The Rector's Notes

 


The Rector
 

December  - 2008

The Archbishop of Canterbury surely made a good point recently when he said that society had forgotten how to wait for Christmas.

TV adverts for Christmas fare and presents began in mid-November; soon we will have Christmas songs on the radio and the round of 'Christmas' parties, and by the time Christmas actually comes it is in danger of being almost an anti-climax.

As churches, we have accepted the inevitable, and allowed Carol Services, Christingles etc into the Advent season. I don't disagree with that-we can't swim against the tide, we have to catch the outside world as and when it is ready to listen.

But it surely enriches our appreciation of Christmas if, as far as possible, we wait for it. Realise that we do the Christmassy things early for the sake of mission to others; and for ourselves observe the Advent season of waiting as far as we can.

Living in Advent quietness and darkness heightens our appreciation of the joy and light of the coming of our Lord; by watching and praying for his arrival and deliverance we learn not to take him for granted. I hope you enjoy the build-up to Christmas - the early festive things, yes; but also the quieter, thoughtful, prayerful preparation for it.

Happy Advent, Christmas and New Year - Robert

THE RECTOR'S NOTES

Pub Carols - Do bring your friends and Neighbours - including those with children - to the Lounge of The Lady Bay on the 20th. It will be a welcoming and neutral environment where church goers and non Churchgoers can meet easily and sing the Christmas Story. Drinks will not be served until after the service, when food will also be available while we sing some more light hearted Christmas songs.

Scout Carols - We are invited to join the Scout Group in their carol-o-gramming to raise funds for a new Scout Hut. Meet there at 6.45pm on Tuesday 9th or 6.30pm on Thursday 18th.

New Year Prayer Meeting, Saturday January 3rd. We ran out of time to pray for All Hallows' on November 1st, so what better way to start the New Year than by doing so? Coffee 9.45-10.15am; 15 minutes of praise and thanksgiving, 30 mins. of intercessions, 15 mins. of winding up, finishing 11.15am. Do bring your thanks and concerns.