The evening service last Sunday was led by the Rev. Robin Webley. It was Candlemas Sunday, the Sunday nearest to February 2, celebrating the Presentation of Christ in the Temple. The Old Testament reading was Haggia 2: 3-9 and the New Testament reading from Luke 2: 22-35. In his sermon, Rev. Webley spoke of how the presentation of Christ in the Temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary are celebrated at Candlemas. This is the conclusion of the Christmas festival and falls 40 days after Christmas day. According to Jewish law, this was the time a male child was taken to the temple to be presented to the Lord and a sacrifice was offered to God. Women were also purified after childbirth at the same time and it was when candles played a significant part in religious worship. In the Old Testament reading, Luke tells us of Simeon, a religious and devoted man who took Jesus in his arms and blessed God, he spoke those words we know of today as the 'Nunc Dimittis'. He recognised Jesus as from God 'a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for the glory of the people of Israel.' The service this Sunday is Holy Eucharist at 11.15 am. A very warm welcome is extended to all to share this service on the first Sunday in Lent. If you would like a lift to this or any other service at St. James', and this includes Manorbier Newton, Jameston, Lydstep, Skrinkle, as well as Manorbier, please telephone 871604 or 871591 and this will be arranged.
