St John's News - 22 November

Dear friends,

"Our hearts are restless, until they can find rest in you."
Augustine of Hippo

I stumbled across this familiar quote this morning and thought how timely it is. As we head into the Advent and Christmas period, our lives can become even more hectic than normal. It is good to remember that, even in the manic pace of life in 2022, we can still find true rest in Christ.

Tom Hart preached at Sunday's service and his talk is well worth listening to and even a repeat listen. Remember, you can catch up on our services on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stjohnselmswell

This coming Sunday is Advent Sunday and Brenda Webb will be speaking at the 10:30am service, which includes the Lord's Supper. Sunday School will continue looking at the life of Jacob.

The service of thanksgiving for the life of Derek Folkard is next Wednesday, 30 November, at 11:30am. All are welcome to come. Please remember Jean in your prayers at this difficult time for her.

December is a great month to invite friends and neighbours to church. The all age service on Sunday 4 December will be a Christingle and our main Carol service, Carols by Candlelight, is on Sunday 11 December at 6:30pm

Please pop along to the Give Hope Traditional Christmas Event on Saturday 10 December (10am-3pm) at the Blackbourne. This free event offers people the chance to come along to find a gift for someone special, to enjoy carols sung by the local choir, a hot drink, mince pie and a biscuit. There’s also a bouncy castle and activities for children.

Also, as well as supporting the Stowmarket Area foodbank, please support the "Give Hope Shelter" initiative, which offers local residents in need food and other basic necessities. It operates at the Tavern on Mondays and Fridays from 10am to 1pm. Simply turn up during these times to donate non-perishables. There is a real need at the moment. Thank you.

Finally, the weekly church prayer meeting is on Zoom on Saturday at 9:00am for 40 minutes. To join, click https://us04web.zoom.us/j/6852951296 or, load Zoom and use Meeting ID: 685 295 1296 and Password: 816262.

In Christ,

Peter
Tue 22 Nov 2022