Fish, chips and Simnel Cake at St Matthew’s

 

On December 16^th, we had our service of Nine Lessons and Carols.  In the tranquil darkness of the Church, we held, each one, a candle in anticipation of the light to come with the birth of Christ.  The carols, some old, some new, were beautifully sung under Malcolm’s direction and the readings brought us into the anticipatory mood for Christmas.

 

On 12^th January, St Matthew’s Hall was the scene of a lively and entertaining Quiz Night.  Much trouble and care had been taken to make this a successful occasion.  The question master was Jon Bradshaw; the questions were compiled by Ian Easterbrook.  Olga, Janet, Angela and the team helped to create a cheerful setting and we all enjoyed the fish and chip supper.  Sadly some questions were beyond our capabilities, though others sailed through them triumphantly.  Many thanks to all the workers for providing such a festive occasion.

 

On Christmas Eve the children of Junior Church and Toddler Church performed a spectacular Nativity Play.  The main characters delivered their lines with enthusiasm and the whole cast charmed us with their singing.  The tiniest children shone as stars, angels and sheep.  We sang ‘Away in a Manger’ by the light of our Christingle candles, in a church filled with appreciative parents, grandparents and our neighbours from the surrounding roads.

 

In brilliant sunshine, families with their children gathered to celebrate Mothering Sunday and to pay tribute to the care given by mothers.  There was much cheerful music echoed by the readings and by the colour of the daffodils proudly presented to the parents by their children.  Fr Stuart used the Simnel cake as a symbol of the thanksgiving we would like to show to those who care for us, especially God.  Fr Stuart’s recipe for Simnel Cake is available on request.                                                                Gwyneth Llewellyn