The Vicar's "Two Penn'orth"
Thoughts for Christmas 2021
Who knows what Christmas will bring us? Who knows what Christmas will bring us in terms of Covid restrictions and I suppose all of us are a little bit concerned about this new variant that is spreading around the world.
That said, within the limits of what we are allowed, the church has certainly seen the return of some of our activities. A couple of weeks ago we held our first “Messy Church” in almost two years and what a joy it was to see the children pour into our church - and what fun they had! A great “thank you” must go out to all our helpers, who gave up their time to create such a happy space.
Our Wednesday “Mums and Tots” group has returned and is increasing in numbers - it is a joy to see the children and adults enjoying their time together. I am reminded of the words from James 1:2-4 “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
I was also delighted to welcome the staff and children from Holy Trinity School back to church for their Christmas Carol service. This year they did it twice - morning and evening - and what a joyous occasion this was to be part of: Well done Holy Trinity school!
Last week we also held our Christmas lunch, and what a great event it was for all. Although there were fewer people because of restrictions, it still helped us to enjoy the company of each other.
There is no doubt that despite all that Covid has done it has not destroyed the spirit of the church community. It is said that when life is difficult people always give of their best, and rise to any challenges before them. Scripture informs us in 1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” This is true of St Hildeburgh’s as we start a new journey in the coming year. We have much work to do especially as we have, like all churches, lost income over the last few years, but we will get through it - so far so good … or so I thought! Until this new Covid variant appeared in the last few weeks, forcing us to rethink some activities.
Sadly, we have decided to cancel the Christmas Eve nativity service as there would have been too many people to be safe. However, we will continue with the Nine Lessons and Carols and other planned services which attract manageable numbers.
It is good to see the church come to life for Christmas. As the Christmas trees appear and the big tree is decorated, it certainly gives me a feeling of optimism and expectation as we await the Christ child. As it says in the Old Testament book of Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Please do hold in your prayers those who will struggle this Christmas became of loss of a loved one, loss of employment, loss of somewhere safe and warm. Spare a prayer too for the many travelling refugees who find themselves in difficult circumstances. I like the idea, as many people do, of donating to a charity of your choice at Christmas as a way of helping others.
I hope you have a peaceful Christmas whatever the rules are, and that you can see friends and family and enjoy time together.
That said, within the limits of what we are allowed, the church has certainly seen the return of some of our activities. A couple of weeks ago we held our first “Messy Church” in almost two years and what a joy it was to see the children pour into our church - and what fun they had! A great “thank you” must go out to all our helpers, who gave up their time to create such a happy space.
Our Wednesday “Mums and Tots” group has returned and is increasing in numbers - it is a joy to see the children and adults enjoying their time together. I am reminded of the words from James 1:2-4 “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
I was also delighted to welcome the staff and children from Holy Trinity School back to church for their Christmas Carol service. This year they did it twice - morning and evening - and what a joyous occasion this was to be part of: Well done Holy Trinity school!
Last week we also held our Christmas lunch, and what a great event it was for all. Although there were fewer people because of restrictions, it still helped us to enjoy the company of each other.
There is no doubt that despite all that Covid has done it has not destroyed the spirit of the church community. It is said that when life is difficult people always give of their best, and rise to any challenges before them. Scripture informs us in 1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” This is true of St Hildeburgh’s as we start a new journey in the coming year. We have much work to do especially as we have, like all churches, lost income over the last few years, but we will get through it - so far so good … or so I thought! Until this new Covid variant appeared in the last few weeks, forcing us to rethink some activities.
Sadly, we have decided to cancel the Christmas Eve nativity service as there would have been too many people to be safe. However, we will continue with the Nine Lessons and Carols and other planned services which attract manageable numbers.
It is good to see the church come to life for Christmas. As the Christmas trees appear and the big tree is decorated, it certainly gives me a feeling of optimism and expectation as we await the Christ child. As it says in the Old Testament book of Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Please do hold in your prayers those who will struggle this Christmas became of loss of a loved one, loss of employment, loss of somewhere safe and warm. Spare a prayer too for the many travelling refugees who find themselves in difficult circumstances. I like the idea, as many people do, of donating to a charity of your choice at Christmas as a way of helping others.
I hope you have a peaceful Christmas whatever the rules are, and that you can see friends and family and enjoy time together.
Your Friend,
Rev Paul,
Vicar of Hoylake
Rev Paul,
Vicar of Hoylake
