Last Sunday, Liz welcomed visitors, including 15 from Barnsley. Rev. Chris Tolley took the special Harvest Festival service. Two-hundred years ago Moses and his followers offered the first of their fruits to God. Today, most of us don't grow our own food, and go to the supermarket to buy things which St. Johns will give to the Patch charity.

Chris asked the congregation to write their talent or gift on the back of the paper with the Bible reading, which Melanie read Matthew 22 v 15-22.

Whilst the congregation was doing this, Chris told a story about a Holy Man who blessed the crops. One year he stayed in a village with a couple whose hospitality was marvellous, and as he left, he asked them what they would like to have from life, and they said to have a life without disputes with each other or neighbours. This happened and their life became very peaceful.

The following year he stayed with a mean couple, who kept the best meat for themselves, etc., and when he left, he asked them the same question as the first couple, but they started bickering amongst themselves, and the Holy Man slipped away. The couple then vowed they would not bicker.

The following year, the Holy Man stayed with them again. They were so different in their attitude, and told the Holy Man that since he had come into their lives, they had been so happy, and his reply was that peace brings happiness.

When you plant the seed in your mind you will enjoy your harvest.

For the sermon, Chris read several phrases and asked for the last word. The congregation knew the right word each time. The phrases were from the Bible, hymns, and Shakespeare.

Particular words set off other things in our mind, said Chris; they are part of our culture. The Pharisees try to trick Jesus into giving a Yes or No answer, but Jesus asked what was the image on the coin and replied, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."

We must understand what that passage meant to the first people who heard it. The word 'image' is used on page one of the Bible, and again - do not make a graven (moulded) image. The Commandments say no imaging, and love God with all ye heart and strength. The Pharisees and the people of that day, would understand that if they loved God totally, there was nothing left for Caesar.

It is important, said Chris, to set aside time to read the Bible and understand its stories. The more you know of the culture, the more you learn about yourself.

The service concluded with 'We plough the fields and scatter the good seed', and the congregation and visitors adjourned to the hall for the extra special Harvest Lunch. The Barnsley group were very appreciative.

Notices: The 11 am service this coming Sunday will be taken by Dr. John Morgan. Please note the elders' tea will be on November 2. The Craft Group meet 2 - 4 pm on Monday, Bible Study will be at 7 pm in the Manse on Tuesday, and the Coffee Morning, with hot Welsh cakes on sale, is Wednesday 10 am - midday.

All are welcome to join in St. Johns activities.