A Christmas message sent on behalf of our County Padre:

The world sometimes seems a very dark place.  News programmes bring into our living rooms the horrors of Ukraine and tragedies in this country.  We are all affected to a greater or lesser degree by the cost-of-living crisis. 

Christmas happens at the very darkest time of year.  A special memory, whilst serving at sea one December, was going onto the bridge at midnight.  All was quiet as a young Midshipman tried out his skills navigating by the stars.   This year the Church of England is asking us to ‘Follow the Star’.  We all know of the three Magi from the East, who long ago, followed a star across desert lands to bring their treasures and kneel in adoration before the infant King. 

Perhaps there are gifts of money, food, or our company we can share this Christmas with those who find themselves in the deepest of need.  In doing so we may find ourselves following the star leading to Christ, our morning star, the greatest gift of all.

May I wish you all a very blessed Christmas and a happy New Year

Sally

Canon Sally Theakston

Padre Norfolk RBL