February sees the days getting longer and there are signs of new life beginning to emerge and we are reminded that light and life are never far away.

At the beginning of February, the church celebrates Candlemas or the Presentation of Christ in the Temple remembering when Jesus was 40 days old, and his parents took him to the Temple in Jerusalem, where an older man, Simeon, and an older lady, Anna, recognised him as the saviour promised by God – Jesus, the Light of the World.

We will be lighting candles during our service. The flame of the candle represents hope, warmth and life, even in the midst of darkness and uncertainty and shines His light into a world that longs for healing and peace.

All are welcome at St Guthlac’s church for the Candlemas service and stay for refreshments afterwards!

Every Blessing to you all

Rev’d Jane Wheatley and Rev’d Jenna Dearden