Dear Friends,

As I write this I am aware of a very busy time approaching us quickly. Christmas is not very far away and that means, for Christians, celebrating the season of Advent, and a time set aside to prepare ourselves, thoughtfully, for the celebration of the birth of Jesus.

It also means the ending of Peter Beale’s ministry among us, as of December 11, and structural changes to the ways the congregations in the area relate to each other. These changes may bring some anxiety; change often does, yet we can only move forward trusting in God, each other and using the best wisdom we can find.

I wonder if Christmas will produce as much change and anxiety for us, or will it be a time of rushing, stress and annual routine. It would not be a bad thing if Christmas made us anxious about the uncertainty of what the birth of Jesus might do to us. It might even question our lives, our values and our own priorities in life. It might influence the ways we relate to each other.

This month is also a time to reflect on our financial giving to the church. Sometimes we can see that as putting money into the plate and then it goes into supporting the institution. As I receive the offering each week, to offer this to God, I talk about the ongoing work of the Gospel, about hope and healing and new beginnings

Financial giving is about supporting the ministry of the Gospel, that we all share in and are a part of. Our giving tends to reflect our priorities in all the demands upon our finite resources. I continue to be impressed with the many areas of ministry the congregation is involved in reflecting the wonderful commitment and giftedness of so many people.

Finally, I can report that the Pastoral Care Training has been continuing and the participants talk about the benefits for them, the Meet and Eat Groups have been enjoying each other’s company, getting to know each other at a deeper level and the Baptism and Confirmation Class is going well with eight members of various ages, engaging in issues of faith and membership.

The next edition of this letter (for News First) will be written by Peter Beale as his last opportunity to do this after five years of ministry in this place.

Yours in Christ,

Chris