Journeying with God
2025 is almost over. 2026 lies before us. Epiphany is the first major festival of the 2026 calendar. We see the arrival of the wise men as they kneel before Jesus, presenting him with gifts which will reflect his life; gold for the King; frankincense for the presence of God; myrrh for the suffering to come. They were costly, precious gifts. Most of the time we think of the wise men and the gifts without really reflecting on their journey from the East. What portents caused them to set off in the first place? It would have been a difficult journey, not only in terms of travelling but also when they met with Herod. At once they felt something was not right, and they were right as God sent a messenger to tell them to return home by a different route.
Our journey as Christians is a long one, a lifelong one! We too are called to set off on the journey, through our baptism and confirmation. Then we start to deepen our faith, through worship, bible study, gazing into the crib at Christmas time at the joy of a new-born baby. We then follow Jesus very closely as he begins his ministry and in Jerusalem where he is crowned in the most awful of ironies and then reveals his true light to us at the resurrection.
In amongst all that we learn from Jesus, we have to learn from one another. That will mean doing so through the times of wonder and joy but also the challenges and difficulties of life. It will mean laying down somethings and taking up new. The prophet Micah tells us: “He [God] has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
I pray that during 2026 we will walk nearer our God, nearer one another and pour blessings on all those whom we meet in Jesus’s name.
With blessings for 2026.

Leasingham Community enjoyed a series of events along the Advent journey to Christmas starting with the Advent Living Calendar which began on December 1st at the Duke of Wellington public house with their switch on of their outdoor, indoor and garden light show. The school choir sang and festive food was served. St Andrew's had a stall along with other village organisations and was well supported.

Leasingham choir and members of the congregation sang carols as part of a Festive evening at the Duke of Wellington on a Friday evening in mid-December when members of the public gathered to join in and enjoy festive food and have a joyous time.

Our coffee morning was particularly well supported with a variety of stalls to peruse which led to a very festive social gathering of many friends and acquaintances. A big thank you to all who supported the event and those who kindly volunteered during it helping out.
The next coffee morning will be on Saturday January 10th between 10.00am and 11.30am in Leasingham Village Hall with a tombola, raffle, homemade cakes, books and jigsaws for sale.

Our Carol Service was enjoyed by all those attending as was the Crib Service which was a totally joyous celebration with many attendees taking pleasure at looking at our new Nativity figures carved from olive wood sourced from Bethlehem and were blessed by Rev Rosemary.

Leasingham Church was beautifully decorated and many thanks go to Manor Farm Shop for their kind gift of the Christmas Tree which some of the Children from St Andrew's school helped decorate after their St Andrew's School Christmas Service. Thanks also to the four flower arrangers who made the Church look so special with their decorations and arrangements.

If you have ever wondered which Bible Passages you could be reading throughout the week check out our 'Your Bible Is Not Just For Sunday' a weekly recommendation this week we are looking closer at 'New Beginnings'. To find out what readings are recommended check out the attachment and be inspired by God's word.

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You are always invited to join us each week for worship, praise and fellowship.
4th January - Morning Praise
11th January - Morning Praise
18th January - Morning Praise
25th January - Holy Communion

Benefice Community – All Sorts Back on the 12th January 2026

The Benefice all age outreach offering continues on Mondays at 2pm in the Winchelsea Centre Ruskington. The space is designed as a time for fellowship, activities, and conversation for people of all ages. Please come along and enjoy time with friends and perhaps make some new ones. You are always welcome.

Come and joy us for our monthly Coffee Morning, enjoy a warm cuppa and a slice of home made cake

Hi everyone,

Messy Church is back on Saturday teh 10th of January at 2pm in the Winchelsea Centre Ruskington. We will be exploring water and light through bible stories and activities. We will of coursehave our communal meal at the end. I hope that you will be able to join us. Please share the details with your friends if you think they might want to join with us. The poster is attached.

If you are able please let us know if you plan to come along. It helps us in our planning for catering.

With every blessing. Reverend Al and the Messy Team.

Come and join us for our family Service, we sing modern Christian songs, enjoy activities and refreshments. This service is for all ages both young in age as well as those young at heart.