We held a Taize service in November, and 20 of us enjoyed candle-light, simple prayers, and beautiful chants. Do look out for the next such service and join us.

We have been prayer-walking the whole village during November, praying God’s blessing on every house and all those who live there.

Do come along for Carols Round the Tree at 9.30pm on Christmas Eve. Some poems, music, and carols before you go home to await FC’s arrival.

Churchyard care: if you’d like to discuss how we keep the churchyard looking at its best then you are warmly welcome to come to church for a coffee and a chat on Saturday Feb 6th at 10am when we will gladly add your name to the mowing/ strimming rota for 2016.

A thought from a parishioner: Last year my youngest grandchild, age 5, came home excited after school one day and declared. “Jesus is a woman!” When asked for an explanation he stated authoritatively, “I’ve just seen her on the stage!” I suppose even non-Christians know that a boy was born all those years ago and his influence on our shopping habits and travel plans still thrives, if under a shadow right now. The wise men travelled - instinct and an interest in the science of the day inspired expectations of significance. They had done their shopping and could afford their gifts! Science today finds ever more mystery with each new discovery. Giving always feels so good. Today Christians can be slaughtered for believing the Christmas story. I know the stores will hate me but we can feel good without going to excess or into debt. Wise educational philosopher John Locke said in 1697, “Don’t give them elaborate expensive presents. A bunch of keys will more amuse them!” My grandchildren one year had great fun with the large box the garden chairs came in for their parents. The Wise Men spent well on Jesus. Spending more on the needy we will do the same! We’ll warm as we do it- whatever our beliefs.

Valentine’s Day 2016: You are ALL invited to come to church at 11am on Sunday February 14th for a Wedding Celebration Service. Maybe you were married in one of our churches; or perhaps your children were; or you’d simply like to be in church as a couple to remember a special day in your lives. The services that day will be short and cheerful, with wedding hymns and music, the opportunity to reaffirm the vows you made, and a glass of fizz at the end. Please do make this widely known. I shall try to wear my wedding waistcoat (the diet begins on Jan 1st); have you still got yours? Or your veil?