With thanks again to Rev Mel. (For those on FB I can recommend for daily (& Sunday) services.).
If today was not a Sunday we would be celebrating
SAINTS ANNE AND JOACHIM
In the proto-gospel of James, written in the middle of the second century, the parents of Mary the mother of Jesus are named as Anne and Joachim. The story appears to be based heavily on that of Hannah, the mother of Samuel. The Church maintains their feast day both to emphasise God’s plan from the beginning to send his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem fallen humanity; and also to show God’s faithfulness in keeping his covenant with all generations.
Collect
Lord God of Israel,
who bestowed such grace on Anne and Joachim
that their daughter Mary grew up obedient to your word
and made ready to be the mother of your Son:
help us to commit ourselves in all things to your keeping
and grant us the salvation you promised to your people;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Holy Annie, God’s Granny, pray for us! (Joachim too!)
Wyvis Churches 