What does Christmas mean to you? Perhaps it’s spending months, days (or even whole minutes!) trying to find that perfect present. Perhaps it’s singing “Let it snow!” - whilst trying not to worry about the weather forecast for that long journey to be with family. Perhaps it’s the eating and drinking – while hoping that we haven’t spent too much trying to achieve the “perfect” Christmas. Isn’t there a little of this in all of us? And who doesn’t love presents, family and a good party? The first Christmas contained all three – just ask the angels about the party.

But as we all celebrate, please spare a thought for those who spend the season lonely, afraid, homeless, hungry, far away from (or even without) loved ones - and give thanks for those who give of themselves to help and serve others at this time.

And please take a moment, if you will, to think of the baby whose birth we celebrate, of God bringing hope for all and the promise of healing to the nation(s) – surely needed as much now as at any time.

Churches Together in Ross and District would like to wish you a loving, peaceful and joyous Christmas.