As well as getting my car through its service and MOT, this week has involved a lot of planning and preparation for future events and projects. Primarily I've been putting together the plans for Advent and Christmas, and also meeting with community representatives to imagine where the church community at St. James can initiate or join in with all that Christ is doing in Barton and Tredworth.

I realise that I sometimes undervalue the importance of this planning work; failing to understand that planning and preparation is not a 'necessary evil' that should be rushed through in order to get to the end product, but that the planning, preparation, and prayer that goes into future events is enriching and life giving in itself, building meaningful relationships and connections. So much of what we gain from working together as a community is not the end product (although it is wonderful when that is 'successful' (however that is judged)) but is to be found in the process of preparation that connects us for days, weeks, and months in the build up to a future event or programme.

Which brings me to Advent, our period of planning and preparation for Christmas. When do you put up your Christmas Tree or decorations? I am a bit of a scrooge on this one and like to delay the decorations going up for as long as possible. Not because I don't love Christmas but to stay in the season of Advent for as long as possible is always so enriching. This season of preparation and reflection on the coming of Christ, past, present and future, gives us a chance to pause amidst the shortening days of winter. In this time we can reflect on what the arrival of the Christ means for us in our lives and how we might wish to respond to the Christ who has come into our world and into our lives. A bit like a service and MOT for the soul before we approach the light of Christ being born into our world at Christmas.

One of the plans for this Advent season is an Advent group exploring the key Advent themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love through music, reflection and conversation. The source of the idea for this 4 week group is Bishop Guli Francis- Dequini's book "Listening to the music of the soul". Although the day and time is yet to be confirmed I hope you will be able to join us.

If there are any requests for prayer or anything you would like to have a conversation about do please get in touch.

With peace and blessings,

Rev Steve

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