What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke this year? On Christmas Eve at one of the services, I was thrilled when a little bundle of Christmas cracker jokes was pressed into my hands!
A few of the family favourites this year have been…
What do you get hanging from Father Christmas’s roof?
Tired arms!
Who is Rudolph’s favourite pop star?
Beyon-sleigh!
What kind of motorbike does Father Christmas ride?
A Holly Davidson!
If you found any good ones this year, do let me know – I’m keeping a stock for next year!
While Christmas Day is over, the turkey polished off and the Christmas crackers pulled, the church’s Christmas season continues for a while longer. There’s the visit of the wise men at Epiphany, with some churches chalking the door, a lovely tradition reminding us of the giving and receiving of welcome. It involves chalking 20+C+M+B+26 on the stonework around the door signifying the traditional names of the three wise men, Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar (the initials also spelling out the Latin blessing ‘May Christ bless this house’). The wise men were outsiders, Gentiles who came to bring their gifts, and have been received and welcomed by Christianity ever since. The giving and receiving of welcome in our churches is something always in season.
As we turn the corner into a new year, I want to say a huge thank you for welcoming my family and I over this past year. It’s been a great first Christmas as Rector of Turton Moorland Team. Thank you for all the Christmas cards, the wonderful music and Carols over Advent and Christmas, and everyone who has worked so hard to make church a welcoming place for all. Thank you for all your hard work and all you have given of yourselves.
As we head into the New Year, may we continue to find joy in the giving and receiving of hospitality, for there is treasure here… and as the letter to the Hebrews reminds us, some have even entertained angels, without knowing it!
Wishing you all a Happy New Year!
With love,
Rev’d Ian Hepburn, Team Rector, Turton Moorland Team
