The service on Sunday was the 'Gift Service' for Health Help International, a charitable organisation which St. Johns has supported for many years. A link was established with the organisation, which supports the under-privileged of Zambia and India, through Mr. Ron Prosser, its founder. Now the 'Gift Service' has become an annual event. Gifts of money are placed in little colourful bags and hung on a Christmas tree. The money is then counted by the children and gifts chosen from the HHI catalogue. This year, over £360 was collected.

The Introit was sung by the singing group, accompanied by Mrs. Sheila Noot. Lara read the young people's opening, welcoming everyone to worship, which was led by the Rev. Nanette Lewis Head. The theme on the second Sunday in Advent was to 'Prepare Ye the way of the Lord'.

The Advent candle was lit by Mrs. Hefina Lewis, Mrs. Melanie Lewis and Molly, who also read from Malachi, chapter 3, verses 1-4.

Mr. Lew Day read from, Luke chapter 1, verses 68-79. The New Testament reading was taken from Philippians chapter 1, verses 3-11, 'Paul's Prayer for his Readers'.

'Prepare Ye the way of the Lord'. These words formed the basis of Nanette's address.

"Discovering Advent is like coming home," she said. "When Jesus is affirmed as Lord of our lives."

We must not take a short cut to the manger, however. What gifts do we desire, love, hope, peace of mind? In Advent, we walk towards God. Christmas comes as a gift to be received in faith. Let Christmas be a time when we prepare the way for the Lord.

After prayers of Intercession, Holy Communion was shared and the children returned for their Blessing.

To conclude worship, the Grace was said and the singing group sang the final hymn.

Worship this Sunday at 11 am will be a carol service led by Mrs. Melanie Walker. Everyone is welcome.

Tomorrow (Saturday), there will be a Christmas coffee morning, including a cake table, various Christmas stalls, a raffle and the now famous Welsh cakes. This year 'The Castle Brass Band' will also be playing, so please come along and join in the fun.

On Tuesday, December 15, at 7 pm, the annual 'Light up a Life' service will be held in the church. This is a special service in aid of Ty Hafan. Please come along, everyone is welcome.