It was a joy last Sunday to be lighting the second of our Advent Candles (the ‘Bethlehem’ candle focused on ‘hope’. In the morning at Swithun’s, Martyr Worthy, we herd the great readings from Isaiah 40 and thought of John the Baptist announcing the Good News that God was now coming to visit his people in Jesus—a Truth to be treasured and a Person to be welcomed.

And then in the afternoon, the church of St John’s Itchen Abbas was full of individuals and families—all creating their own Christingle under the guidance of James Greig. It was so lovely to be able to start singing our the first Christmas carols by candlelight. Thanks you so much to James, ably supported by Sara Noble and Tim Clapp and the ‘orchestra of young musicians’, to all they did to make this time together so special.

Christmas is coming soon!

Revd Peter