St Denys Church

Almost unbelievably we are on the countdown to Christmas. The clocks have changed and the dark nights have crept in and it is easy to see our world as a place full of dark things and dark places.

    But wait – there is a light ahead!

    I do not just mean the coming of spring and lighter nights and better weather – as welcome as they may be – I mean, of course, the celebration of the birth of the Light of the World – Jesus Christ!

    The next few weeks are going to be very busy as we all prepare for the festive period – buying and wrapping presents, decorating trees and homes, preparing food and drink and generally running around to ensure we all have a good time.

    But there may be times in this period when we feel alone, lonely, or sad, or just generally unsettled and it is in those times when I invite you to allow Jesus to carry you for a short while.

    And how do you do it? You just ask him using whatever words you want – either out loud or in your head.

    God promises that he loves and cares for every one of us – whether you believe in him or not – and he promises that if you ask him (this is called prayer) then he will give you exactly what he knows is best for you.

    So, this Christmas time, don’t allow the darkness to grow – allow a little of the light in and say a prayer to Jesus and if you feel able then come to one of our wonderful church celebrations and join in with all of us who will be saying “welcome” to the Light of the World and “thank you” for all the wonderful gifts we share in our delightful part of God’s Kingdom here on earth.

    Merry Christmas and God bless you all.    Rev’d Mark

REMINDER – OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

The boxes should be ready by mid-November. For leaflets, information or collection please contact Tricia Freeman on 770855 or Lorna Jones on 770308.  

HARVEST SUPPER AND SERVICE

Many thanks to Meg Benn and all those who helped and donated food to make the Harvest Supper such a successful and enjoyable occasion. Thanks to all who decorated St Denys for the Harvest Festival and to Trevor Foss for his interesting talk. The auction of produce raised £92 for charity.

REGULAR GIVING TO THE CHURCH

With a new Weekly Envelope year starting in November anyone wishing to commit to a regular weekly donation is asked to contact David Johnstone, who organises the St Denys confidential Gift Aid Scheme, for a supply of envelopes.  It is also possible to set up a weekly, monthly or annual Standing Order with the Gift Aid tax reclaiming benefit.

THE REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE

The Collection at on Sunday 13^th November at 10.55am will be sent as usual to the Royal British Legion Poppy Day Appeal.

CHURCHYARD MEMORIALS