Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

As Advent draws to a close, hectic for schools etc and stressful for relationships, in the Gospel we are told that Mary is blessed for believing “that the promise made her by the Lord would be fulfilled”. God keeps the promise made long ago through the “Yes” of Mary.  This consent would shape her whole life, little could she have seen how much at the time. This promise had a name- Jesus - as we prepare to celebrate that grace  filled and wonderful occasion of His birth among us.

Swine Flu Regulations. I have consulted extensively and from this weekend we return to a pretty normal routine with the following to please be observed:

Holy Communion will be distributed from the chalice as well as from the ciborium. Please continue to receive Holy Communion in the hand even if your preference is on the tongue, infections are easily transmitted by saliva. When we get the all clear your wishes will be respected in this regard.

For Mass co-ordinators, please note that there will be two chalices in the porch and two in the sanctuary area. All Eucharistic Ministers should use the antibacterial gel before and after Holy Communion. Thanks for your cooperation.

• Please collect Christmas cards from the porch table.
• Bible Alive for January now in the porch - £1
• Waitrose have kindly agreed that we can use their car park on Christmas Eve for the 6pm and Midnight Masses. Many thanks to them.

I ask you to welcome anyone you do not recognise in this holy season. The Christmas Story is littered with strangers looking for Jesus.

Fr Paul is leaving for Christmas. We all wish him a safe journey, a restful time and much thanks for his service to this community.

May the blessings of Christ be with you and all belonging to you this Christmas. If you are travelling have a safe journey, or visiting, welcome and enjoy your family and friends.

Thanks to you all for your support in many ways. Christ came as the Light of the World, may we walk in that light always.

God Bless and Peace, Fr John.