Sunday 28th September was Harvest Festival at St Michael’s and the subject of Rev. Adele’s sermon was, appropriately, generosity. Members of the congregation were persuaded to leave their pews and take part in a spirited impromptu performance of the story of Ruth.

With touching generosity Ruth refused to abandon her elderly mother-in-law and as a result found herself having to glean amid the alien corn.

The reapers came striding down Boaz’s field (the centre aisle) wielding their (fortunately imaginary) scythes and leaving generous quantities of pampas grass (masquerading as barley) for young Ruth to take home to Naomi.

All the harvest gifts were donated to the local Tameside and Longdendale South Foodbank.

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

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