On Sunday evening, the fellowship met in the Avenue Centre to light the third candle in the Advent wreath, sing carols of their choice and hear Rev. Peter Richmond as he spoke about the angels' message to the shepherds.

Dirty and lonely wanderers, shepherds took the lowliest role in society. Without any justification, they were regarded as less than trustworthy and their testimony would not have been admissible in court. But they were chosen to be recipients of the angels' special message: "To you...a Saviour is born."

Hesed will not be holding any more services this year, but they will convene on Tuesday evening.

Reminder: A new Christmas song, written by Paddy, is freely available to hear, download and use. The final version features the voices of the fellowship in the background, there is also a backing track, top-line manuscript and lyrics sheet. Visit http://www.hesed.co.uk">www.hesed.co.uk and follow the 'Hesed Music' link.

Christmas campaign: Release International is rallying to the support of Burma's orphans with a Christmas campaign to raise more than £20,000 to help child victims of poverty and conflict. £25 will buy one gift package.

To donate towards the Christmas appeal for orphans in Burma, send it to Release International, PO Box 54, Orpington, BR5 9, or follow the links to 'Suffering Church' and 'This month's sheet' on the Hesed website.

Have a joyful Christmas, everyone, and a peaceful New Year.