Sheffield: Louise Davies
Forget mince pies, tinsel, and Yule logs this December … there is only Ho Ho Hope City Church that will add pizzazz to your Christmas!
I recently heard Bishop Jack Nicholls, the former Bishop of Sheffield, preach at a service. He believes that the city of Sheffield is set apart from other major UK cities because it has a conscience. His reason being that Sheffield was the first city to become a City of Sanctuary and actively welcome asylum seekers and refugees.
After hearing this comment I left the Sheffield Cathedral encouraged but also challenged. Do I welcome strangers in my life? Do I live a big expansive life? At Christmas, we often become tunnel visioned as we frantically buy gifts, organize family visits and attempt to defrost the turkey. However Christmas 2010 can be different if we decide to love the people in our world. Why not wrap up boxes of chocolates and deliver them to your neighbours? May be you could put together a hamper of goodies for a local old people's shelter? Why not go carol singing for your elderly neighbours? Let's endeavour to make Christmas a special occasion for lots of other people too.
At Christmas, this message rings true as we remember the Christmas Story and how Mary and Joseph were rejected by numerous inn keepers. Jesus Christ was about to be born on their premises and they said no. The Bible tells us that Jesus is knocking on our door. This Christmas, why not open the door wide and invite him in. This could be your best Christmas ever!
There are lots of Hope City festive treats this December to put you in the Christmas mood. Why not grab a whole stack of friends and come to our Carols by Candlelight at the Sheffield Megacentre on Sunday 12th December, 6:00-7:30pm? Fantastic Carols with a live Brass Band, a moving Christmas message, Santa with a gift for all the kids and Mince Pies … it will be one Silent Night not to be missed!
We have a fabulous Christmas Eve service on Friday 24th December, 6:00-7:00pm. Escape from the madness, fix your eyes on real meaning of Christmas and give yourself the ultimate Christmas present!
I ho ho hope to see you at Hope City very soon. Merry Christmas!
Love
Louise Davies
New People's Pastor
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