Meeting Needs, Bringing Hope, Sharing Love

Transcription

1 Meeting Needs, Bringing Hope, Sharing Love Unto us a child is born December 2018 Newsletter Vicar: Rev. John Langlands Churchwarden Dave Baldwin Churchwarden John Cox Deputy Warden Vic Murray

2 Rev John's Jotting It's coming to the end of one year and the beginning of another. At such a time, I like to take stock and reflect on the past year. Then I think about any new resolutions I may need to take on board in the year that lies ahead. How quickly time flies! What special and important things have happened to you in 2018? Has it been a good or a bad year for you? With hindsight would you have done things differently? Whatever your answers, there are two things we cannot stop - time and change! It has been said, 'Don't count your years, but make your years count!' and, 'finishing something is more important than starting it'. I always find strength by finding time to be still and pray. One of the great passages in the Bible says this -They that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength they will rise up on wings like an eagle, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint'(lsaiah chapter 40 verse31) I trust you will find much to be thankful for as you leave 2018 behind and have bright hope for tomorrow as 2019 unfolds so that you can indeed rise like the wings of an eagle! With all good wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Rev John (Arley churches motto: You will not walk alone. Together we are with you on life's journey)<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< Consider the Evergreen Evergreens decorate our homes and churches during Christmas, reminding us of the promise of everlasting life and our ability to weather hardship. The evergreen remains unchanged through the seasons, inspiring a message of hope to persevere through adversity. The Christmas tree is a symbol of Christ, the miracle of Christmas, and God s gift of life. The green boughs on a Christmas wreath or a garland point us the perennially freshness of life -- that even when we feel as though our world is growing stale, there is always an element of newness and rebirth.

3 Quiet Corner: Love Love is not visible. We cannot see it with our eyes but we can feel it in our hearts. It brings warmth, assurance and comfort. Surely love for our fellow human beings is the highest ideal for our lives here on earth. Hopefully this love will be reflected in our behaviour and actions. It will most likely spring from our own love for God, who made us and provides for us. We are thankful for the gift of life and that He looks after us. In 1945 Ivor Novello wrote the song Love is my reason for living. You could take that as a guiding principle for life in general. In fact love should influence all we say and do (and think). If our lives are inspired by love I trust that will be pleasing in God s sight. Here is a little prayer at the start of the day: May all we do and all we say, our every thought throughout the day, be pleasing in your sight today. Albert Schweitzer once wrote: The only important thing in life are the traces of love we leave behind when we go. May other thoughts and stories from life, give you moments of quiet and reflection, and may they help to bring you a feeling of peace and contentment. May you always be blessed with the warmth of Love. <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< Over two thousand years ago, there were no earthly plans for celebrating Jesus birth. Quietly and unannounced, Joseph and Mary entered Bethlehem and searched for a place to spend the night.it was a busy time in the Judean village, but the excitement had nothing to do with the upcoming birth. The crowds had gathered to take part in a census. They didn t know that Mary was about to deliver the Saviour. As the year 2000 approached, the story had changed. There were serious discussions going on about how Bethlehem could get ready for the estimated 4 million tourists who would converge on the Israeli city during Christmas What a contrast to that first Christmas! We can all make the plans we want to, but the best way to celebrate Jesus birthday is by trusting Him as our Saviour. You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1: v 21)

4 ARMISTICE DAY: What a wonderful day this turned out to be in honouring our local war heroes. St. Wilfrid s Church was full for our memorial service. The service began with the entry of the British Legion Standard carried by Tony Guy the standard was paraded to the altar to the strains of The Boys of The Old Brigade a very evocative tune for the occasion, the colours were placed on the altar, wreaths of poppies from many organisations were then brought forward and placed around the altar A very thought provoking service was given by our Vicar Rev. John, the service included the hymns Eternal Father, Onward Christian Soldiers and finally O Valiant Heart. It was wonderful to see so many faces in the congregation there not only to show their respect and thanks to those who laid down their lives but all those who served our country in times of conflict, There was an even bigger assembly of people at the Cenotaph The names of those who perished in the two World Wars were read out followed by the exaltation and the Last Post then after 2 minutes silence, the Reveille. The wreaths were dutifully laid and during this time an airplane flew over and carried out a poppy drop thanks to Tony Guy of The British Legion for organising the occasion. Thanks also to Mr.John Trueman for the music at the Cenotaph From the attendance at the ceremony and the age ranges it is quite obvious that Arley is indeed a place where WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

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6 Thoughts on Christmas

7 Christmas is the celebration of the birth of God and our new beginnings. It is a magical season that brings joy, love, and togetherness within families and friends. Everyone has their own way of celebrating it. But many of us forget about its true meaning and what true spirit of Christmas really feels like. Christmas is more than just exchanging gifts, decorating, shopping, and eating good food. It is not just a time for festivity and merry making. It is more than that. Best of all, Christmas means a spirit of love, a time when the love of God and the love of our fellow men should prevail over all hatred and bitterness, a time when our thoughts and deeds and the spirit of our lives manifest the presence of God. George F. McDougall Christmas is the perfect time to celebrate the love of God and family and to create memories that will last forever. Jesus is God s perfect, indescribable gift. The amazing thing is that not only are we able to receive this gift, but we are able to share it with others on Christmas and every other day of the year. Joel Osteen And when we give each other Christmas gifts in His name, let us remember that He has given us the sun and the moon and the stars, and the earth with its forests and mountains and oceans and all that lives and move upon them. He has given us all green things and everything that blossoms and bears fruit and all that we quarrel about and all that we have misused and to save us from our foolishness, from all our sins, He came down to earth and gave us Himself. Sigrid Undset Christmas has a deeper significance to followers of Jesus. It s not all about the gifts underneath Christmas trees or the elaborate meals served in extravagantly decorated homes. Christmas is the season of Immanuel. We celebrate the good news that He is near, that He cares for us, and that He transforms lives. His presence was the greatest present God gave mankind. May we be present carriers of that presence? Katherine J. Walden What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace. Agnes M. Phar

8 Like Most People, Christmas evokes all kinds of emotion. There is grief of loved ones lost,anxiety about how to handle difficult relationships at family get-togethers. There is stress when adding yet another item to an ever-expanding to-do list. Most of all, though, Christmas inspires hope. The symbols and stories surrounding the birth of Jesus whisper, Don t give up. Keep going. Christmas is about believing in things that defy logic: the Son of God being born to a virgin in a stable filled with farm animals. This holy season prompts us to become childlike in our faith: to think with our hearts rather than our brains, to embrace a world beyond our own, trusting that God is with us every day. Christmas inspires faith in God and in His goodness, truth, and beauty that are very real but not always visible. Perhaps the greatest story of courage ever told was Mary s three-word response to the angel Gabriel when he explained to her that she would bear the Son of God. Let it be, she said, I am the handmaid of the Lord. With great humility, she opens herself to God s will and submits to His plan, even though she knows none of the details. By uttering Let it be she initiates the Christmas story and the arrival of God into human history. Mary s response also generates hope for all believers The angel Gabriel may not appear to us as vividly as he did to Mary, but we are all surrounded by angels that we can call on for guidance and assistance whenever we need it. They sit at the top of decorated trees as beacons of hope sending the message that we are not alone. Advent teaches us to anticipate the good things that we can t see and to remember the presence of the royal King in our lives, who bestows upon us gifts beyond measure. Light shines brightest in darkness. That s the heart of the Christmas story, an overriding message of hope that is articulated beautifully in the lyrics of O Holy Night : O holy night, the stars are brightly shining, It is the night of our dear Saviour s birth. God didn t come into our world at high noon. He entered our lives in darkness -- showing us the way to light, guiding us towards love, and demonstrating how to overcome shadows and blackness. Christmas teaches us that even when things seem dark, we can trust the everlasting light.

9 Days Venue Contact No. s Monday Group Old Barn 7:30/Dave Thursday Group Old Barn 7:15/John Services January 2019 Date St. Wilfrid s St. Michael s Date SERVICE Info Healing Service 7.30 pm Family Service 9.00am Holy Communion 10.30am The Epiphany Holy Communion 9.00am Family Service 10.30am Family Service with Holy Communion 10.30am Healing Service 9.00am Holy Communion 9.00am Family Service 10.30am January 2019 Date Readings Readers Ephesians 3 v 1-12 Vic Wk. 1 Gospel Matthew 2 v 1-12 Denise Acts 8 v Chris Wk.2 Gospel Luke 3.vs /22 Peter Corinthians 12 vs 1-11 Janet Wk. 3 Gospel John 2 v 1-11 Jackie Corinthians 12 vs Gerry Wk.4 Gospel Luke 4 vs Simon HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL Testimonies, stories Or memories from years ago we would love to hear from you. Please contact Maureen or John on or send us an on strowgerhouse@btinternet.com Many thanks. NB.

10 It came upon a Midnight Clear Edmund H Sears. Sears context was the social strife that plagued the country as the Civil War approached. This hymn comes from, Christian Register, published in Dec It came upon a midnight clear that glorious song of old, from angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold. Peace on the earth, goodwill to men from heaven s all gracious king! The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing With sorrow brought by sin and strife the world has suffered long and, since the angels sang, have passed two thousand years of wrong; for man at war with man hears not the love song which they bring O hush the noise, ye men of strife and hear the angels sing. And those whose journey now is hard, whose hope is burning low, who tread the rocky path of life with painful steps and slow; O listen to the news of love which makes the heavens ring! O rest beside the weary road and hear the angels sing. And still the days are hastening on by prophets seen of old towards the fullness of the time when comes the age foretold: then earth and heaven renewed shall see the Prince of Peace, their King; and all the world repeat the song which now the angels sing.

11 There was a Scottish farmer who did not believe in the Christmas story. The idea that God would become a man was absurd. His wife, howeve r, was a devout believer and raised their children in her faith. The farmer sometimes gave her a hard time, mocking her faith and belief in the incarnation of God in the baby of Bethlehem: It s all nonsense, he said. Why would God lower himself to become a human like us? It s such a ridiculous story. One snowy Sunday evening his wife took the children to church while the farmer relaxed at home.after they had left, the weather deteriorated into a blinding snowstorm. Then he heard a loud thump against the window. Then another thump! He ventured outside to see what was happening. There in the field was the strangest sight; a flock of geese! They had been migrating south but had become disorientated by the storm. They were stranded on his farm, unable to fly or see their way. The farmer had compassion on them. He wanted to help them and realised his barn would give them shelter for the night. He opened the barn doors and stood back hoping they would make their way in. but they didn t realise it would be shelter for them. So he tried to shoo the geese in, but they ran in all directions. Perplexed, he got some bread and made a trail to the barn door. But they still didn t catch on. Nothing he could do would get them into the warmth and shelter of the barn. Feeling totally frustrated, he exclaimed. Why don t they follow me? Can t they see this is the only place where they can survive the storm? How can I possibly get them to follow me? He thought for a moment and then realised that they would not follow a human. He said to himself. How can I possibly save them? The only way would be for me to become a goose. If only I could become like one of them. They would follow me and I would lead them to safety. At that moment he stopped and realised what he had said. The words reverberated in his head. If only I could become like one of them, then I could save them. Then, at last, he understood God s heart towards humankind. He fell on his knees in the snow and worshipped him! *************************************************************** There was once a man in Russia whose name was Rudolph the Red. He was standing in his house one day with his wife. He looked out of the window and said Look darling its raining. I don t think so dear, I think its snowing. But, Rudolph knew better. So he said to his wife, let s step outside and we ll find out. Lo and behold they stepped outside and discovered it was in fact rain. And Rudolph turned to his wife and said, I knew it was raining. Rudolph the Red knows rain, dear!.

12 I n C h r i s t m a s i n E n g l a n d i n t h e s "I was born towards the end of the War, so my memories date to the late 1940's. Our Christmas always started late on Christmas Eve. Mother would have invariably been to the market as it closed hoping for some last minute bargains. As we prepared for bed we would write our present requests and holding them above the flame allow them to drift up the chimney in the smoke to Father Christmas. Then upstairs and our stockings (large socks) were placed at the bottom of our beds. It was so difficult to get to sleep. We would wake while it was still dark. Has he been yet?' Yes!' We would grab our stockings and run to our parent's room. Only to be sent back because it was too early. We'd sit on our beds feeling every bump and shape. What was in there? We would never dream of unpacking them on our own. Eventually the shout would go up. He's been!' Dragging our stockings we'd all tumble into my parent's bed. Who would get the best place, in between my parents? It was warm. No danger of getting cold when the excitement began to fade, and there was no danger of falling out when someone got over enthusiastic. At the top of the Christmas stocking there was always something soft and cuddly.. Then a painting or activity book. I always liked magic painting books, where you just had to add water for the picture to appear, or those shiny scribbling book where your pencil produced the same effect. A small pack of colouring pencils, we might need those for school. Some sort of game, perhaps a pack of cards. Old Maid, Happy Families and Snap spring to mind. Or maybe the latest playground craze. Jacks, Five Stones, Yo-yos. Then if we were really lucky another small toy. A car or, in those days, a gun for the boys and tomboys of the family, or perhaps something to make. A packet of sweets or a small chocolate bar. Finally the essential item of clothing, a pair of gloves, socks or pants. We'd reach the heel, an apple, an orange and a handful of nuts. Then joy of joy a pink or white sugar mouse. Something that had to be eaten immediately. Right in the depths of the toe was a bright shiny penny. Not a lot, compared with what some lucky children seem to receive these days. Our home was filled, especially at Christmas, with love and security. I think my Christmas stocking expresses the anticipation of Advent, and the wonder, joy, magic, mystery and love of Christmas In addition to our own family we were normally joined on Christmas Day by my uncles and aunts and cousins, and on Boxing Day too.

13 Prayer for Christmas Eve: Father, in this holy night your Son our Saviour was born a human child. Help the Church also to be the Body of Christ. In this holy night Christians the world over are celebrating His birth. Open our hearts that he may be born in us today. In this holy night there was no room for your Son in the inn. Protect with love those who have no home and all who live in poverty. In this holy night Mary in the pain of labour brought your Son to birth. Hold in your hand - all who are in any kind of pain or distress today. In this holy night your Christ came as a light shining in the darkness. Bring comfort to all who suffer in the sadness of our world. In this holy night shepherds in the fields heard good tidings of joy. Give us grace to preach the gospel of Christ s redemption. In this holy night the angels sang, Peace to God s people on earth. Strengthen those who work for your peace and justice in all the world. In this holy night strangers saw Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Bless our homes and all whom we love. In this holy night heaven is come down to earth, and earth is raised to heaven. Keep in safety all those who have gone through death in the hope of heaven. In this holy night angels and shepherds worshipped at the manger throne. God, who became as we are may we become as you are. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Stay well this winter: People are more likely to succumb to colds in winter, the change in seasons from the drying warmth of the summer to the damp cool of autumn and winter. Small changes in our diet and lifestyle can make surprisingly big changes to the strength of our immune system. Here are some tips, increase your intake of pungent and warming foods, such as ginger, garlic, turmeric and chilli. Stick to an organic, low toxin system to reduce stress on your digestion and liver. Keep moving, stimulating the circulation and keeping the blood pumping around the body helps nourish the immune system. Try to include seasonal dark green leafy vegetables, sweet potatoes, broccoli and colourful berries. You can boost your immunity further with herbal remedies. Elderberry syrup is wonderfully soothing for coughs and colds. Elderberries contain anti-viral and anti-inflammatory constituents and are also high in antioxidants and natural vitamin C, which makes them powerful immune modulators. Try andrographis, an incredibly powerful antibacterial, anti parasitic and antimicrobial herb with the ability to reduce the severity and duration of infections. Keep some to hand at the first tingle of a cold! Ginger stimulates the circulation and invigorates the blood. Ginger is also a strong antibacterial and anti-viral that can help fight infection.

14 A Mysterious Christmas Gift: I looked at the gift. It looked SO different than the others under the tree. It was so carefully wrapped and even had a ribbon tied in a bow. In rich red paper it was beautiful! THIS gift was larger than the others too. Something was missing It didn t have a name on it. I couldn t ask whose it was; it seemed too special. I just looked in wonder. Just having it under the tree added something special to Christmas. That Christmas, along with other holidays, was not special. Holidays, in my home, were filled with lots of drinking. Drinking always led to yelling... In our home the special had been lost in events. This Christmas in particular was framed in angry discussions of job loss and financial stress. I overheard a lot. The GIFT was so mysterious; it was a blaze of red colour in my black and white world. It captured my mind. I could hardly contain myself as the time came to open presents! I am the youngest of four. Presents were handed out in order, oldest to youngest. Each time another gift was handed out the anticipation built.it did not go to my sister...my oldest brother did not get it...my middle brother was given the box next to it... Next, my mum s hand reached for THE gift... my world went into slow motion when she handed THE mysterious, beautifully wrapped gift to me! For just a moment I didn t move. Maybe it was a mistake then I saw the hidden tag; it said, To Mike from Santa. It was real. It was for me. My fingers began to un-wrap the box; I was still in disbelief. As the paper fell away, I could hardly believe my eyes; a brand new pair of black ice skates. New for ME! Being the youngest boy with two older brothers almost nothing was new coming to me. Now right in front of me were brand new shiny ice skates. I remember nothing else of that day beyond skating up and down the ice covered country roads. I was the only one thankful for the recent ice storm! In the next few days, I m sure I must have broken some world record for the distance skated by a 9 year old boy. That gift lifted me out of a fog. I m not sure what I would label the fog. Maybe it was the expectation that somehow Christmas should be special. Maybe it was TV or maybe comments I heard at school but somehow I thought Christmas should be a special time. The mysterious gift made that Christmas the most memorable of my childhood. I never found out who Santa was. I wish I could say, Thank you and let them know how much that gift meant. Someone s kindness made a significant impact and a memorable Christmas. I now know there is another mysterious gift that makes Christmas special. Often it is missed in the busyness, emotion or misplaced focus of the season. This gift has removed the fog of despair that had a grip on my life. This mysterious gift came in the form of a baby born in a stable. When I consider that Jesus left the perfection of heaven, it is almost incomprehensible. He came to walk the planet He created.

15 Each day, His heart was broken by the people he came to serve. He did this for nine year old boys. All this is wonderful, mysterious and beautiful. What a gift. Since I do know THIS gift giver, I can say Thank you for a life changing gift. Have you considered Jesus, the One whose heart has been broken and He knows all your hurts and sorrows. Would you like to know Him personally? You can by simply opening up your life to Him and asking Him to come into your life, forgive you sins and be direct your life from this moment on. You can pray a prayer something like this: Lord Jesus, I want to know You personally. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life to You and ask You to come in as my Saviour and Lord. Take control of my life. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Bring peace to my world this Christmas. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.if you invited Christ into your life, thank God often that He is in your life, that He will never leave you and that you have eternal life. As you learn more about your relationship with God, and how much He loves you, you ll experience life to the fullest. God Bless You! XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX December Diary: Sunday 2 nd December: Carol Service at St. Michael s Church at 10.30am Sunday 2 nd December: Family Service at St. Wilfrid s Church at 9.00am. Thursday 6 th December Evening Healing Service at St. Wilfrid s at 7.15pm Friday 14 th December - Turkey, stuffing and Cranberry sauce served in batches at St. John s Hall, Ansley Common at 7pm. Entertainment provided. Please let Maureen know if you wish to join us. Sunday 9 th December Christingle at St. Wilfrid s Church at 9.00am. Sunday 16 th December 9 Lessons and Carols in Candlelight at St. Wilfrid s 6.30pm Tuesday 18 th December Community Dining Club. Annual Christmas Dinner served in the Old Barn at 5.30pm. Monday 24 th December- Christmas Eve Midnight service at St. Wilfrids at 11.30pm. all Welcome! Sunday 30 th December Joint Benefice Service held at St. Laurence Church at 10.30am all welcome. ****************************************************************** A small boy went to church with his Grandma. She knelt down to pray on entry and the little boy knelt beside her. After a few seconds had passed he said: Who are we hiding from Grandma?

16 TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there. The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. And mamma in her kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled down for a long winter s nap. When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer. With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name! Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all! As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky. So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of toys, and St Nicholas too.

17 And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound. He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot. A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack. His eyes how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow. The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath. He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook, when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly! He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself! A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread. He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose! He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight, Happy Christmas to all, and to all a Good-Night! by Clement Clarke Moore.

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19 Children s Corner: Christmas Crackers Ho Ho Ho What do trees do on the internet? They log on.. What did the envelope say to the stamp? Stick with me and we ll go places. What s miserable and covered in custard? Apple grumble. Which cheese do you use to disguise a small horse? Mascarpone. What do you get if you eat Christmas decorations? Tinsillistis! What do you call a one eyed dinosaur? Doyouthinkhesaurus. What do you get if you cross a parrot with a centipede? A walkie talkie What do you get if you cross a turkey with an octopus? Enough drumsticks for everyone at Christmas, What has eight eyes and eight legs? Eight Pirates Why would Snow White make a good judge? Because she is the fairest of them all. Why don t dogs drive cars? They can never find a barking space. Why do dolphins swim in salt water? Because pepper makes them sneeze. What food should you never trust at Christmas? Mince spies. Why are Christmas trees so bad at knitting? Because they keep dropping their needles.

20 A CHRISTMAS VERSION OF 1ST CORINTHIANS 13 If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I m just another decorator. If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not share the true meaning of Christmas, I m just another cook. If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home and give all that I have to charity, but do not demonstrate kindness to strangers, it profits me nothing. If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point. Love stops the cooking to hug the child. Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband. Love is kind, though harried and tired. Love doesn t envy another s home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens. Love doesn t yell at the kids to get out of the way, but is thankful they are there to be in the way. Love doesn t give only to those who are able to give in return but rejoices in giving to those who can t. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Love never fails. Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust, but giving the gift of love will endure. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. ************************************************************************* Who rekindles your light? Dr. Albert Schweitzer said it so well, Sometimes our light goes out, but is blown into flame by another human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this light. Who rekindles your light? Who blows your light into flame when it threatens to flicker out? Sometimes this person is a relative, sometimes a teacher, or a minister, or a special friend. If you need the light of your spirit rekindled during this bleak time, there are those who will listen and care. Likewise, a great and wonderful gift you can give is to fan into flame the spirit that is in another. Rekindling someone s flame is an important task we perform, for few of us can do it alone. The greatest weapon against darkness is, and always has been light. Even one small light is stronger than the darkness. ****************************************************************** * Praying that the Lord will touch your life today, and that you will feel His presence in a new and special way. We pray that you will know His hand upon your life, so no matter what comes your way You may boldly stand with Christ.

21 HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS! YOU ARE INVITED TO HIS PARTY AT ST.MICHAEL S AT 4.00PM ON THE 24 TH! (Please bring an adult with you)

22 A Prayer for the New Year Grant me the strength from day to day To bear what burdens come my way Grant me throughout this bright New Year More to endure and less to fear. Help me to live that I may be from spite and petty malice free. Let me not bitterly complain When cherished hopes of mine prove vain, Or spoil with deeds of hate and rage some fair tomorrow s spotless page Lord, as the days shall come and go In courage let me stronger grow, Let me with patience stand and wait, A friend to all who find my gate, Keep me from envy and from scorn; As shines the sun with every morn On great and low, so let me give My love to all around me live. Lord, as the New Year dawns today Help me put my faults away, Let me be big in little things; Grant me the joy which friendship brings. Keep me from selfishness and spite; Let me be wise in what is right. A Happy New Year! Grant that I May bring no tear to any eye. When this New Year in time shall end Let it be said I ve played the friend, Have lived and loved and laboured here, And made of it a happy year. Edgar A Guest

23 The History of Christingles The idea of Christingles came from a Moravian Church in Germany in The minister, John de Watteville, gave children at the service a lighted candle with a red ribbon around it. This represented Jesus being the light of the world and the final prayer of that first service was "Lord Jesus, kindle a flame in these children s hearts, that theirs like Thine become". The custom went around the world with the church. Missionaries brought the Moravian Church to England in the 1700s. In Moravian churches, the Christingle Service is usually held on one of the Sundays before Christmas. Over the years the symbolism of the Christingle grew into what's known as a Christingle today. Here's what the different parts of the Christingle represent:the orange is round like the world. The candle stands tall and straight and gives light in the dark like the love of God. The red ribbon goes all around the 'world' and is a symbol of the blood Jesus shed when he died for us. The four sticks point in all directions and symbolise North, South, East and West - they also represent the four seasons. The fruit and nuts (or sometimes sweets!) represent the fruits of the earth, nurtured by the sunshine and the rain. The word Christingle could have come from several sources. It might be an 'English' version of 'Christkindl' (meaning little Christ child), the present bringer in some parts of Germany and other European countries, who represents the baby Jesus. It could be a the putting together of the words 'Christmas' and 'ingle'. Ingle is an old Scots word for fire and so that would make it mean the 'Christ Light'. Christingles were made popular in the England by The Children s Society (one of the earliest children's charities in the UK and it has strong connections with the Church of England). The first Christingle service held in the Church of England was in The idea came from John Pensom who was also known as "Mr Christingle"! People didn't think the service would work as making the Christingles would be too complicated - but they were wrong! The custom has spread through to all kinds of churches and is one of the most common and popular Christmas services in the UK, especially among children. Christingles services still normally raise money for children's charities. # / gettyimages.com

24 Christmas Reflection Though money didn't flow as freely as the rain that winter, my parents worked with joyful anticipation to give my brother and me a Christmas present we would never forget. They scrimped for months and then spent more than they could probably afford for a Marx electric train. Then the day before Christmas, a cousin stationed at a nearby military base pulled into the driveway. Opening the boot of his car he lifted out a large heavy box. My brother and I could hardly wait to see what was in it. On Christmas morning we opened it first. Eagerly we unwrapped it and inside was an expensive new electric train set the best we had ever seen. Wow! You had to pull us down off the ceiling.! Then we opened the presents from our parents--another electric train not as flashy as the expensive one our cousin had bought us. Guess who s we played with most? Mum and Dad were hurt. The outlay for an unmarried Air Force lieutenant was nothing compared to the sacrifice my parents had made. But all we saw was the glamour of an expensive train. We counted our parents' gift as merely a nice accessory. Our heavenly Father spends many a disappointing Christmas. Amidst the glittering ornaments and flashing Christmas lights, the hurry and hustle of shopping and wrapping and family get-togethers, parties and presents, trees and turkeys--who really cares about His gift? What gets more attention from us: our Father's gift of life in Jesus Christ or the quickly-wrapped department store gifts from our cousins? Thank you, Father, for Jesus. Thank you for the abundant life that we, His disciples, can enjoy now. Thank you for sending us a most expensive gift-- your own life. Thank you!

25 MORE CHRISTMAS MEMORIES: One memory I have of Christmas Eve, having bought a piano from a lady in Ransome Rd, I had to arrange to bring it to our home in George St. My husband,dad and Uncle all got together and between them managed somehow to carry it to our house, which was situated up a number of steps. Due to the weight of the piano they had to make several stops at which point my Uncle would lift the lid of the piano and attempt to play Christmas Carols in the middle of the road, much to the amusement of passing people and neighbours, who would call out to request their favourite carol to be sung. Eventually put in situ in our lounge, Mum sat on piano stool and played her way through quite a number of Christmas tunes, much to the surprise of us all. Our musical evening set the scene to all who came to our open house. Good food. Good friends, family and neighbours, what more could anyone wish for. May you all have a Christmas full of love and happiness celebrating this special Holy time. Maureen x xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx How many remember the school nativity plays when it appeared that everyone seemed to have a part, there were innumerable angels, shepherds cuddling homemade sheep, wise men with their important gifts held at arm s length in front and of course the three main character s Mary and Joseph and the best doll that came forward to play the infant. The costumes were very basic as we were just getting over the war. The shepherds were all bedecked in tea towels for headresses. I had the honour to be the wise man who presented what on reflection must have been supposed to be a gold ingot, my cloak comprised of one of my mother s brocade curtains and on my head, I jest not, a green tea cosy I still somewhere in the house have a photo to verify the scene As I stood before the manger I spoke the only words I have ever delivered on stage which were those immortal words I BRING YOU GOLD I think back to those happy times in fact memories flood back especially when I see the Angel Gabriel doing her shopping! John C ***************************************************************** Remembering the Baker and the Milkman delivering to us twice on Christmas Eve in Arley village whatever the weather. Enjoy your Christmas. Love Chris xx

26 Trading Standards - tackling doorstep crime Preventing doorstep crime and supporting vulnerable people who have been the victim of rogue traders is a key priority of Warwickshire Trading Standards. In the past 20 months Trading Standards Officers has received over 150 reports of doorstep crime, carried out 17 Rapid Responses, recovered thousands of pounds for victims and prosecuted a number of rogue traders, leading to sentences totalling more than five years imprisonment. Trading Standards Officers employ a wide range of enforcement and awareness activities to tackle rogue traders, including: taking immediate action to tackle rogue traders on a victim s doorstep (rapid response); supporting rogue trader victims with help and advice; setting up No Rogue Trader Zones in conjunction with local communities; removing rogue trader roadside advertisements; training the staff of councils, charities and businesses to spot rogue trader victims and know how to refer them to Trading Standards and raise awareness of how rogue traders operate and how residents and businesses can protect themselves. Rogue traders can have a devastating impact on the lives of their victims, causing enormous emotional distress and often massive financial detriment. Warwickshire Trading Standards gives doorstep crime a very high priority and forms part of the statutory duty under the Care Act If you have any concerns please contact Simon Cripwell, details as shown below. Simon Cripwell..Trading Standards Officer. Warwickshire Trading Standards Service. Communities Directorate. Warwickshire County Council. Old Budbrooke Road Warwick CV35 7DP. Tel: Mob: simoncripwell@warwickshire.gov.uk Web: <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

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29 Children s picture to colour: Baby Jesus born this Day One Cry Awakened the world: One Birth changed history. One Life made all the difference

30 Ansley Church 2018 Christmas tree festival Saturday 8th December a.m p.m. Sunday 9th December a.m p.m. Saturday 15th December a.m p.m. Sunday 16 th December a.m p.m. Saturday 22nd December a.m p.m. Sunday 23rd December a.m p.m. Admission 2. All accompanied children free 60 Christmas Trees Decorated by the community Light refreshments available. In aid of: Church Funds and a donation to Mary Ann Evans Hospice

31 Hiring the Old Barn The Old Barn is a traditional building, refurbished to a high standard and is available to hire at competitive rates. It is ideal for Corporate events including conferences, meetings and team-building days or as a party venue for up to 40 guests. FACILITIES Parking area, Fully-fitted Kitchen, Lounge with tables and seating for 40, Toilet with baby changing and wheelchair access. There are 5 steps to the lounge and kitchen. Disabled access is provided by an electric wheelchair lift. We are always happy to arrange visits to the Barn to view the facilities and to discuss your requirements. Please contact Denise: for more information. <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< A Friend: Each of them know the other will understand, no matter what. Friend s aren t afraid to break the rules, defend each other, and go out of their way. They ve cried together and laughed together, and they have been there when it mattered. No-one can take the place of a friend, just like no-one can take your place in my life. You will always live in my heart just like family.

32 Days Venue Contact No. s Monday Group Old Barn 7:30/Dave Thursday Group Old Barn 7:15/John Services December 2018 Date St. Wilfrid s St. Michael s Date SERVICE Info Family Service 9.00am Holy Communion 10.30am & Carol Service 06,12.18 Healing Service 7.30pm Holy Communion 9.00am Family Service 10.30am Healing Service 9.00am Holy Communion 10.30am Holy Communion 9.00am Family Service 10.30am Midnight service pm Jesus Birthday Party. 4pm Joint Benefice Service a St. Laurence Church.Ansley Testimonies, stories Or memories from years ago we would love to hear from you. Please contact Maureen or John on or send us an on strowgerhouse@btinternet.com Many thanks. NB.