Healing of the Paralytic by John Armstrong (1893-1973)

I came upon this painting by the English artist John Armstrong, and it jumped out at me immediately … or rather, I jumped into it immediately. There is something about the perspective that opens up new dimensions, new understandings.

At the centre of the canvas we see the paralyzed man, with Jesus by his side, as we see in every artistic re-creation of this scene (Mark 2:1-12). It is only natural and right that we focus upon that man – we know nothing about him but his need of healing from his paralysis, and we identify with him.

But looking down upon the scene as if from above, what strikes me even more are the four friends, straining to lower their ill friend into the presence of Jesus. We know nothing of them but their determination to bring their friend to know the embrace of Jesus. Might our call as Christians be to identify with those four friends, and bring our world to our God for healing and new life?

Join us as we continue our journey through the Gospel according to Mark.

Certified child care is offered during the service and there is free parking on the streets around (please note that the time-of-day restrictions on Clergy Street north of Queen are not in effect on Sundays) and in the surface civic lot just behind the church off Queen Street.

Have a look at the Order of Service and bulletin below, and consider each hymn and prayer and announcement a personal invitation to join us in Christian worship, community and service. If you have any questions about forthcoming events and opportunities, please call the church office Tuesday – Thursday, 9 a.m. – noon, 613-546-6316, or email [email protected]

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Our journey through the Gospel according to Mark will continue next week with Mark 2:13-22

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