Sabbath Rest

Sean Fletcher travels to Chester to explore the deep meaning of the Sabbath and why the ancient teachings on the importance of rest are still so relevant today.

In Chester, Sean meets Pastor Ian Sweeney of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, a denomination of Christians who celebrate the Sabbath on a Saturday. He discusses their initiative called Sabbath Sofa, where members of the public have been invited to take a rest on their mobile settee and think about what the day of rest means to them. Sean discovers the evolution of the Sabbath, how it has changed over the centuries, and how Ian thinks the Sabbath should be spent.

In Worcestershire, we meet Rachel Brean, a Christian who lives with chronic fatigue syndrome. She explains how she has faced the condition and is striving to inspire others to reduce the pace of life in this frantic modern world. She reflects on how slowing down has helped her to heal and reconnect with her faith.

Sean also visits a car dealership in Chester, where owner Mark Mitchell puts his faith into action by insisting that the business closes on a Sunday – despite the risk of reducing profit – so that his team can rest and spend time at home with family and friends.

And there are hymns to enjoy on the Sabbath and to keep you singing throughout the week!

1. O Jesus, I Have Promised - Chester Cathedral
2. He Has Made Me Glad - Reading Town Hall
3. Amazing Grace – The Priory, Birkenhead
4. Be Still and Know That I Am God - St Martin-in-the-Fields, London
5. Everlasting Arms - Eastbourne Bandstand
6. Lord, Thy Church on Earth Is Seeking - Chester Cathedral