The Vicar writes………
In my last letter I said my prayer was that during Advent, ‘Christ would remain at the centre’. The Christmas Tree Festival was a huge success, and it was a joy to meet so many people who came to our church to enjoy the event. I could not have imagined how my prayer would be answered in the way it was. The situation with the Chancel Steps was part of a sequence where it was eventually decided the Crib Scene would go under the High Altar, illuminated for all to see. As one entered the church the Christmas Trees did impress, but the gaze was drawn to the East End of the church.
The joy and privilege of knowing Christ, is to share and live the story, with everyone. The pre-school and Manor Park Reception children all gathered round the Nativity, on their knees, as the story of Jesus’ birth was shared with them. Likewise, at the Christingle, the children were engaged by the story-telling using our knitted figures and also the message that was given through the components of the Christingle Orange.
As we enter the season of Epiphanytide (which means ‘manifestation’) our minds then should be drawn to the worldwide mission of the Church. Despite the world’s problems we encounter, we share and live the Christmas story. May Mother Theresa’s words encourage us this year.
People are often unreasonable and self-centred. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway.
If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway.
For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.
Yours in His Service
Paul