The rector, Fr. Paul, led the Eucharist services in the parish on Sunday, the second Sunday after Christmas. Before the service started he referred to the disaster in South East Asia and read out the prayer which had been distributed to all churches by Christian Aid: 'O Lord, no words can ease the pain of the bereaved, the fear of the survivors, the shock of the nations. 'But let our words bring the promise of shelter to the homeless, food to the hungry, healing to the sick for all in Asia this day. Amen'. The readings were Jeremiah 31. vv 7-14 and Ephesians 1.vv 3-14. The Gospel reading was John 1. vv 1-18, where we read of 'The World becoming Flesh'. In reviewing the readings, Fr. Paul reminded us of the love of God and he challenged us to recognise Him in many different situations. Thanks were again expressed to those who supported the Christmas Day appeal for Christian Aid, funds had increased to £100. It was reported that the church had already sent £200 to Christian Aid for the on-going Asia Disaster Appeal. Led by Fr Paul, the evening combined service of Lessons and Carols was a joyful event in Reynalton Church. Isabel Merriman led the singing of the first carol with guitar accompaniment, whilst the church lights were darkened. Others taking part were: Readers - David White, of Reynalton Church; Benjamin James, Reynalton Youth; Janet Williams, Jeffreyston Church; Amy Redd, Reynalton Chapel; Brian Miller, Loveston Church; Thomas Jones, Reynalton Residents Association; Daphne Gwyther, East Williamston Church and Linda Thomas, Reynalton WI. Guitar and solos - Isabel Merriman and Matthew Birch; clarinet - Nicholas Jones; saxophones and trumpet - Ieuan, Steffan and Gethin Davis. After the service, the faithful people of Reynalton Church served up sumptuous refreshments. The collection from this service was to be sent to Christian Aid. Services for this Sunday are: 8 am - Eucharist, Reynalton; 9 am - Eucharist, Jeffreyston; 10.45 am - Family Service, Jeffreyston; 6 pm - Evensong, East Williamston.
