The choir, accompanied by Sheila John, welcomed everyone to this year's carol service with the singing of 'Draw near to God and He'll draw near to you'.

The minister, Nanette Lewis Head, said that it was good to be back after her three Sundays absence. After the opening hymn, 'Come, thou long expected Jesus', Anne Maggs and her granddaughter Maddy lit the second candle, representing Peace, on the Advent Ring.

Graham Powell followed this by reading from Isaiah, chapter 9, verses 2-8, foretelling the coming of Jesus.

Nanette asked the young people 'Are you ready yet?' This is the time of year when people are saying that they will never be ready in time. What are we getting ready for? Are we ready on Christmas morning to say 'Thank you Jesus'. The children then left for their worship.

Bron Hurlow read from Luke chapter 2, verses 1-7, and Melanie Walker led us in prayer. This was followed by Sue Powell reading from Luke chapter 2, verses 8-20. The ladies of the choir then sang 'Alleluia, Alleluia to the baby king'. All the congregation joined in the singing of 'O Little town of Bethlehem' and Graham Powell read from Matthew, chapter 2, verses 1-12, the well known story of the shepherds' vision of the angels.

Nanette said that the theme for the day was 'Are you ready?' Isaiah was not popular as he was fond of telling people to repent. Where is God when your dreams lie dashed at your feet! It is then that a voice cries out 'Prepare you the way of the Lord'. God tells the prophet not to condemn His people, but help them. We are the ones to tell the news from the mountain tops. Many will say that they dread Christmas, but God's message is to bring comfort to His people. This journey is with God.

Communion was then served by the elders and the service concluded with the singing of 'See Him lying on a bed of straw'. The blessing was said one to another.

Many thanks go to Nanette for her words of comfort and hope and also to all others who took part in the service.

This Sunday's service will be at 11 am and will be conducted by Rev. Nanette Lewis Head. All are welcome.