CATHOLIC CHURCH
St. Teilo's, Five Arches - Saturday Mass 5.30 pm; Sunday Mass 11 am. St. Bride's, Saundersfoot - Sunday Mass 9.30 am. Priest: Monsignor Brian Kinrade (842692).
ST. JOHNS CHURCH
On the first Sunday in Advent, the congregation of St. Johns was joined by many visitors and friends. Christmas is a time of togetherness and celebration. As it approaches, it is good to have families and friends join in worship and prayer. The Rev. Nanette Lewis-Head welcomed everyone warmly with the words of the first hymn, 'Joy to the world, the Lord is come'. The first candle of Advent was lit by Lara, with readings by Mrs. Janet Drogan, Mrs. Marlys Thomas, Rachel and Lara. Then, as Mrs. Sheila Noot narrated the first part of the story of the Jesse Tree, the children of Junior Church began dressing the tree with the appropriate symbols, which had been made by Connor. The children will continue the story over the next few weeks, culminating in the birth of the holy child. During the singing of the next hymn, Angharad and Sydney distributed Christian Aid stars depicting a child of Bethlehem -a reminder of the needs of today's world. It had been good to see the children take part in worship so enthusiastically. Before leaving for Junior Church, they were thanked by Nanette for their very active participation. The congregational reading was Psalm 122, 'I was glad they said to me 'Let us go to the house of the Lord'.' A Psalm of anticipation and gladness. The Gospel readings were from Isaiah, chapter 2, verses 1-5, and Matthew chapter 24, verses 36-44, and were read by Mrs. Mary Squirrel. This is the season of Advent, a time of excitement, anticipation and hope. Nanette reminded us of our own hopes for ourselves, for society and for peace in the world. Particularly at this time of year for peace in Palestine, the birthplace of Christianity, where there is so much unrest at present. Our challenge must be to believe that peace is possible and to strive for it in whichever way we can. Come let us dare to walk in the light of the Lord and prepare for His coming in thankfulness and joy. With the words of the final hymn, 'O come to my heart, Lord Jesus', worship was concluded. The organist on Sunday was Mr. Alan Adams. This Sunday's worship at 10.30 am will be led by the Rev. Nanette Lewis-Head and will include the Sacrament of Holy Communion. All are welcome.
DEER PARK BAPTIST CHURCH
Mr. Gerald Duffett officiated as door steward, welcoming people to the morning service on Sunday. Mr. Gary Emlyn opened the service with a reading from Ruth Ch3v1-13, which formed an introduction to the sermon later preached by Pastor Tom Torok. The first of the Advent candles was lit by Miss Joy Sutton and Mr. Nic Sutton read from Isaiah Ch.9 v.2, 'the people that walked in darkness have seen a great light." This was followed by songs of praise led by Mrs. Cheryl Payne. Mrs. Phyllis Duffett gave out family news, giving notice of dates for future events, such as the Christmas Social, Christmas Dinner and the Carol Service -contact Mr. Bryn Rees on (01834) 8433292 for further information. The children then left for their own service. Pastor Tom Torok continued with the comparison between the role of Boaz as kinsman redeemer to Ruth and Naomi and the role of Jesus as our Saviour and Redeemer. This was first explored in the context of Ruth's part in the story (see Gleanings 31.10.04). This time Naomi's role was investigated. Naomi sent Ruth to Boaz, recognising the saving role that he could play in both of their lives. She saw the way in which Boaz blessed his fields and his workers and had seen his care that she and Ruth should not lack food and shelter. She recognised his goodness and love for others. Ruth approached Boaz quietly and submissively, asking him to cover her with his garment. This meant that she was asking him to marry her and care for her and her mother-in-law. Boaz understood this, but pointed out that there was a closer kinsman who should be approached first. This kinsman was perfectly willing to take Ruth as a wife and add to his portion of land... but when he realised that this also involved taking care of Naomi and that if Ruth bore him a son, by law the land would revert to the child, he found the price was too high! Boaz of course did not count the cost of taking care of them both. Jesus recognises all our needs to find love and security in His Grace. The Holy Spirit is the agent that prompts us to approach Jesus and like Ruth we should do so quietly and with reverend submission. Like Boaz, Jesus did not count the cost of our redemption and He died not for His own interests or just to redeem his own Hebrew people, but to redeem the whole world. Preacher at this Sunday's service at 10.45 am will be Mr. Peter Barton. There will be a prayer breakfast at 7.30 am on Thursday morning. This is held in the vestry at the rear of the church. All are welcome.
LABOUR PARTY
The monthly local branch meeting was held at St. Teilo's Church Hall, Tenby. Chairman Mollie Neate welcomed members and reported on the success of the recent Nos Galan social and entertainment. Members thanked Mollie and Peter for organising such a successful evening at their home. The Westminster trip took place on Tuesday, when Nick Ainger MP looked after branch members attending. Dot Ridley reported that a total of five new members had recently joined the branch. Olive Spence was warmly congratulated by the chair on her excellent fund-raising work on behalf of the constituency. The acting secretary requested that members donating items towards the Christmas hamper, sign what gifts they intended to contribute. The raffle of this bumper hamper would take place at the next meeting (the December AGM). The speaker slot at the meeting was taken by Tony Wales, spokesperson for the General Election Campaign Group. He reported on the October meeting of this group, chaired by Maria Battle. Three main aims were outlined, beginning with a programme of informing the electorate on a wide range of issues that affect most families. Westminster MPs who would be speaking at branch meetings in February, March and April would visit designated areas of Tenby and district on those days. There were many ways in which members, as well as Labour supporters, could help and use their special skills. A useful discussion took place and the campaign group's full report will be discussed at the next meeting after the AGM. Tony Wales was thanked by the chair for his report. The November raffle prize, donated by Gwyneth Thomas, was won by Norman Spence. The next meeting is the annual general meeting of the branch, to which every member is invited. This will take place on Saturday, December 18, at 10.45 for 11 am, at St. Teilo's Church Hall, Tenby. After the business meeting, Nick Ainger MP and Christine Gwyther will give their reports. Members who do not usually attend meetings are strongly encouraged to do so. There is also the attraction of the sherry and mince pie party that follows the meeting. Olive, Audrey, Mollie and Rosemary will be making the pies, and Marjorie and Malcolm donating the sherry, so don't miss this very informal and seasonal get-together. You can also participate in the raffle of the Christmas hamper.
ST. JOHNS FELLOWSHIP
During the month of November, the Fellowship had a varied and interesting programme. Mrs. Brenda Harris told about her recent visit to Nova Scotia, and illustrated her talk with pictures and maps, and shared her experiences during her holiday. Rev. David Jenkins came for a question-and-answer afternoon and members learnt many interesting things about St. Mary's Church and its history. One afternoon they sang some of their favourite hymns, and members recited poems or read excerpts from books they had enjoyed. The minister, Rev. Nanette Lewis-Head, attends each month to give a Bible-based talk, always interesting and thought-provoking, which is much appreciated. Mrs. Eluned Brown is the pianist at the meetings. This session will end on December 14 with a Christmas programme and tea. The Fellowship will re-commence in the new year with a meeting on January 11, at 2 pm, in the church lounge.
CHURCH SERVICES
Services for the Rectorial Benefice of Tenby with Penally, Gumfreston and New Hedges this Sunday (Adevnt 2, Bible Sunday) include: St. Mary's, Tenby - 8 am Holy Eucharist; 10 am Parish Sung Eucharist; 6 pm Evensong and Sermon. St. Nicholas and St. Teilo, Penally - 8 am Holy Eucharist; 4 pm - no service. St. Anne's, New Hedges - no service. St. Lawrence, Gumfreston - 3 pm Service of Light for Advent. St. Julian, The Harbour - closed for the winter. On Monday, Tenby Infants School Welsh Christmas Service will be held at St. Mary's at 6.30 pm. On Thursday, Christmas Praise will taken place at St. Mary's at 8 pm, with the Llanelli Salvation Army Band and Timbrels, Tenby United Churches Choir, Tenby Male Voice Choir and St. Mary's Handbell Ringers. All welcome.
HESED CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
'Do not be afraid' was the message for the first Sunday in advent. The pastor, Rev. Peter Richmond, looked at the virgin Mary's response to the Angel's news that she was going to give birth to the Saviour of the world, 750 years after Isaiah had foretold his coming. Although Mary was perplexed about how this could happen, she believed that "nothing under God's control could be out of control," as the pastor described. Mary's song of praise, known as the 'Magnificat' demonstrates her understanding that the child she was going to bear was already her Lord and Saviour. For someone who trusts Christ, there is no need to fear eternity. Services take place in Carringtons Restaurant, The Atlantic Hotel, Tenby, at 4.15 pm each Sunday. On Sunday afternoon, December 19, everyone is invited to 'Carols at Carringtons', with traditional readings, well known carols and some seasonal refreshments to follow. Telephone 01646 681805 for enquiries.