The Third Sunday in Advent, at the threshold of Christmas and a large congregation had gathered for the morning Eucharist. The Rector, Canon David Jenkins, warmly welcomed everyone. He invited Lucy Morris to light the third Advent Candle. The first hymn was 'Thy kingdom come O God'. Bishop Dewi Bridges read the first lesson from the Book of Zephaniah. Israel is encouraged to sing aloud and rejoice, for the 'Lord your God is in your midst, he will renew you in his love'. Mr. Darrel John read the lesson from St. Paul's Letter to the Philippians. 'Rejoice in the Lord always. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything'. Canon David Jenkins read the third lesson. He related the story of John the Baptist. 'I baptise you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming... He will baptise you with Holly Spirit and fire'. Rev. Donald Pope gave the sermon. He asked us to rejoice in the coming of the Lord. Advent is a penitential season full of anticipation and joyful expectation. Advent calls us to repentance, even in these troubled times. It is a privilege and duty to rejoice in the Lord. It is right to have a good time, but some deeds are to be avoided if they fall below Christian standards. To some, advent brings very little joy - the sick, unemployed, homeless, lonely, anxious, poor or bereaved. With the grace of Christ, blessings can be found in any situation: 'and the God of Peace shall be with you'. 'Once more upon thy people shine, And fill the world with love divine'. The offertory hymn was 'Christ is the king, O friends rejoice'. The communion was in the guiding hands of Canon David. He invited all to join with him in communion with our risen Lord. During communion, the choir sang a motet, 'Jesus Lamb of God', written by a talented son of St. Mary's, Mr. Gary Skyrme. The final hymn was 'On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry'. Let us go forth in peace in the name of Christ. On Christmas Eve, the Crib Service will take place at Penally Church at 6.30 pm, also a Carol Service at 11.10 pm, followed by Eucharist at 11.30 pm at St. Mary's Church. The Rectory Car Park will be open for a fortnight from Wednesday, December 20. Anyone wishing to join others for High Tea on Christmas Day at Church House, 4-7 pm, please phone Rev. Michael John. In the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols was held. The choir of St. Mary's gave beautiful renditions of traditional European carols. The congregation joined in the singing of carols, the much-loved favourites of old. The nine lessons were read by Mr. John Cusworth, Mrs. Vera Mitchell, Mr. John Beynon, Mrs. Gwen Nichols, Mrs. Peggy Cole, Miss Jean Williams, Mr. Peter Smith, Rev. David Hammon and Rev. Michael John. Canon David led us in the Grace, before the final hymn, 'Hark the herald angels sing'.
