Sunday 24th July 2022

A service of Morning Prayer with hymns was held at All Hallows' Church led by Anne Galbraith and Carol Adams. 

With the Commonwealth Games fast approaching Anne was inspired to reflect on the life and work of Eric Liddell, the athlete who refused  to run and compete on a Sunday in the 1924 Olympic Games in Paris. He later went on to create a world record in the 400 metres winning a gold medal. Many will remember the story captured in the award winning film; Chariots of Fire;

Following in his father's footsteps Eric responded to God's call serving for 20years as a missionary in China. In the weeks before the bombing of Pearl Harbour Eric arranged for his wife and family to go to Canada intending to folllow himself but he was captured and interned in Weihsien Camp in Northern China. He died in the camp from a brain tumour at the age of 43 years.

At the end of Anne's reflection our organist Mr Nigel Clayburn played Eric's favourite hymn.

Be still my soul: the Lord is on thy side

Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain

Leave to thy God to order and provide

In every change he faithful will remain

Be still my soul: thy best, thy heavenly friend

Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end 

Anne concluded by recommending the book 'The disciplines of the Christian Life' based on the original manuscripts of Eric Liddell and first published 40 years after his death.

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