Wednesday 6 December 2022

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I know that things can be very busy, and indeed stressful, for many people at this time of year with so many activities and preparations for Christmas. But during the season of Advent, we are invited to make time and space to prepare ourselves spiritually for God's coming into our world and into our own lives.

I invite you to join me for our Advent Space evenings which offer that time and space in the midst of our busyness.

Advent Space 2: Waiting
The second of our Advent Space evenings is tomorrow, Wednesday 7th, 20:00-21:00 in church. I will offer some brief reflections but the main purpose will be to offer time and space for silent reflection and prayer. We will conclude the time by saying Compline (Night Prayer) together. Everyone is welcome.

Diocesan Prayers for Light for Ukraine
The Diocese will be holding prayers, 18.30 on Wednesdays 7th, 14th, 21st December, via Zoom, to pray for the people of Ukraine. Bishop Robert has just returned from a visit to Ukraine, together with the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Bishop Robert will give the address at the service tomorrow evening. Numbers are limited to join by zoom, but everyone is welcome to join in through the Youtube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFPWCl3lijw

An invitation is attached to this email.

Christmas Sale Site
The online site from the Christmas Bazaar has been re-opened as we have some extra goodies for sale which have come from the chaplaincy in Basel. There are more old favourites, plus some different items for sale. Do have a look.
The sale will close again midday, Friday 16th December.

Nativity Play
This coming Sunday, 11th December, we will hold our Nativity Play in church at 10am. This will be a shorter non-Eucharistic Family service. Do encourage family and friends to come along, especially those with young children as we celebrate together.

Carol Services
Thursday 15th December, 7pm: A service of lessons and carols at Chapelle Romande, Frutigenstrasse 22, followed by refreshments.

Sunday 18th December, 6pm: A service of lessons and carols at St Ursula's, followed by gluhwein and mince pies. Do invite your friends and neighbours.

An Advent Prayer
Keep us, O Lord,
while we tarry on this earth,
in a serious seeking after you,
and in an affectionate walking with you,
every day of our lives;
that when you come,
we may be found not hiding our talent,
nor serving the flesh,
nor yet asleep with our lamp unfurnished,
but waiting and longing for our Lord,
our glorious God for ever.
Amen
(Richard Baxter)

With love in Christ,
Helen