News from First Church

We give thanks for everything that changes and challenges us

for surprises and holidays, the unexpected meeting with a friend,

the chance to do something different

and for new people and new ideas in our lives

The church communities of Martinborough came together in mid-December to celebrate in a traditional Christmas service of readings and carols at First Church.

Members of St Andrews Anglican Church, St Anthony of Padua Catholic church and the Victory Fellowship and many friends and visitors joined with us in a joyful and most enjoyable occasion to which members of each church contributed. There are plans for the churches to join together again at Easter time when we can recognise all that each church can share in common.

An interesting opportunity to experience walking through a Labyrinth set out by members of First Church in the Town Hall will have taken place on the last Sunday in January. This will be repeated in April, and more details will be available nearer the date for those who might be interested to “walk a Labyrinth” – this has been described as a pilgrimage to discover something about ourselves, the destination is not important, the journey is…

The First Church stall will be at the Country fairs – Saturday 6 February and 6 March. We will be running our usual stall on the Square, across from the former BNZ

building, now the Wine Bank. Our baking, preserves and garden produce are always good buying, and we look forward to meeting up with all our regular friends and supporters, and of course visitors to town.

First Church was packed with the family and friends at a service on the 20 January to celebrate the long and full life of our friend Charmaine Alpe, who contributed so much to the life and work of our community, and was a tireless worker at the church’s fairs for many, many years. Charmaine had a great capacity for friendship, and was a generous and enthusiastic supporter of all church activities.

To find out about First Church on line:  www.martinborough1stchurch.org

                                                                mboro.firstchurch@xtra.co.nz

or come and join us on Sundays 10 am   – corner of Jellicoe and Weld Streets

As we all face what could be another time of health and travel difficulties, with many of us having ongoing concerns for family and friends overseas – these words could help:

Let us breathe deeply and embrace life’s gifts

Let us be gentle with ourselves and each other

Let us keep our balance as we combine our daily living and outside commitments

And let us reach out to support and care for each other.

Go well    Go with God