FROM THE VICARAGE STUDY

My dear People,

On Sunday evening, 13th December, we have one of the most important events of the year in our local church life. A number of our members, teenage and adult, are due to be confirmed by Bishop Warner. They, on their part, are stating in public their oath of allegiance, to Almighty God, while the Bishop, on his part, confirms God's gift of the Holy Spirit through the laying-on-of-hands. They are doing what many these days have not the courage or the humility to do. They are, in plain language, openly opting for good and, knowing the weakness of human nature, are asking for God's help in this task. Here is something, surely, that fully deserves the support of all who call themselves Christians - meaning among other things your presence on the day and your prayers now and after the event. The Early Church (in which Baptism and Confirmation were often combined) regarded it as a family event of the utmost importance; only sickness or infirmity prevented 100% attendance.

May I also draw your attention to the Christmas Tree Service on the following Sunday evening, 20th? This is basically Evensong and carols, but with several special features. One of these is that each member of the congregation is asked to bring with them a small children's gift and during the service to place it at the foot of the tree, an offering to God for Him to use to bring happiness to some unknown child - an action much in keeping with the real meaning of Christmas. Children of the Green Porch Home at Milton will probably be the lucky recipients. As a change from the usual Carol Service I think you will find it an act of worship with meaning and colour, and also, value as preparation for Christmas Day itself. Finally, I must remind all communicants that they owe Christ their presence at His Table on His birthday.

A very happy and peaceful Christmas to you all.

Your sincere friend and Vicar,

JOHN GREEN.