Sunday 29th September 2024It was a wet stormy morning at Towednack last Sunday when Rev Elizabeth Foot led a united service of Holy Communion celebrating the Festival of St Michael and All Angels. Reflecting this occasion Beatrice Goodden’s Icon of the Archangel Michael was displayed on the altar during the service. This beautiful depiction (pictured) was admired by all. The first lesson from the Book of Revelation, read by David Billingham, told the story of Michael and his angels as they fought against and defeated the dragon, who is called the Devil and Satan. In her sermon Elizabeth told us that the celebration of St Michael and All Angels reminds us that there are unseen angelic armies in our lives, led by St Michael and fighting against the powers of darkness. Although we may not regularly encounter angels, or maybe we do without realizing, we do encounter the glory of God in our beautiful holy place of worship surrounded by our Christian friends of our church family. Julie Curtis led the prayers of intercession and assisted with the chalice and refreshments were served after the service courtesy of Margaret and Yvonne.
On Christmas Eve afternoon a Christingle service, held at Towednack and led by Rev Elizabeth Foot, attracted a good attendance and the church was full. Those present were encouraged to take part in a re-enactment of the nativity story with Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus accompanied by cows and camels - with speaking parts - shepherds, kings and many more. Appropriate costumes were available for all who wished to join the group. Later the Christingle oranges were distributed, the lights were dimmed and the candles were lit creating the unique atmosphere of Christmas time. The collection taken at the service was given to the Children’s Society. Christmas Day was celebrated with a service of Holy Communion led by Rev David Rake. The service began with the lighting of the final candle on the advent ring with a prayer asking God to help us as we greet the birth of Christ with joy, to live in the light of his Son and to share the good news of his love. The organist was David Billingham and the hymns sung included “O come all Ye Faithful” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”. Julie Curtis read the first bible reading from Isaiah chapter 52, verses 7 to 10 and also led the prayers of intercession. Linda Cook acted as sides-person. On the first Sunday of Christmas we joined our friends at Zennor church for a service of Holy Communion once again led by Rev David Rake.
