Jeffreyston Church was filled with worshippers for the Eucharist service, which started at 11.30 pm on Christmas Eve, led by the Rector, Fr. Paul, who first thanked all involved in the beautiful decorating of the church for Christmas. During singing of the first hymn, the completed Crib was blessed. The readings were Isaiah 9.vv 2-7 and Titus 2.vv 11-14. The Gospel reading was Luke 2.vv 1-14, which tells of the Birth of Jesus Christ. For his sermon, Fr. Paul highlighted verse 7 of the Gospel reading "and she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn." In reviewing the readings, Fr. Paul challenged us to make room for the Saviour in our hearts. Fr. Paul led the Eucharist services in the parishes on Christmas Day. There was good attendance in Reynalton church for the first of these services. Thanks were expressed for the beautiful church decorations, and again the Crib was blessed during the singing of the first hymn. The earlier readings were repeated. Fr. Paul reminded us again to follow the teachings of our Saviour, who was born in Bethlehem. The combined parishes' Eucharist service in Jeffreyston Church on Sunday morning, December 26, was led by Fr. Paul, which was the day of celebration for the life of Stephen, the first Christian Martyr. The readings were 2 Chronicles 24.vv 20-24 and Acts 7. vv 51-60. The Gospel reading was Matthew 10.vv 17-22. In reviewing the readings, Fr. Paul reminded us of the cost of discipleship, both in a local setting and in diverse parts of the World. He said that we have the security of salvation through Jesus Christ. Thanks were expressed to those who contributed to raising the sum of £85 for the Christmas Day appeal for the charity, Christian Aid. Fr. Paul, assisted by Bob Lewis, led Evensong in Jeffreyston Church. The morning readings were repeated. In his sermon, Fr. Paul said that he understood the challenge people faced today in proclaiming their Christian faith. Coming services in the parishes are: New Year's Eve - 10.45 pm service ('In the Light of Christ'), Jeffreyston. Saturday, January 1, 10 am - Eucharist ('The Naming of Jesus), Jeffreyston. Sunday, January 2, 9 am - Eucharist, East Williamston; 10.30 am - Eucharist, Jeffreyston; 12 noon - Eucharist, Loveston; 6 pm - Lessons and Carols, Reynalton.
