A Message from Revd Andrew Birks After much prayer and reflection, I want to share with you that I have accepted the role of Senior Chaplain to the Bishop of Peterborough, and will therefore be stepping down as Vicar of Melbourn and Meldreth later this spring. This has not been an easy decision. Serving these parishes has been one of the great joys and privileges of my ministry. You have welcomed me into your lives, trusted me with your stories, and worked with such generosity and imagination to help our churches grow in faith, hope, and love. I will always be grateful for the kindness, humour, and resilience that define these communities. The new role will involve supporting the Bishop in pastoral, liturgical, and strategic ministry across the Diocese of Peterborough. It is a calling that has emerged over time, and one that I approach with both excitement and humility. Yet leaving Melbourn and Meldreth will be deeply bittersweet, and I will carry you with me in prayer as I take this next step. Details about my final Sunday and opportunities for us to say our goodbyes will be shared soon. In the meantime, please keep the parishes, the Churchwardens, and all who will guide the vacancy process in your prayers. Thank you — for everything we have shared, for all we have built together, and for the countless ways you have shaped my ministry. It has been an honour to serve among you. However, until I leave, it is very much ‘business as usual’, and a commitment from me that I will help to prepare the Benefice as much as I am able for the time when I have moved on. Andrew+
Something wonderful is about to happen. The Saviour of the world is about to be born. But the grumpy owl who lives in the barn just wants to be left alone... Will the animals help our owl to discover the Joy of Christmas? You're invited to find the joy of Christmas, too. Learn about the story of Jesus' birth and what this can mean for you today. There are thousands of local Advent and Christmas services and events at AChurchNearYou.com.
Light a Candle, Share a Prayer: Christmas Eve at All Saints 🕯️ This Christmas Eve, All Saints Church in Melbourn invites you to take part in a beautiful tradition of light and remembrance. As Midnight Mass begins, seven-day candles will be lit—each one representing a prayer, a memory, or a heartfelt intention. Whether you wish to honour a loved one, pray for someone in need, or support a meaningful cause, this quiet act of devotion offers a powerful way to connect with the spirit of the season. Each candle costs £5, with proceeds supporting the church’s ministry and mission. To order a candle, simply contact Revd Andrew at andrew.birks@elydiocese.org. Let your light shine this Christmas—one flame, one prayer, one moment of peace
From Ely Cathedral:It is with great sadness that we share the news of Canon Jim Garrard who died unexpectedly on Monday 8 December.Jim had been the Canon Precentor at Ely Cathedral since 2008. He will be sorely missed by all the staff, the choirs and the wider Cathedral community.Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be shared in due course. Please do keep Ros, Richard, Sophia, members of Jim’s family and friends in your prayers at this time.If you wish to send cards or messages, please address them to the Chapter House at Ely Cathedral and they will be passed on to Jim’s family.May he rest in peace and rise in glory.The Very Revd Mark Bonney, Dean of Ely
