ST. JOHNS CHURCH

Sunday, January 7, being the first Sunday of the new year, was Covenant Sunday, the day when Methodists renew their covenant with God, following a tradition started by John Wesley. Worship was led by the minister, Rev. Nanette Lewis Head. Following a word of explanation to the children about a covenant being like a promise, the young people of junior church recited their creed.

The singing of the hymn 'As with gladness men of old' marked the end of Christmas and a beginning of the journey towards Easter. The theme of pilgrims sharing a journey of faith, in the company of the risen Lord, sustained by prayer, the gift of God's word in the Bible and the bread and wine of Communion, was the theme of the address. This followed the lesson which was from St. Luke's gospel 'The first Disciple'. Thank you to Mrs. Kay Apps for reading.

The church was saddened to hear of the death following a long illness of Mr. Ebbie Waters. Prayers were said for his wife Hetty and their family. The service of thanksgiving will take place today (Friday) at 11 am.

Worship, following the order of service in the covenant handbook, led into communion which was served in the traditional Methodist manner and concluded with the words Jesus said "Come to me." It had been a good way to begin the new year. Thank you once again to Nanette.

This Sunday, January 14, at 10.30 am, the speaker will be Mr. D. Payne, of Haverfordwest. On Thursday at 10.30 am there will be a meeting for Prayer and Bible study in the vestry, and on Friday from 6 to 7.30 pm the young people's Pilots group will begin their new session. All children aged between 5 and 11 are welcome.