Firstly, a huge thank you to all those to attended our services over the busy Christmas period. It was great to see the building full and hear the carols being sung so loudly. There were many highlights from the school nativity to the ladies choir. Once again, it was wonderful to see everyone come together in our lovely old building on the hill.

 January 12th is the day the Church celebrates Jesus’ baptism. The readings set for this include: They prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, because….they had simply been baptised into the name of the Lord Jesus. Acts 8:15 Many, if not most people reading this will have been baptised but have YOU been filled with the Holy Spirit? 

In next few weeks we will be starting some groups leading to confirmation for adults and children so think whether this should be your new years resolution for 2025. If you would like to join these groups please contact David Bennie. 

Whilst talking of renewing and refreshing in the next 3 months everyone who wants to have a say in what goes on in our Church must reapply to be included in the electoral roll even if you are on it now. Being on the electoral roll also helps if you want a baptism, marriage or funeral at St Mary’s. You will find the form under Electoral Roll heading, please print and copy it for each adult in your house, fill them out and then return them to the church office or Julie Porter. Extra copies if needed are available from the church. 

Our apologies that we have not been able to find a vicar to take all the planned services recently, this gets ever harder. We will do our best to inform regular members of the congregation beforehand when we know we have to cancel a service. 

Please don’t let this put you off – if you want a special service or vicar any time let us know and we’ll arrange it. 

We are starting the year with fresh impetus to resolve the future of our church and vicarage so we hope to share more positive news soon. 

The PCC has decided to advertise for a replacement to take over when David Bennie retires later this year. If you feel you can help us find someone or perhaps it’s you please contact one of the Churchwardens. 

Wishing you all the best for the New Year!! 

 Richard and Linda