Goodhand in Banbury

So after a few years break I found myself helping out at our Church leading the Christingle service.  A handful of children, including one grandson, and a good number of adults arrived for our 4pm service.  Turning the church on the side, with the seating almost in the round, enabled a more intimate feeling as everyone could see each other. So with traditional songs, prayers, a story and finally the gifting of the christingles we had a meaningful time.  A time to retell the story of God's love for all of creation, as we await afresh on Christmas eve, the birth of Jesus. The moment of Incarnation when the Christ of eternity becomes fully human in the person of Jesus. Who through his life showed how it is possible to live the life of Love, Hope and Peace. Who revealed that God loves everybody without exception. Now this is good news. And it is for those who answer the call to follow, to show in their own lives, the meaning of Incarnation, as we live out this same life, carr...

 In the space of a few days so much has been happening it must mean something important is about to take place. Saturday saw a gathering of Iona Associates and the Thames Valley Iona Family Group in Oxford, where  I led an Advent gathering with Iona style worship, conversation, prayer writing and renewal of friendships. It's always a joy to be part of such groups due to the open nature of people to be prepared to think outside the box.  After a full day it was time for the strictly come dancing final and it was so good to see Chris McCausland win with Diane. But you know when the strictly season is over its nearly....... Then onto Sunday and with two daughters present (its becoming a bit of a new tradition) we were able to enjoy listening to the Milltown Singers where Jill/mum is part of the choir. After all those years of going to see our children in choirs etc it's now their turn to do the watching. The choir was excellent with over 100 in the choir. Then it was the wee...

Intercessions   Advent Sunday Let us Pray Lord God hear now our prayers for our community and world Christ Jesus   may we not be too busy looking for your coming or the fact you are already here that we miss what we need to be doing today if we are to be your followers. May we worship you in all that we do and say so that people may   experience your love for them through our loving. Lord in your mercy hear our prayer In the face of reports and media headlines we pray for your church and especially the Church of England as it works out how it can provide a safe place for people to be. We pray for the survivors of abuse that they might feel truly listened to and that with changes in practice   justice will be be done. Lord in your mercy hear our prayer In an ever unstable world where many conflicts get forgotten about we know you our God do not forget those who suffer. Keep on reminding us to see how the world is interrelated, and that until all are safe no one is. Co...