason why the feast of the Nativity (Christmas) began to be celebrated around the time of the Winter Equinox, when light begins to regain balance against the dark.

In Northern England and Scotland, it is traditional to go from house to house, celebrating the good news of a new year with food and drink. Much importance is given to the one who makes the "first-footing," i.e. the first one to cross the threshold of the open door on the first day of the new year. From that tradition arose a prayer that asks Christ Himself to come and "first-foot."

This prayer comes from a wonderful book called "Celtic Daily Prayer."

 

"This day is a new day 

that has never been before. 

This year is a new year, 

the opening door. 

 

(Open the door) 

 

Enter, Lord Christ - 

we have joy in Your coming. 

You have given us life, 

and we welcome Your coming. 

 

I turn now to face You, 

I lift up my eyes. 

Be blessing my face, Lord; 

be blessing my eyes. 

May all my eye looks on 

be blessed and be bright, 

my neighbours, my loved ones 

be blessed in Your sight. 

 

You have given us life 

and we welcome Your coming. 

Be with us, Lord, 

we have joy, we have joy. 

This year is a new year, 

the opening door. 

Be with us, Lord, 

we have joy, we have joy."

***HAPPY NEW YEAR***