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Advent, the time leading up to Christmas, is a time of ‘restless change', to borrow a phrase from one of Colin Gibson's hymns.
There's the restlessness of transition for those finishing school or university and looking towards new jobs or facing unemployment.
There's the political and social uncertainty associated both with changes to the parliamentary environment following the general election and the consequences of continuing global economic recession. There's the restless wind - hot, dry disturbing northerly gales or brisk, bone chilling southerlies. There's the disorientation of a season that is both one of the most joyful times of the year and the most stressful. There's the restless hope and optimism that demands that new things can and will happen, that glimpses of the holy may be seen in the ordinariness of daily life, that God is made real in human existence. There's the restless longing for love and tenderness and warmth and human community that is so much a part of the Christmas story. Feelings are stirred up, past sorrows revisited, old dreams revitalized, friendships renewed. Our gaze is both inward and outward. Inward at our own needs and longings, and outward towards a world that is itself restless and changing. Part of our response to a restless world, our contribution to peace and justice, is through the CWS Christmas Appeal. The theme ‘Share the Care' is both global and personal. So may we May all the blessings of Christmas be with you and those whom you love. Lynne Frith,
Service times for Christmas and New Year: 24 December - Christmas Eve Family Service - 7:00pm
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