Journeying with God
2025 is almost over. 2026 lies before us. Epiphany is the first major festival of the 2026 calendar. We see the arrival of the wise men as they kneel before Jesus, presenting him with gifts which will reflect his life; gold for the King; frankincense for the presence of God; myrrh for the suffering to come. They were costly, precious gifts. Most of the time we think of the wise men and the gifts without really reflecting on their journey from the East. What portents caused them to set off in the first place? It would have been a difficult journey, not only in terms of travelling but also when they met with Herod. At once they felt something was not right, and they were right as God sent a messenger to tell them to return home by a different route.
Our journey as Christians is a long one, a lifelong one! We too are called to set off on the journey, through our baptism and confirmation. Then we start to deepen our faith, through worship, bible study, gazing into the crib at Christmas time at the joy of a new-born baby. We then follow Jesus very closely as he begins his ministry and in Jerusalem where he is crowned in the most awful of ironies and then reveals his true light to us at the resurrection.
In amongst all that we learn from Jesus, we have to learn from one another. That will mean doing so through the times of wonder and joy but also the challenges and difficulties of life. It will mean laying down somethings and taking up new. The prophet Micah tells us: “He [God] has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
I pray that during 2026 we will walk nearer our God, nearer one another and pour blessings on all those whom we meet in Jesus’s name.
With blessings for 2026.

The News from St Edith’s. The December coffee morning, which was an extended one, with Soup and Roll being served, kindly provided by Shirley and Yvonne. Thank you to them, and all who came.

The Carol Service this year was a wonderful attendance. After the Service Mince Pies, Tea and Coffee was served, which was such a lovely ambience for the start of Christmas.

Hi everyone,

Messy Church is back on Saturday teh 10th of January at 2pm in the Winchelsea Centre Ruskington. We will be exploring water and light through bible stories and activities. We will of coursehave our communal meal at the end. I hope that you will be able to join us. Please share the details with your friends if you think they might want to join with us. The poster is attached.

If you are able please let us know if you plan to come along. It helps us in our planning for catering.

With every blessing. Reverend Al and the Messy Team.

Benefice Community – All Sorts Back on the 12th January 2026

The Benefice all age outreach offering continues on Mondays at 2pm in the Winchelsea Centre Ruskington. The space is designed as a time for fellowship, activities, and conversation for people of all ages. Please come along and enjoy time with friends and perhaps make some new ones. You are always welcome.

Come and join us as we celebrate Epiphany

Come and join us for our family Service, we sing modern Christian songs, enjoy activities and refreshments. This service is for all ages both young in age as well as those young at heart.

Join us for refreshments and good conversation at our monthly coffee morning