On Sunday, after the worship times and various other encouragements, the pastor, Rev. Peter Richmond, talked about the time the sun and moon 'stood still.'

Already helped by some timely hail, the Israelites were fighting their enemies well, but they needed more daylight in which to achieve the victory.

In an astounding display of faith, and knowing the power of the God of Israel, Joshua told the sun and moon to stay where they were. The Bible reports that the day lasted the equivalent of two days.

There are theories about how this could have happened - did a meteor strike the earth at that time, causing it to cease rotation, and in its wake a rain of little rocks like hail? No one knows - but there is further evidence that it took place:—

All around the world there are histories and legends about the day the sun did not rise, or when it stayed just above the horizon, for the length of a day. From Mexico, New Zealand and Egypt come stories of the double-length day - or night - according to where in the world they were placed. The Azteks even dated the phenomenon - to the 'year of the seven rabbits!' Another tradition tells of people worrying in case the sun would set the world on fire.

Israel's enemies who inhabited Canaan were worshippers of the sun and the moon. By this extraordinary demonstration of sovereignty, Joshua showed the difference between Jehovah and the idols of the pagans.

Peter said: "I believe in a God who can do the impossible; who can confound the scientists."

Hesed hold their next service this coming Sunday at 6 pm in the Avenue Centre, Greenhill Avenue, Tenby. Visit the website, http://www.hesed.co.uk">www.hesed.co.uk for more information, or telephone 01646 681805.