Church Bulletin
Happy New Year! I am writing this on the feast of the Epiphany, the time when many Churches in the Eastern traditions celebrate Christmas, with the arrival of the Magi at Bethlehem. Although tradition dictates they were three kings, based on the number of gifts, the bible doesn’t state who they were, whether they were men or women, or indeed how many there were. All we know is that they came from the East following a star to worship a new king. These mysterious visitors not just show us that all are welcome in worship, but also that sometimes God speaks through the unexpected.
It was the warning they received in a dream that meant the Holy family travelled on to Egypt rather than returning home. I have on my mantle piece a small carving of Mary, Joseph and Jesus on that journey to remind me of the story of their flight to Egypt. Of their being helped by strangers from afar. It reminds me that they understood what it was to be unsettled, to feel far from home, to live as a refugee. This year as many of us perhaps feel uncertain and unsettled about what the future with Covid may hold, may we take comfort from this, and by God’s grace be challenged to be open to God speaking in new ways through those different to us, and mindful of those who are far from home and need to know our welcome this year.
This will be the last bulletin in this format as we move to something a little more sustainable going forward. I would like to express my thanks to all those who have contributed since it started. I am sure it has been an encouragement to many over the months of lockdown. From next week we are going to be trialling a new look pews news. It will be coming to your inbox as does the bulletin currently and there will be some paper copies in church. We will continue to deliver to those who are unable to receive it in other ways.
I hope that you have found God’s peace this festive season, please be assured of my prayers as we journey into this New Year together.
Jo
8am Communion
Our 8am Communion service on the first Sunday of the month has now restarted. All welcome.
Building our Faith
Our Building our Faith bible study meetings will not be running for the next few weeks and will recommence on Wednesday 12th January.
Book Club
Please note that the Book Club meeting will take place on Monday 17th January at 7.30pm via zoom, rescheduled from 6th January. If you are interested in being part of the group, or have any questions please contact Sue Masters (07958322026).
Sad News
Margaret Tooby, wife of the Revd Derrick Tooby former vicar of St Andrew’s, passed away on Tuesday 4th January. Our thoughts and prayers are with Nick, Diane, Helen and the family.
Foodbank Donations
To donate to Central foodbank, Sue Barnes is coordinating this so please contact her to drop off food at her house. Contact Sue at susanbarnes1960@outlook.com
If you are unable to give food you can also donate online here: https://www.trusselltrust.org/rddonate-checkout/
| Diary Dates January | ||
| Sun 9th | 8.00am | Parish Communion |
| 6.00pm | Rock Solid | |
| 3.30pm | St Andy’s Service at St Oswald’s Church | |
| Mon 10th | 7.30pm | PCC meeting |
| Tues 11th | 6.00pm | Drama Club at St Oswald’s Church |
| Weds 12th | 10.00am | Wednesday Service |
| 7.30pm | Building our Faith | |
| Mon 17th | 7.30pm | Book Club |
9th January 2022 – The Baptism of Christ
Readings
Isaiah 43:1-7 and Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
Preside & Preach
Jo Joyce
Reader
Susan Barnes
Intercessions
Di Fellowes
Next week
Isaiah 62:1-5 and John 2:1-11
Church Contacts
Vicar: Jo Joyce – 07588 576351 email revjoannajoyce@outlook.com
Churchwardens: Nick Tooby – 07951 925772 and Becky Crowe – 07875 552518
Parish Administrator: Julie Crow – 07756 918847
Parish Safeguarding Officer and Children’s Advocate: Linda Chylinski – 024 7646 8535