Happy Wednesday, friends!
I hope your week is going well so far.
It was C. S. Lewis who said, “The Church exists for nothing else, but to draw people to Christ”. And whilst I think the Church has lots of roles to play within the community and in the wider world, this certainly has to remain its primary vocation. With Lent coming up in a few weeks time I wanted to share with you a new lent group Naomi and I’ll be running on Wednesday evenings through March (video trailer below) which is designed to equip us to be drawn nearer to Christ. After the difficulties of the past couple of years, and the political and financial volatility of the current times, this short five week journey enables us to hear God’s voice through praying the scriptures. We will read, meditate, pray and contemplate together. You are most welcome to join us as we journey together - drop me an email to let me know you’re interested and I can get the necessary resources ready.
As always, if there is anything that we can do or pray for to support you or your loved ones then please do not hesitate to get in touch with me.
God Bless,
Grant
SERVICES THIS WEEKEND
The Christmas Story for all the Family. Everybody is encouraged to come dressed as a Nativity character (or anything else!). There will be cracking carols, lots of celebration and lots to eat and drink! Come and join us as we celebrate Christmas in style.
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.
Family News
I am really pleased to be able to share with you all the wonderful news that Jen and Graham have welcomed their beautiful little boy into the world.
A note from the Masterton-Smith family, who's house sadly was destroyed by fire in Basildon last year.