FROM THE VICAR

My dear People,

I am not sure if Christmas or Foot and Mouth or the Cyprus cisis or the rail "go slow" is foremost in our thoughts at the moment. On reflection, I feel drawn to say a word about the first two. I look at the current epidemic of foot and mouth as one who has spent all his life in the country and has always accepted its laws and customs; but I am worried by the wholesale slaughter of animals involved in these recent outbreaks. I cannot rid myself of the feeling that it is morally wrong and thoroughly wasteful. Besides digesting Press and TV comment, I have discussed the subject briefly with two farmers and I respect their reasons for supporting the present national policy, which stems from economic necessity and the need to preserve the nation's standards of breeding stock. But does this slaughter policy fit easily alongside current standards of scientific knowledge and our highly civilised Christian society? In these conditions it seems morally wrong to treat God's creatures in this indifferent way. We have a duty also to see that a great deal more time and money are urgently spent on research into both virus and vaccine.

In respect of Christmas, let each one of us make a definite point of giving in terms of money or material gift to someone in need, preferably unknown to us and geographically distant. There are signs that the younger generation is more sensitive of this duty than the older. It is significant, for instance, that our own Youth Club make it a regular Christmas commitment to take gifts of coal to old-age pensioners and that Des Wilson, the director of Shelter (who have housed 1,200 people in a year), is only 26. The Christmas story began with a homeless family seeking a roof over their heads. It is naturally a time for family reunions. Please do not forget to make it a reunion of the larger family of Christ's Church in Hartlip.

My wife joins me in sending warm Christmas greetings. May God bless you all.

Your sincere friend and Vicar,

JOHN GREEN.

CHRISTMAS DAY

11.30 p.m. (Christmas Eve), Holy Communion (Sung).

8.00 a.m. and 11.30, a.m., Holy Communion.

10.30 a.m., Matins and Sermon.