January 2026
Dear friends,
As we move into a new year, I’ve been thinking about Christmas! We’re into a new year, but Christmas is still a recent memory. Our Christmas Day service was such a lovely event - with that warm sense of God’s presence among us. It felt really special to see so many of you there, celebrating the birth of Christ and sharing in the hope and light of the season. I hope that feeling of joy stays with us all as we begin this new year.
Now we are in the season of Epiphany, remembering the journey of the Magi and the gifts they brought to Jesus: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Epiphany reminds us to think about the gifts we can offer one another - the small acts of kindness, the listening ear, the generosity of time and love - as we walk together through the year ahead. Sometimes it’s easy to forget that even the smallest gift can make a big difference in someone’s life. The Covenant service we shared reminded us of how important it is to share our gifts together and to be ‘employed’ by God in making a difference to the world.
At this time, our prayers go especially to those who are unwell, and to anyone for whom the days feel hard. We hold in our hearts all who are grieving, and particularly the family of Jim Cunliffe, asking God to surround them with comfort, peace, and love. May they feel the support of our church family during this difficult time. But there will be others known to us who are also struggling at this time. We pray for them and for each other.
But there is still so much to celebrate in the life of our church. The work happening through our Warm Spaces, Food Pantry, and Food Bank continues to be an amazing witness to God’s love in action, welcoming and supporting people in practical ways. I want to thank you for all the ways you volunteer and support and give of your time to help others.
We are also excited by our growing links with Kings Lander School - the carol service they brought us before Christmas was so nice, and a reminder of how much we can share our gifts and talents.
As this new year begins, my prayer is that we will continue to be a church that shines Christ’s light in our community. May we notice the needs around us, offer our gifts and support one another through whatever the year brings.
“Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.”
(Isaiah 60:1)
Loving God, thank you for the joy of Christmas and the light of Christ in our lives.
As we begin this new year, guide our hearts and hands so that we may serve one another in love. Help us to share our gifts with generosity and joy, and to walk in your light each day.
Amen.
With love and blessings for the year ahead.
Darren