The Harvest season is over, the clocks have gone back, and the dark nights have returned. As we get used to the Winter darkness, we start to prepare our hearts for Advent. The name comes from the Latin word ‘Adventus’ meaning ‘the arrival of a notable person’, like a king or an ambassador.
In a famous sermon, St Bernard of Clairvaux talked about how Christ comes to us in three different ways. Firstly, at his birth in Bethlehem, secondly, in our hearts, when we invite him into our lives and thirdly, in the future, at his second coming, when he will return again. The season of Advent challenges us not to just remember how Christ was born two thousand years ago, but to also welcome him into our lives in the present, while also preparing our hearts for his return in the future.
It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of the Christmas season, but Advent calls us to make room for Jesus amid the distractions. It’s a time to renew our relationship with Him, seek Him in prayer, and allow His peace to fill our hearts.
In the midst of the dark nights, we remind ourselves afresh, that ‘The true light that gives light to everyone [has come] into the world.’ (John 1:9).
Baptism Service
It was wonderful to gather for a special United Service at Ashfield Church on Sunday 9th November to baptise Cara Kelly and welcome her into God’s family. Congratulations to Cara’s parents Niall and Lorna and big sister Leah, who had the important job of pouring the water into the font.
Engagement Congratulations.
The last month has seen two engagements in the parish! Melanie Middleton (Kill Parish) got engaged to Cathal Keegan. Meanwhile Jason Hall (Ashfield Parish), got engaged to Ann Lundy in Venice. Huge congratulations to both couples. May each be blessed with a lifetime of love, laughter and happiness together.
