Christmas

What a difference a year makes!

This time last year a group from our local church were singing carols at our local farm shop.

And on a blustery winter night we joined in a ‘walking nativity’.
As we re-imagined Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem we made our way round the village accompanied by donkeys, a star and, even for part of the journey, a baby. All ending up with a final carol, mince pies and mulled wine in church.

This year things will be different; we are all having to discover new ways of celebrating Christmas at a time when the message of hope and light at the heart of the story seems more important than ever.

In creating this Christmas Ramble I have put together a selection of thoughts, music, a story and a carol as a little gift. I am hoping that, amid all the current upheaval, it may help to remind us that at the heart of our celebrations is one who brings light into the darkest places, rest to those who are weary and comfort to all who are down hearted.

I hope you may find a few quiet moments, either before Christmas day or during the Christmas season, to enjoy it perhaps with a coffee and a mince pie or even a glass of mulled wine.

And that, in the words of an ancient Celtic blessing

You may be blessed with the spirit of the season, which is peace,
The gladness of the season, which is hope,
And the heart of the season, which is love.

With love and blessings to you all.