Melanie and Jim Walker, with the young musicians of the junior church, played before the start of the service. The choir, accompanied by Sheila John, commenced with an Introit and Molly read a welcome. The service was produced by the worship group, led by Carol Thomas.

The first hymn was 'The holly and the ivy' of which only the first two verses were sung. Each week through Advent, an extra verse will be added.

It was time for the first Advent candle which was lit by Sheila Noot, accompanied by Lara and Rachel while reading appropriate verses.

Carol introduced the large jigsaw she had on the platform and the box of pieces which had to be fitted on. She said that she loves jigsaws and enjoys fitting all the shapes together.

The church is like a jigsaw puzzle with all the organisations using it and fitting in together. The young people placed in a few of the pieces, each one representing an organisation using the church buildings. They then left to pursue their own preparations for Christmas.

Marilyn Davies read from John chapter 14, verses 1-14, and Mark chapter 12, verses 28-31.

Referring to the reading from John, Carol said that God is saying that there is room for everyone in his house. St. Johns is made up of many parts, including churches which have joined with them. St. Johns is part of the community as are other churches, but they all join together in the worship of the one God.

Representatives then went to the jigsaw to insert pieces of the puzzle in the name of their organisation. Carol wrote all the names on a large board until there were so many that she ran out of space. It is truly amazing how many people from Welsh cake makers to choirs, from all over the county, come together in St. Johns. The board was full and still names kept coming. Finally, they were left with some blank spaces in the jigsaw which was forming a picture of St. Johns and it was said that those represent the future and things still to come. Sometimes we do not understand the jigsaw of life, but God does. He has the complete picture.

Gwen Nicholl led the congregation in prayers of intercession. Then during the singing of the last hymn, the young people returned and joined with Mel and Jim to play as the congregation left the church.

Many thanks go to Carol and the worship group and particularly the music group for their participation in the service.

This Sunday's service will be at 11 am and will be conducted by the Rev. Nanette Lewis-Head. It will be the Gift Sunday where HHI is the designated charity. Everyone is welcome.