A very Joyful Christmas

A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM Reverend Mark

Dear Friends,

Once again, the Christmas season is almost upon us. Every year it seems to catch me out. I meander through the autumn months, knowing full well that Christmas is on the horizon, and yet despite the premature displays of festive goods in our shops and supermarkets, I never seem to be prepared. “Let’s get harvest out of the way first”, I say to myself – and then there’s Remembrance – and then before you know it, Advent is here, knocking on the door.

But before you think I’m sounding a bit like Victor Meldrew (other grumpy old men are available), I absolutely love Christmas. Not all of the hype and commercialisation – although even with that, it’s good for people to have something to smile about – there’s enough bad news in the world. It may be an overly-used phrase, but it’s the ‘real spirit of Christmas’ that I am looking forward to – singing carols, whether that be in a candle-lit service in one of our ancient churches, or with locals (and a glass of mulled wine) in the pub; watching families come together, and see the children’s faces light up at one of our crib services; and remembering again God’s amazing gift to us of his own Son, in our services on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

Rose and I would like to wish you all a very joyful and peace-filled Christmas – and if you get the chance, do come along to one of our services this Christmas – full details are given elsewhere on the website, on posters, and in the Link magazine.

With every blessing,



Mark.