UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2021
Holy Habits at Hedge End Methodist Church.
Holy Habits is about a godly way of living; a way of being disciples of Jesus, personally and in community. It is a resource which offers a pattern for personal and church growth by taking people on a journey through the ‘habits’ found in the portrait of the early church presented in Acts 2.42-47:
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. 44 All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45 they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceed to all, as any had need. 46 Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
Acts 2. 42-47
Last October(2020) the Church Council agreed to set up a small group to work alongside the Stewards to investigate Holy Habits with a view to introducing it at Hedge End. The group undertook this task with care and enthusiasm and, in consultation with the Stewards, concluded that Holy Habits could indeed help us grow as disciples, bond us as a church family, and help us find our ‘new normal’.
Holy Habits was launched in April on Zoom involving some fun activities, worship, and an introduction to Holy Habits.
In the Sunday service on the following day, we began our first habit Prayer, chosen because it seems more adaptable to Coronavirus restrictions than a habit such as Eating Together (definitely a habit to look forward to!) Holy Habits should have something for everyone, with different ways to participate in Sunday services, at special events, in small groups and on an individual basis. For every habit there will be opportunities and resources for learning and reflection, practical suggestions, plus ideas to take the habit further.
The second habit, Breaking Bread, ran from Sunday, 13th June until Sunday 1st August, followed by a summer break. Plans for beginning a third habit will be formed taking into consideration the arrival of Revd John Hughes in September. Provision will be made throughout for those unable to access on-line sessions and resources.
Holy Habits is not a quick fix! If each of the ten habits is explored for around two months, the whole journey could last two years or so, but it is not meant to be an arduous trek! The habits often blend with and complement the seasons of the church year, and are about affirming what we already are and do as well as trying fresh approaches. If we are to be truly open to God working through Holy Habits it is important that the whole church family is on board and, hopefully, we will enjoy the Holy Habits journey together. Much more information on Holy Habits will be shared during the coming weeks but please contact , the Stewards or the Holy Habits group if you have any questions.
Hedge End Methodist Church 