I wonder what the preacher will preach on today at the Christmas Day service. There’s a good likelihood that he will pick up on the account in Luke 2. If they do, I suspect that the reading will focus on v1-20. We’ll hear about the census, the journey to Bethlehem. We may well hear quite… Continue reading The missing verse of Christmas
Tag: Christmas
What I need for Christmas
Mariah Carey sung: I don’t want a lot for ChristmasThere is just one thing I needI don’t care about the presents underneath the Christmas treeI just want you for my ownMore than you could ever knowMake my wish come trueAll I want for Christmas is you Songwriters: Mariah Carey / Ellis Williams / Robert Allen… Continue reading What I need for Christmas
Give me Jesus
What is Christmas all about? What is it that we most need? Later in this week I’m going to be sharing some specific thoughts on what those who are lonely, grieving, depressed, hurting need at Christmas. Spoiler alert, what we need is joy, deep unspeakable joy. That joy is found in Jesus Christ and in… Continue reading Give me Jesus
Hope in the aftermath of grief
This is a guest article from my dad, Roger Williams. Dad was due to preach at a little church north of Bradford last Sunday and was preparing his sermon whilst my mum was in hospital. After mum died, dad felt strongly that he had been given a message to bring and that he should fulfil… Continue reading Hope in the aftermath of grief
How accurate is your nativity play?
The Sunday School nativity is one of the great traditions of Christmas. Dish out a few carboard crowns and tea towels, find some white tunics and tinsel, then get the children to act out the events of Christmas. But how accurate are our nativity plays and how much do they rely on tradition rather than… Continue reading How accurate is your nativity play?
Preaching at the carol service
So, it’s Sunday evening in the week before Christmas and the church building is packed. This is probably the largest gathering you are likely to see all year, even if you pastor a large congregation. There are lots of visitors. You recognise some friends and family of church members who have come with them. Then,… Continue reading Preaching at the carol service
Hillsong and paying for Christmas
Hillsong London are reportedly charging £10 for a ticket to one of their “Carol Concerts”. These “concerts” are taking place at various times on Sundays in December, replacing the usual services at the church’s locations. The Hillsong website refers to them as “performances.” There are a number of concerns I have with this. Some of… Continue reading Hillsong and paying for Christmas
#WhatTheCarolsMean – Advent and Christmas 2022
As mentioned earlier this week, Advent begins today. You can find here on Faithroots, a series of videos where we look at some of the carols and advent hymns we sing at this time of year. I recommend you begin with this one You can have a look at all of them here.
Advent Reflections available from Faithroots
This year, Advent begins on the 27th November. Some Christians find it helpful during Advent and the lead up to Christmas to set aside time for reflection each day. The other year, I put together a series of short talks/meditations linking to specific carols. I’ve included a mixture of advent hymns such as “Oh Come… Continue reading Advent Reflections available from Faithroots
Looking Back at 2021
Here’s this week’s podcast and it’s a return to the pandemic “Afternoon Tea” format with Sarah returning for a conversation about Christmas and the year that’s just gone by.
Faithroots 