As Christmas begins ever earlier in the shops and in the media, it is increasingly appreciated that in our churches we can stand back at Advent and take time to reflect on what the Christmas message means to each one of us. We are grateful to Jim Laird, Father Andrew and our choir for providing the music for this service which is based on the Great “O” Antiphons, sacred texts that would probably have been known to the Christian community whose graves were discovered during the recent excavations. The words link us with the past but at the same time look forward to the future! Advent music, full of expectation and hope, can often get overlooked as we rush forward into Christmas. Do take this opportunity to stand back and give our celebrations a new perspective.

You will be spoilt for choice this year! - Christmas gifts and decorations, crafts, paintings, greetings cards, festive fare, flowers and books will all be on sale and don’t miss the opportunity to win a Christmas hamper full of seasonal delicacies. There are extensive heritage displays to see, thanks to Peter’s researches, and St. Andrew’s Pantry will be open as usual during the morning for coffee, cake, mincepies and savoury treats in a warm and comfortable setting. Do come and support our church and help keep it open!