December 2010 Editorial

The Heart of Christmas

Christmas is around the corner. Children are getting excited. Shops are filling with cards and gifts in eye catching places. We try and remember last year's present list in the hope we recall what we gave granny so as not to give her more hankies and talcuum powder, or more socks for dad to add to the drawer full he already has! Children are busy practising for their school Christmas plays and carol services, special annual events that always bring pleasure to proud parents and grandparents.

Sometimes we can forget however that Christmas is not just about presents and excess, it's simply about people. While the festivities can be a most magical time, for some it can be a very difficult time; loneliness, family and relationship conflicts, job cuts, financial worries, health concerns; all issues which weigh more heavily at Christmas. we all need to make extar time for others this Christmas and remember the true spirit of the season.

Christmas often symbolises a time to meet with family and friends, eat turkey, rich pudding and induldge in grandma's sherry trifle; but best of all it's a time to remember the birth of Jesus.

So whoever you are, whatever your background, why not put something different on your Christmas list this year? Not something that will cost you money, not something that can be wrapped - quite simply an hour of carol singing and warm mince pies with family and friends. All ages can enjoy the familiar sounds of 'Silent Night' and 'O come all ye faithful' in a warm and friendly atmosphere - there'll be no standing outside in the frost this year! So please come along on Sunday 19th December at 5pm for a truly festive family time, remembering together the very special gift God has given every single one of us - Jesus - the heart of Christmas.

Useful Bible Passage: John 3v16

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."