The worshippers, including some visitors, were greeted at the door on Sunday morning by Mr. Dene Hardwick, who also welcomed them inside the sanctuary and prayed before Miss Hattie Dortez lit the three Advent candles and Miss Bethan Emlyn read John's Gospel chapter 3, verses 19-21. Mrs. Cheryl Payne introduced the carols and hymns along with songsters Mrs. Myra Hopkins and Miss Sue Lordan. Instrumental support was provided by Mrs. Ann Pattenden on the clavinova and Mr. Arran Török on the drums. Mrs. Phyllis Duffett (deacon) led the time of Open Prayer, before Pastor Tom Török gave the Family News, which included a service on Sunday, December 26 (Boxing Day) at 10 am in the Church Hall and the Holiday Club from February 14-18. Before the pastor started his sermon on Barnabas the Encourager, he passed around a mug bearing an inscription 'It's difficult to soar like an eagle when you are surrounded by turkeys'. He read Ezra chapter 4, verse 4; Acts chapter 4, verse 33; chapter 9, verses 26-27 and chapter 11, verse 21. Tom admired the care given to oil-damaged birds found struggling on the beach. Sometimes weeks pass before they can fly. Encouragers give such birds the ability to fly. In contrast, he alluded to Nehemiah who endured opposition aimed to discourage his helpers trying to rebuild the broken walls of Jerusalem. He exhorted Christians to be like Barnabas who encouraged Paul and Mark. Encouragers have vision to see opportunities that others miss, whereas discouragers cripple by their criticism and simply bring those around them down to their low level. After singing 'Come and celebrate', Tom closed the service with the benediction and the Grace. Worshippers could visit the Share and Care Corner before going down to the Church Hall for tea or coffee. At this Sunday's service, Mr. Gerald Williams, a former tennis commentator for the BBC, is the preacher at 10.45 am, and at 6 pm Jan Jensen will conduct a candlelight carol service. Also each Thursday at 7.30 am there will be an early morning prayer meeting before breakfast at 8.30 am. Anyone wanting more details can make enquiries by telephoning Tenby 845838.
