Moston Methodist Church

Minister – Rev Sharon Read

POSTED ON: 27 November 2020

Letter from our minister 27/11/2020

Friday 27th November 2020


Dear friends


I sat trying to write this letter yesterday, but I have to share that the news of us returning into Tier 3 beyond lockdown2 had me in tears and feeling sad, despite being prepared for us as Greater Manchester to return there. How could I offer you something in a letter when I had nothing to say? An image caught my eye – the image of this Nativity scene:


Too often I try and do everything – fit everyone and everything in….this year Advent and Christmas are going to be so different because of Covid19 and also very complicated as we figure out the new rules and discover what if anything is possible. Like the image reminds us – let’s keep it simple. Advent is the time to watch and wait for the birth of the Christ-child. How are you doing to do that? I am going to light a candle my quiet space and use the Advent booklet produced by the circuit each day and pray for you all. Each week, I am hosting Wednesdays at 6pm – a chance to hold space together on zoom and consider the themes of Advent. Please get in touch to join me or email communities@manchestermethodists.org.uk for the zoom codes. If you wish to telephone in – let me know and I will help. Each day my family will open our chocolate Advent calendars while watching our Virtual Advent Calendar via the circuit website or social media – I can’t wait to see what you have all done. I am so excited about this. And on Sundays we will share in our Advent liturgy and light a candle in our own homes. I would love to see your coloured in wreath or indeed your created one…instructions are in the booklets or do your own thing.


The first week of Advent we think about HOPE! Our hope is found in the promises of God, hope is found in Jesus and hope is found in the story of faith and the reading of scripture. No matter what pain, trials and temptations we go through – we can hold onto the hope that God extends to us.


I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God
so that you may know that you have eternal life.
This is the confidence we have in approaching God:
that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.


(1 John 5:13-14)


Dear God, as the sun rises on our day, may your light dawn on our hearts. Reveal Your character and goodness to us as we put our hope in You. Amen

Have a great week. Stay safe. Stay well. Hold each other in prayer. I look forward to seeing you on our zoom service this Sunday.

Love and prayers, Sharon

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