April 2025

​

The Promise of Salvation and the Glory of Easter

 

Dear Friends,

 

As we enter the heart of Lent and journey towards the cross, we do so with the hope and assurance that Easter brings. The promise of salvation through Christ’s sacrifice and the glory of His resurrection reminds us that, even in the darkest moments, God’s love prevails. The cross is not the end of the story—Easter morning declares new life, redemption, and restoration for all.

 

I encourage you to deepen your walk with Christ in these sacred weeks by joining our Thursday evening Lent studies which end on 10 April, as we reflect on the theme:

Soul - Food, Shelter, Rest, Repair, Mates and Songs.

 

(updated zoom link:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/96278447185?pwd=r9KvaC3uBkJt9UtJnSEmqphUfwvMIp.1
Meeting ID: 962 7844 7185
Passcode: LENT25)

 

As Holy Week approaches, I invite you to participate in our special evening services, (posters were sent to the churches) drawing us into the powerful moments of Jesus’ final days. On Good Friday afternoon, we gather as a Circuit at Old Dagenham Methodist Church to meditate on Jesus’ Seven Words from the Cross, led by our ministers and local preachers. This will be a time of solemn reflection, gratitude, and renewal.

​

I also want to take this moment to thank each of you for all you do—your presence, your prayers, your service, and your generous giving. Your faithfulness sustains our church and enables us to live out our shared calling. As we look ahead, let us embrace our Circuit’s vision priorities:

 

• Worship – that is inclusive and honours God in spirit and truth.

• Evangelism – sharing the good news of Jesus boldly and with love.

• Pastoral Care and Outreach – walking alongside one another with compassion.

• Families and Young People – nurturing the next generation in faith.

• Communication – ensuring that our message of hope is clear and accessible.

To this end the Circuit is looking to employ a Lay Pastoral Worker to support the ministers as well as employing a Family and Children’s Worker – watch this space!

 

As we live out our faith this Lent, I invite you to support the Redbridge Foodbank through the 40p for 40 days appeal. This simple act of giving up something—a daily coffee, a small treat—can make a tangible difference. For me, it means skipping my usual Costa or Starbucks coffee and offering that money to the foodbank, ensuring that someone else can experience the love of Christ. Over 40 days, this adds up to £16—a small sacrifice that can provide real help to those in need.

 

Additionally, we encourage you to bring non-perishable foods and toiletries to support our Circuit community project at Grange Hill Methodist Church, where many rely on our generosity. Together, let us be the hands and feet of Christ, ensuring that no one in our community is forgotten or goes hungry.

 

An Easter Prayer

Risen Lord,

In Your victory over death, You bring life to the weary, hope to the broken, and salvation to all who call on Your name.

As we stand at the empty tomb, may we be filled with resurrection joy.

Empower us to be bearers of Your light in our homes, our church, and our community.

Bless our church family, our Circuit, and all who seek You this Easter season.

In Your glorious name, we pray. Amen.

 

Wishing you a blessed and joy-filled Easter,

 

Mmasape