Dear friendsI write this on "Black Friday" and heard on the news this morning that millions of pounds will be spent in this country between now and Monday as people desperately seeking bargains shop on line or in person. It's easy to get caught up in the panic - will I be ready, will this bargain help, is there enough time??? I must admit that in the season we're in, with so much financial hardship, I completely understand the need to find bargains where we can. I also know that Christmas is about giving, celebration, and special time with family and friends. I lament the anxiety and fear that is caused by the expectation of so much "stuff", and pray for all in our parish who are dreading the financial additional burden of Christmas. We can respond to the need for help in our generosity in donating financially to the cost of the Christmas hampers, that will go to 21 families this year. We can also respond by becoming a "Secret Santa" to ensure every child in each of those families receive a lovely gift. Details on how to be involved with each of these is on our emails, in flyers in church, on our social media - or you can find out by emailing Beth at [email protected].In amidst this, is the reminder of where we are in our church year. This week it's Christ the King - a bit like New Years Eve. The end of a church year and the start of the new, in Advent. It's the opportunity to consider all that has been, and to hear from our lessons on Sunday about whether we're ready. Not for Christmas, and the necessary trappings that Black Friday suggests are essential and need to be bought in a panic, but for the discovery again of who Jesus is, and the praying, again, for the coming of his kingdom.We watched a beautiful film on Wednesday in church, where we saw the end of the story in many ways, portrayed through the character of Mary Magdalene. It was powerful and moving, a reminder of the difference it made to know Jesus, and the inevitable response to be involved in continuing his story. This is where we are, I suggest, at the end of the church year, and anticipating Advent. We know the end of the story, so how can we respond to be involved in continuing the story?Advent groups begin next week, with the theme of "the secret identity of Jesus". There are three different times of group that you can engage with - do please try to come along and step outside of the other suggested preparations for Christmas, for a time of internal, soul-full preparation.You are invited to be part of our acts of worship this weekend - 8.30am our traditional Holy Communion, and 10.30am All together communion where the whole church family gather together.Come and celebrate the church's new years eve - and get ready to get ready.With every blessingBecky