TWO exciting services were held at Crediton Methodist Church on Sunday, December 19. Firstly a performance of "Joy Story" at the morning service, when the fourth candle in the Advent ring was lit.

"Joy Story" is a dramatic performance of the nativity story written in rhyme by one of our own members, Martin Underhill. Jan, his wife, was the narrator for the story and 11 members of the congregation acted out the parts – in full nativity dress. The shepherds all carried lambs knitted by Tracey.

The performance started by Barbara singing a solo of "Love Came Down at Christmas" and there were several traditional carols for congregational singing as well as songs written by Martin which were sung to well-known tunes.

The performance ended with the Three Kings saying "Peace and Joy, as we all celebrate the boy" – and that is what Christmas should be all about.

Secondly, we held our Carol Service at 6.30pm which was led by a music group consisting of piano, violin, recorders and percussion. Some of the usual carols were sung and several traditional readings. The whole service was "signed"
by Lesley Rogers from the Sign Support Service.

A short clip was shown of the film "It’s a Wonderful Life".

Rev Alison Richardson likened the problems faced by the leading character, George Bailey – prejudice, race discrimination and bad treatment of refugees in the US in the 1930s to the current problems facing people around the world today. In the film he is befriended by Clarence, an angel, who says “no man is a failure if he has friends”.

Alison said we should be friends and sustain and support communities and families at this difficult time.

We should follow Christ’s example and help make a "wonderful life" for everyone. As we start the New Year, let us aim to serve the Lord and find out what God wants us to do in an uncertain time. He will guide us to fulfil our calling to be His disciples.

A Happy Christmas to Everyone.

Bronwyn Nott