January 2026

One of the highlights of our Christmas season was the Blue Christmas service. A service for those for whom the season is not a joyful one. We, as a church really welcomed this candle-lit service, as we were mourning one of our dear Stewards, Toyin Akinwale, and also another dear friend of the church. There was not a dry eye, as we hung our blue baubles in remembrance.

Our New Year began with, "After the Rush" a Ladies Retreat day, which was held at Downley Methodist Church. It coincided with Epiphany (the Christian church's celebration of the wise men visiting Jesus). The retreat day was attended by women from Rev. Rachael Prince's four churches, and was led by Rachael. We started with a time of worship, followed by poems, meditation, music, free time, art and craft, solitude, and a beautiful lunch all prepared for us. We asked God to bless us on our journey into the New Year and for rest during that day to 'put down' all that we carry in the way of burdens, concerns and worries.

Our Coffee Mornings continue on the second Saturday of the month at 10.30 a.m. All are welcome! Do come along, we have many ladies and the occasional gentleman from the village who come to enjoy a chat over coffee, and cake. We have demonstrations, travel talks, board games and many more activities planned. We are planning a Lent Lunch for the meeting on 14" March, which will on that occasion start at 12.00 noon. There will be no specific charge for the lunch but a box will be put out for donations.

Easter Services: Easter Sunday 5" April, service starts at 10.30 a.m.

Maundy Thursday, 2 April, a supper starting at 7p.m., followed by a meditative service at the table, to include Holy Communion.

We are planning a new website, which is long overdue.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy New Year.

©Geraldine Nelson, Senior Steward