During Advent we can do many things to help us think more closely about the Christmas Story, connecting our lives to that of the birth of Jesus and that very first Christmas. We may use Advent candles, Advent calendars, Advent Bible Study orwe may want to enhance others lives with acts of kindness. Many of us will have already have been buying presents for our loved ones, or thinking about where is the best place to give generously this Christmas.

I am hopeful that you may consider giving generously of some Christmas food for the Pop-Up shop in Sawbridgeworth – to help families be able to celebrate well this Christmas.

These are my suggestions:-Week 1 We focus on bring soft drinks for that week.Week 2 Stuffing, gravy products, cranberry sauceWeek 3 Christmas puddings, mince pies, Christmas biscuits, toiletries

All donations need to be in St James church by December 12th to make the bags that will be given out from the Pop Up shop. Alternatively, you may want to make a donation to the Pop Up Shop at:-Barclays BankSort Code 20-36-98Account Number 60798029Name of account: Sawbridgeworth Congregational ChurchUse ref: Pop-Up shop

This will call us to sacrifice some of our wealth but it will benefit others who are struggling. St James church is open every day from 9.30 am to 4.00 pm for you to bring food and place in the green box provided, and we will make sure this food getsto the Pop Up Shop.

Thank you, Rev Alison