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Methodist Church |
Many
people who are linked with the Methodist Church say that they really appreciate
being a part of the church family. We do have many actual families, sometimes of
several generations, involved here and we are encouraged by their lively
presence. During the past few months we have welcomed many new people,
especially families, to the "Potter Hill Cinema", which swings into action once
a month on Saturday evenings. Numbers are growing each month and we hope this
means that people feel welcome and at home in our church buildings. If you
haven't been yet, look out for the posters outside the church! Within the family
we also have many friends who live alone, often with no relations locally, and
for them the church is their family. We have a large team of pastoral visitors
who particularly try to support those who are alone when they are unwell or
going through a difficult time, and we also try to be aware of those who cannot
come to services or other events unless transport is provided.
We continue to keep up our wider links in Pickering, through sharing our faith
and witness in Pickering Churches
Together, the local Fair Trade group and in "Hope 08", which encourages
Christians throughout the UK to take part in practical activities in their own
communities - the latest event has been another "litter-pick" around the town,
aiming to make Pickering a more attractive place for all of us - locals and
visitors alike.
Now Christmas is coming! We have
already been busy packing shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child, enjoying
being a small part of this excellent charity which aims to give hope to children
caught in the midst of wars, natural disasters and extreme poverty. Here in
Pickering we shall be carol-singing around the town on December 18th and then
our Christmas services follow - a Family Nativity service on the morning of
December 21st with the traditional Candle-lit Carol service that evening. The
Crib service, especially for families (but everyone welcome!), is on Christmas
Eve afternoon - and the late evening Communion service leads the way into
Christmas Day. On Christmas morning we shall share worship for all ages with the
URC at their church. All our services and other events can be found on the
weekly sheet on the board outside the church. We hope that you will be able to
join us soon, especially as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. We look forward to
welcoming you.
Gill Freeman.