There was a rare treat in Jeffreyston Church on Wednesday evening, December 17, when entertained was provided by the Tenby Handbell Ringers, from St. Mary's Church, under their conductor, Dr. John Harrison. They played a variety of Christmas music. Everyone was also invited to join in the singing of three Advent carols, which Dr. Harrison beautifully played on the church organ.
Thanks were expressed to all involved. The total of £188 was raised for Loveston Church funds.
The Rector, Fr. Paul, led the morning service in Jeffreyston Church on Sunday, the fourth in Advent. It was a service of Holy Eucharist with Baptism for baby Lily Mali Williams, who was supported by her parents, godparents and many friends and family. The church was full for the occasion.
The readings, which we were given, were 2. Samuel 7. vv 1-11 and 16; Romans 16. vv 25-27. The Gospel reading was Luke 1. vv 26-28, where we read of the Virgin Mary meeting the angel Gabriel.
In a brief homily, Fr. Paul discussed the importance of Baptism, explaining how the parenting worries of Mary and Joseph were similar to what we experience today. We then witnessed the Baptism of baby Lily Mali, after some water from the river Jordan had been added to the Baptismal water.
Afterwards her parents were handed a lighted candle on her behalf by a faithful church member, Eileen Thomas, to signify the light of Jesus Christ which had been brought into Lily's life that day.
When the Sunday School joined, Fr. Paul was pleased to hand to each child a Christmas gift, which had been kindly provided by Arabella. The fourth candle on the Advent ring was then clearly lit by Lorna, while the congregation sang the first five verses of the Advent Candle Song. We were finally led in the closing prayer by William.
This Sunday, a United Parishes Eucharist will be held at Jeffreyston at 9.30 am.