Dear friends,

I hope you are well and have enjoyed the beginning of Advent! We had a fantastic first Sunday of Advent with Revd Anne preaching for the first time at St Martin’s, some inspiring advent carols and of course our wreath made its first appearance as we lit the first of our five candles. Both Sam and Anne encouraged us to take time to slow down where we can this advent. To try to find still and prayerful moments as we consider the themes of repentance, judgement and look towards the coming of Jesus at Christmas. Many of us have been doing just that, firstly with a BCP evening prayer and then the following evening at the new Stations of the Crib. For those of you who haven’t yet heard of or experienced Stations of the Crib, I highly recommend it. We take some time each Monday evening during advent to focus in on small parts of the Christmas story. As with Stations of the Cross, which we do at Lent and Easter, there is singing, reflections all focused around artwork to help inspire and contemplate the depths of the emotions, fears and courage shown by the biblical characters in the events that led to Jesus’ birth. Join us at 7:30pm for 50 minutes of prayer, reflection and discussion. If you aren’t able to make a Monday evening then the Advent Quiet Morning will have a similar focus as Revd Anne leads us through reflective stillness 10-12pm Saturday

13th.

There are so many great events coming up, with something for everyone at St Martin’s this Christmas. Our annual Christmas Bazaar is this Saturday, the perfect place to buy some gifts, win stock for your Christmas drinks selection and generally get into the Christmas spirit with our whole community. 10:30-14:00 Saturday 6 December.

Finally, we are really excited for both our carol events, each with a distinct flavour. Singalong Carols provides a relaxed, informal atmosphere to enjoy all the classics over a glass of your favourite tipple (BYOB) with a Christmas quiz and plenty of me for laughter! Friday 12th 7:30-9. Then our ever-so-popular Nine Lessons and Carols offers a beautiful candlelit traditional space to rehear the Christmas story accompanied by our very own choir and followed by mince pies and mulled drinks. 6pm Sunday 21st.

That takes us right up to the week of Christmas, check out our Facebook page for details of our 4 Christmas services, again – something for everyone there!

However this advent finds you, however you feel about this coming Christmas, know that St Martin’s is hear for you. Whether you are in the mood to party or feeling a little lost, bouncing with excitement or experiencing loss, there is room for you with us. Come and reflect, come and be inspired, come and worship and meet your community. Enjoy the traditions and help us make new ones!

All the best,

Revd Phil