The Rector, Fr. Paul, assisted by Graham Thomas, led the Midnight Mass service in Jeffreyston Church, Christmas Eve, which was well attended.
During singing of the first hymn, Fr. Paul blessed the crib which had been prepared with the help of the Sunday School. He also thanked all those who had cleaned and decorated the church for Christmas.
The readings were Isaiah 52.vv 7-10 and Hebrews 1.vv 1-4. The Gospel reading was John 1.vv 1-14, where we read of The Word Becoming Flesh.
For his sermon, Fr. Paul took words form verse 14 of the Gospel reading 'And the Word became flesh and dwelt amount us'. Fr. Paul discussed our communications ongoing for Christmas, adding that it is through Jesus that we have the means of our communication with God. He encouraged us to play our part in spreading His message.
Canon Thomas, assisted by Fr. Paul, led the morning Eucharist service on Christmas Day in St. James' Church, Reynalton. Fr. Paul thanked all who decorated the church so beautifully; he also blessed the crib during the singing of the first carol.
The readings were Isaiah 9. vv 2 and 6-7; Hebrews 1.vv 1-12. The Gospel reading was John 1.vv 1-14, concerning The Word becoming Flesh. Canon Thomas wished all a very happy Christmas and New Year.
Fr. Paul was the celebrant at the morning Eucharist in Jeffreyston Church, on Sunday, December 27. The preacher was Rev. Faulkner. The readings were Micah 5.vv 2-4, Colossians 1.vv 11-19. The Gospel reading was Luke 2.vv 15-20, where we read of the Shepherds visiting the Baby Jesus.
Rev. Faulkner highlighted verse 14 of the Gospel reading, 'Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth'.
In an interesting sermon, Rev. Faulkner reminded us that Peace is the keynote of the Christmas message, saying that this leads to an inner store of calm.
Services for Sunday, January 4, are: 9 am - Eucharist, East Williamston; 10.30 am - Eucharist, Jeffreyston; 12 noon - Eucharist, Loveston; 6 pm - Evensong, Jeffreyston.