Today is the first Sunday of Advent. Advent is a season which is all about preparing ourselves - spiritually and materially - for our celebration of Christmas. In church, we light the candles on our Advent wreath, marking the passing of the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Advent is a time when we stress hope, anticipation, expectation, and eagerness. We remember the hope that people had for a Messiah who would transform our world - a saviour who came in an entirely unexpected way, as a vulnerable, speechless, needy baby in a manger in Bethlehem. We also hope for the transformation of our present world.
Our regular worship in our three churches will reflect these themes. We also have two special services during this season
First, our parish's Advent Carol Service takes place at 6.00pm on Sunday 1st December at St Alban's Church. This is a chance to listen to some beautiful choral music and take time to reflect and pray.
Second, our Christingle Service takes place at 4.00pm on Sunday 15th December at St Dunstan's Church. Helping to raise funds for the work of Children's Society, this family-orientated service is all about bringing a light of hope into our world.
