Dear friends,
Advent is a time of anticipation and preparation, it offers solace and hope amidst a world brimming with bad news. As we step into this sacred season, we have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the true essence of advent, more than just a chocolate each morning in our advent calendars!
Rather than succumbing to the weight of negativity in the world around us, we can choose to focus on the ultimate good news: Jesus. By seeking a deeper understanding of his teachings and embodying his example of love and compassion, we can truly enter into the spirit of advent as we prepare to celebrate Jesus’ birth at Christmas. As we reflect on the birth of Christ, let us rally around the unyielding hope and love he brings, transforming our perspectives and illuminating the path ahead.
You are so welcome to join us this Advent as we journey as a community towards the hope and joy of Jesus.
Revd Grant
SERVICEs THIS WEEKend
In our new style crib service we will gather together and re-tell the greatest story every told! We will sing some wonderful carols and encourage full family participation. Come dressed as a bible character. Yes tea-towels are mandatory! - or come as any of your favourite superhero’s - perhaps there will be a Batman instead of a shepherd this year? Who knows? Bring your friends and family and neighbours for what promises to be a fantastic way to enter into Christmas!
All are welcome to join us for our Midnight Communion at St Mary’s, Aldworth. We will start Christmas Day thanking the Lord, and contemplating the enormity of the miracle of Christmas.
A short family service of songs and readings with a fun Christmas message designed for the whole family to come to church and worship. ‘Come and adore him’ at 10am Christmas Day - St. Stephen’s Church Upper Basildon.
We celebrate Christmas together at 9.30am with communion for the whole family. This is a communion service with a collection of wonderful hymns and readings followed by a fabulous Christmas message for all ages. A joyful way to worship together on Christmas Day!
St. Bartholomew’s Fundraising Concert
Services next week
In our new style crib service we will gather together and re-tell the greatest story every told! We will sing some wonderful carols and encourage full family participation. Come dressed as a bible character. Yes tea-towels are mandatory! - or come as any of your favourite superhero’s - perhaps there will be a Batman instead of a shepherd this year? Who knows? Bring your friends and family and neighbours for what promises to be a fantastic way to enter into Christmas!
LAtest episode of our Podcast
This Advent reflection was given by Revd Grant Fensome at the All Churches Together service on Advent Sunday 2024 at St. Stephen's Upper Basildon.
