“A star shone forth in heaven above all the other stars, the light of which was inexpressible, while its novelty struck men with astonishment. And all the rest of the stars, with the sun and moon, formed a chorus to this star, and its light was exceedingly great above them all.

And there was agitation felt as to whence this new spectacle came, so unlike to everything else in the heavens. Hence every kind of magic was destroyed, and every bond of wickedness disappeared; ignorance was removed, and the old kingdom abolished, God Himself being manifested in human form for the renewal of eternal life.”

St Ignatius of Antioch - letter to the church at Ephesus.

Remembrance Sunday 9th November

Service at St Michael’s 10.30 am

Or parade leaving Broadbottom Community Centre at 10.30 am

Act of Remembrance at Broadbottom War Memorial 10.45 am

I don’t know about you, but my Christmas lights are already up! I’d just been reading Katy Hollamby's book 'The Place of Endless Lights' about an adventure to find the place of endless lights; a place of hope and safety, free from fear. As I look at the fairy lights strung around my living room I think of hope, safety and joy.

It reminds me of Psalm 46 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." I wonder whether 2000 years ago, when Jesus was born that starry night in Bethlehem, if he knew he was to become the light of the world? Our place of refuge and strength, our very present help in trouble.

Whether you are looking forward to this Christmas season or whether it might be harder than usual I pray that we may all know Jesus that bit more; our place of refuge, safety, joy and hope. I would also like to invite you to our Christmas services.

May I wish you a joyful Christmas and God's blessing for the New Year.

Rev Adele

'There is a secret place. Filled with endless lights. It’s bright enough and strong enough for the darkest of our nights.' - Katie Hollamby, The Place of Endless Lights.

pollybrown@mottramparish.org.uk

for earlier editions of the magazine

printable versions of the magazine

to contribute to the magazine