Chapel Messages

Monday 20/07/2026

Monday: Opportunity for a New Beginning

Core Scripture

When a gentle south wind began to blow, they saw their opportunity; so they weighed anchor and sailed along the shore of Crete. 14 Before very long, a wind of hurricane force, called the Northeaster, swept down from the island.

— Acts 27: 13 - 14

Opening Introduction

Welcome to the first chapel service of Term 3. Our core Scripture tells us that a powerful and unexpected wind suddenly changed Paul’s journey. As we begin this new term, we are reminded that even when life changes direction, God offers us the opportunity to begin again and move faithfully towards a New Horizon.

Responsive Call to Worship

Leader: We gather at the beginning of a new term.
All: We thank God for the opportunity to begin again.

Leader: Some of us return with excitement and confidence.
All: Some of us return feeling tired, worried, or uncertain.

Leader: When unexpected storms arise,
All: God remains present with us.

Leader: When our plans and direction change,
All: God offers us wisdom and a new way forward.

Leader: As we look towards a New Horizon, 
All: Help us to walk by faith and recognise every opportunity.

Opening Prayer

Loving God,

Thank you for bringing us together at the beginning of Term 3.

We return with different experiences and emotions. Some of us are excited and hopeful. Others may be carrying disappointment, anxiety, tiredness, grief, family concerns, or uncertainty about the term ahead.

Meet each one of us where we are.

When unexpected storms arise, remind us that we are not alone. Open our eyes to the opportunities before us—the opportunity to learn, begin again, repair relationships, ask for support, make wise decisions, and encourage one another.

May our Methodist Special Character be seen through our faith, compassion, service, justice, and care for every person.

Lead us towards a New Horizon.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Reflection: When the Wind Suddenly Changes

Paul and the other travellers began their journey expecting to reach their destination safely. However, Acts 27:14 tells us that a violent wind suddenly swept down upon them.

The wind changed everything.

They could no longer control the ship or follow their original plan. Their journey became uncertain and frightening.

Our lives can also change suddenly. We may begin a school term with a clear plan, but then difficulties arise. We may struggle with learning, attendance, friendships, behaviour, family situations, health, or motivation.

We cannot always control what happens around us, but we can choose how we respond.

The storm became an opportunity for Paul to remain calm, encourage others, trust God, and provide leadership. He did not pretend that the storm was easy. He acknowledged the danger, but he refused to surrender to fear.

A new term is an opportunity to begin again. Whatever happened in Terms 1 and 2 does not have to determine the rest of the year.

God’s grace gives us another opportunity to change direction, make better choices, receive support, and grow.

A New Horizon begins when we take the next faithful step.

Application

Consider one area in which you need a new beginning:

Your attendance, punctuality, learning, attitude, behaviour, relationships, wellbeing, or participation in College life.

You do not need to change everything today. Begin with one honest and faithful step.

Closing Prayer

Gracious God,

Thank you for the opportunity of a new term.

When the winds of life suddenly change, give us calm hearts, clear minds, and wise judgement.

Help us to learn from the past without being controlled by it. Give us the courage to make a fresh beginning.

May we practise respect, responsibility, excellence, self-control, patience, and perseverance.

By faith, by learning, and by hard work, lead us towards a New Horizon.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.