Minister's Message December 2025 - January 2026
Dear Friends, It’s hard to believe that we’re already approaching the end of another year. As December arrives, the pace of life seems to quicken—calendars fill up, lists grow longer, and Christmas music seems to echo from every corner. Yet, in the midst of all that busyness, the season of Advent quietly invites us to do something quite countercultural: to pause, to watch, and to wait. Advent is a time of holy expectation. It’s about preparing our hearts as well as our homes, learning to notice the ways that God is already at work among us, even before the big celebration begins. Christmas itself then reminds us that the light of God has come right into the ordinary and the messy—into the everyday lives of shepherds and innkeepers, of young parents and unexpected visitors. And Epiphany takes that light even further, showing us that God’s love reaches to the ends of the earth. As always, it’s a busy and joy-filled season in both our churches, and we hope you’ll find time to join in with the many opportunities to worship, celebrate, and reflect together. At Castle Street, our Family Interactive Carol Service will take place on 14th December at 10am—full of music, laughter, and a touch of holy chaos! And the same service will be at Histon on 21st December 4pm. That morning at Histon we will have our traditional Nine Lessons and Carols. There’s something for everyone, so please do come along and bring family, friends, and neighbours with you. A huge thank you to our students who led worship so beautifully on 23rd November. The service was full of creativity, insight, and joy—you really are a talented bunch, and we are so proud of you. January will also bring some change as we prepare to say farewell to Deacon Ian Murray, who will be leaving us after faithfully serving in the Circuit. His leaving service led by Rev Alison Walker (well known to both congregations) will take place at 2pm on Saturday 17th January at Wesley Methodist Church. Please do come along to give thanks for Ian’s ministry and to send him off with our prayers and gratitude. For many people, Christmas is not all light and laughter. It can be a difficult time, especially for those facing loss, loneliness, or painful anniversaries. As we celebrate the joy of Christ’s birth, let’s also make room for gentleness and care. If you know someone who might find this season hard, take time to reach out—perhaps invite them for a coffee, write a note, or simply sit and listen. And if you are someone for whom Christmas feels heavy, know that you are held in our prayers and in the love of this community. On the back of this newsletter, you’ll find a Christmas angel template. You might like to make one for someone you’re remembering this year— write their name or a short prayer on it, and hang it on your Christmas tree as a quiet reminder to pray for them throughout the season. May Advent bring you moments of stillness amid the bustle, Christmas bring joy and wonder, and Epiphany open your eyes to the light of God shining in surprising places.
With love and every blessing for Christmas and the New Year,
Rev Jenny