Holy Trinity Church Theale
From the Rectory:
In the midst of a global financial crisis and worldwide unrest, in the midst of famine and floods, and riots and terrorist threats at home, the angels’ Christmas message of peace on earth and goodwill to men seems a million miles away.
So it was at the end of the first century BC – the tiny country known as Palestine was ruled by its occupying enemy the Romans and was torn apart by political and religious factions and greedy capitalists. There was plenty of unhappiness and fear then too.
But then as now the timing was God’s. The message of the angels spoke immediately to the people then and it does so today with a stark clarity. We all know now that the material certainties and comforts that we in the West have enjoyed can no longer be taken for granted. Our friends and neighbours are open to consider spiritual things in the way they may not have been before.
First we must keep ourselves focussed on the central message of Christmas – this is God’s great rescue operation when He sent His Son into the World to save it. In all the busyness, in all the cultural demands of trees, turkeys and tinsel let us first earmark time each day to be quiet with God in prayer and Bible Study. In this way He will be able to equip us to share with those around us the good news of Christmas, of salvation.
There are many opportunities to invite friends and neighbours to hear the Good News at both our churches – the new Toy and Christingle service on 4th Dec for families starting at Theale Primary School and including a candlelight procession to the church, Carols by Candlelight, Crib Service and Midnight Communion to mention just a few.
It has been a great joy and privilege on several occasions to worship and study with members of both congregations together, in particular the Bible overview evening and our Preparing for Christmas groups. I do hope and pray these will be the beginning of many such joint ventures.
May I take this opportunity of thanking you once again for the wonderful welcome and support you have given Peter and me and wishing you all a very joyful Christmas filled with His peace.
Ann Templeman
Ann Templeman
