Monday 19th December 2022

Yesterday was the last in our Advent series looking at peace, hope, joy and love.  If you missed it you can catch up here.  Caroline referred to a short Christmas film produced by the Church of England encouraging us to imagine where an invitation to church might lead - it's worth a look. 
 
On Friday we had a lovely afternoon tea for our more senior members and guests.  There are some pictures on the Facebook Hub if you want to see what we got up to.  If you use Facebook but are not on the St Stephen’s Hub please ask to join!
 
Our Christmas Services start on Saturday, Christmas Eve, at 4.30pm with a lively service of Carols, Christingles and Nativity.    Prior to the pandemic (when we were last able to hold this service) it was very popular, so you are encouraged to arrive in good time.  Children can take part by dressing as a character from the Christmas story.  We will  have some costumes available on the day but they are welcome to come already dressed as Mary, Joseph, an animal, star, shepherd, King or angel.  If you are too old to take part, why not wear your Christmas jumper instead?!
 
Also on Christmas Eve we have a more traditional service of Midnight Communion at 11pm.  This is a lovely way to greet Christmas Day and usually attracts a good number of visitors.
 
Christmas Day is of course a Sunday but there will only be one service at 10.30am.  This is again a fun interactive service for the whole family so please bring one of your new presents to show us all.
 
Unfortunately, we are unable to livestream over Christmas but will resume livestreaming from Sunday 8th January.
 
Don’t forget we make a special collection at our Christmas services.  This year our gifts will be divided between the Ealing Churches Winter Night Shelter and Tear Fund – organisations who support people in need in Ealing and across the world.  If you are going to be away over Christmas, you can still make a donation via our website here. 
 
There are no midweek services in the week after Christmas but looking ahead to 2023
 
Sunday 1st January - New Years Day  no 9am – 10.30 Whole Church Service
Tuesday 3rd January midweek services resume and 8pm Monthly Prayer Gathering.
Saturday 7th January - Bishop Lusa's pilgrimage to St Stephens (arriving at 1pm)
 
I hope to see you in the days ahead but if you are going away, please do have a Happy Christmas and find a local Church to join for their Christmas worship.
 
With my love

Steve