Light in the Darkness.
Light in the darkness – that is what the Christmas story tells us that Jesus is to the world. A small candle burning in even the darkest of places casts light and hope to those who see it. And we had an abundance of little fairy lights and lanterns illuminating the church for our Advent Vintage Adventure, setting the scene for exploring what the well-known story of this much celebrated season means.
The Story Retold, led by Marion, looked at “The Mystery of Advent”, explaining the meaning of each of the Advent candles and helping us to reflect on the expectancy of these few weeks leading up to Christmas, looking towards the coming of Jesus.
Following time gathered altogether, guests then had the opportunity to reflect on the story further – be that through making beautiful tea light holders; imagining what newspaper headlines from 2000 years ago would have been as the word about Jesus’ birth got out; or sitting in quiet contemplation and lighting a candle to remember a loved one in prayer.
Before sharing a delicious lunch of homemade soup together, worship was closed with a blessing:
May his peace,
That lightens the soul with faith,
Lifts the spirit with hope,
And leavens the world with love,
Be yours today and forever.
How wonderful to be reminded of God’s peace, which meets us where we are at, and the hope we can have in remembering and celebrating the birth of Jesus, our light, casting out sin and darkness.
One participant said: “It’s something to look forward to, and it’s good to have the spiritual input, and having company for lunch, a simple lunch and it’s so quiet and peaceful, and getting a lovely welcome.”
