It’s Sunday and the Vine Church is gathering for its Morning Meeting. Some people come very early, because there are always things to be prepared. So the musicians arrive early to practice; the teachers come to lay out stuff ready for the children; the ‘hospitality people’ get everything ready to serve tea and coffee, at the end of the meeting.
Gradually people arrive. Some of us come with wheelchairs, walking sticks and walkers; so we are grateful for all the drivers who wait patiently while we make our rather slow way into the building – and they even smile at us, as we hold them up! The children come rushing in seeking their favourite games and favourite people. Old friends are warmly welcomed and there are lots of conversations, all over the building. And gradually, the people of the Vine come together until everyone is here. Then we sing to God and talk to Him; we learn more about Him and share our stories of His goodness to us.
Of course, the building is not used just on Sunday. There are midweek meetings for the church and one of our Small Groups meets there. On Monday morning the Parent and Toddler Group make great use of the whole building. The ladies of the 4Women Group meet together on Tuesday; and on Thursday, anyone who enjoys tea, coffee, conversation and cake, comes along to enjoy Coffee Break. (Details of these and any other events are posted on the church door).
A church is not, however, the building but the people who belong to it. Most of the members live in Littleport; the rest live in Ely and the surrounding villages. We try to be good neighbours and friends, to support all the good things that are happening in Littleport and, in general, to be courteous drivers and pedestrians, local shoppers and good ‘Littleportians’.
On Thursday 8 September, we started an 8 week Alpha Course. This course is designed for people who sometimes wonder what are these Christians on about? Is it possible to know what is right and what is wrong? So what will happen to me after I die, or will I just disappear into nothing? If there is a God, is He interested in me and my life?
Why not give it a try? You may find answers to your questions, you may be bored stiff or you may be changed forever – and the food is great!
A message from The Vine Community Church
