A beautiful morning and a large congregation had gathered to worship on the Fourth Sunday of Easter. As well as the usual worshippers, St. Mary's was pleased to welcome visitors amongst who were members of the Guild of Town Criers. The service was in the care of Rev. Andrew Davies. He warmly welcomed all to the morning Eucharist, especially the Town Criers in their colourful outfits and tricorn hats. The service began with choir singing 'God Liveth Still.' The processional hymn was 'Praise my soul the King of heaven.' This was followed by the morning's readings. Mr. Tony Evans, of Nailsworth, Gloucestershire, the chairman of the Guild of Town Criers, read the first lesson from the Book of Genesis, relating the story of Noah. Mr. Bill Malin, of Alcester, Warwickshire, and president of the Guild, read the second lesson from the Acts of the Apostles. The third reading from the Gospel of John was read by Rev. Dennis Baxter and he went on to deliver the sermon. "It is apt that we have the Town Criers with us today, for they like us - the clergy, herald the news, whether good or bad, to everyone." Dennis described the Church of God as devoted to apostolic teaching, sharing fellowship, the breaking of bread, always together, never apart and in awe of God. Everything should be shared and nothing owned. The Church of Jesus Christ should be filled with joy. The offertory hymn was 'The King of love, my shepherd is.' During the communion at the High Altar, the choir sang 'Cantate Domino.' The recessional hymn was 'O Praise ye the Lord.' The Mothers' Union will hold a coffee morning at Church House tomorrow (Saturday) from 10 am - 12 noon. A St. George's Day service will take place at St. Mary's on Sunday at 3 pm.