Sunday 30th November 2025

A warm welcome to the First Sunday of Advent—that curious moment in the Christian year when the church gives us both a candle and, rather mischievously, a wake-up call. Advent doesn’t begin with cosy nativity scenes but with the gentle tug on the sleeve that says, “Stay awake—something wonderful is drawing near.”

Our readings this week set the tone beautifully. In Isaiah 2:1–5, we glimpse that great mountain of hope where nations gather and peace is forged. And in Matthew 24:36–44, Jesus reminds us—quite firmly—that God’s timing isn’t ours, and so the wise thing is simply to live alert, expectant, and ready.

I’ll be preaching on this theme of watchfulness—why it matters, what it asks of us, and how Advent helps us look for God in the ordinary. It’s a perfect Sunday to invite friends or family: Advent has a way of opening hearts, even if we’re not entirely sure what we’re looking for yet.

Every blessing, Mark

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