On a beautiful morning, St. Johns held its service of lessons and carols, devised and presented by Melanie Walker. The choir opened it by singing 'Spirit of the Living God', accompanied by Alan Adams on the organ. The Junior Church welcome was read by Ceri Davis.

Graham chose the first carol, 'O come, all ye faithful.' Because he said it tells the story of Christmas.

Then it was time to light the third candle. This was done by Ceri, Zoe and Garry while reading appropriate passages from the Bible and the congregation sang the first four verses of 'The Holly and the Ivy.'

The ladies of the choir sang a beautiful carol, 'Holy Child', and this was followed by Sonia reading the first lesson, Isaiah, chapter 40, verses 1-5.

Mel asked the children if they were getting excited about Christmas coming. She said that sometimes in the hustle and bustle we forget what Christmas is all about. She read two short poems, one entitled 'The inconvenience of Christmas' and the other 'Alternative Christmas gift suggestions' and asked them which they preferred.

Molly, of the junior church, said that her favourite carol was 'We three kings of Orient are', because it is a joyful sound.

The young people then left to carry on rehearsing for their Nativity.

Graham read from Luke, chapter 1, verses 26-35.

Val Adams's choice of carol was 'Hark! The herald-angels sing', which she said sums up the beginning of Christmas.

Eluned Brown then read from Luke, chapter 2, verses 1-7.

We were treated to a beautiful solo by Bron, 'A ray of hope flickers in the sky.'

Sue Powell read from Luke, chapter 2, verses 8-20.

Eve Williams chose 'O little town on Bethlehem' because of memories of actually being there. Following this, John led the congregation in prayers of intercession.

Ann chose the next carol, 'It came upon the midnight clear', because, for her, it is the perfect carol. During the singing of it, Ann built a flower display.

Mel was the next reader with Matthew, chapter 2, verses 1-12.

Brenda chose the next carol, 'Once in royal David city', because her son used to sing it as a choir boy.

John Mathias read the last lesson, John, chapter 1, verses 1-14.

The service ended with the singing of 'Come and join the celebration', chosen by Sue Broomhead because it is jolly and lively.

After saying the grace one to the other, the choir then sang 'I go in the strength of the Lord.'

Many thanks go to Mel for a lovely carol service, and to all others who took part in it.

This Sunday's service will be at 11 am and will be the Nativity Play. Come along and join us. All are welcome.

Footnote: A successful Christmas coffee morning was held on Saturday when £600 was raised for church funds. Many thanks to all who contributed and supported the event. Special thanks to Castle Brass, who played a selection of festive tunes outside the church.