Unlike everyone else who perhaps has advent calendar doors to open we have a new door to open in the shape of a brand new maintenance free back door. The old one was rather worn and tired. So come and admire the new one next time you are in church.

Twenty five hardy souls braved the cold but fortunately dry evening to come and sing their hearts out raising money for Action for Children and St. Basils Homeless Centre in Birmingham. The group tackled a new area down Station Road at the Station Stores and Water works end of the village. A number of households were pleasantly surprised to have possibly for the first time carol singers on their door and we all ended up in a lovely garden chalet complete with a coal fire which warmed us all up. Afterwards the choir retired to the Railway Inn to further swell the collection tins. A total of £400 has been raised which will be split between our charities for this year; Action for Children and St Basils homeless centre in Birmingham

A packed service led by Rev Derek Shaw which started with the very necessary fire precautions. With candles all round as well as along the side tables the service began. The theme of this years service was based on an Action for Children service sheet and each reading was about a different child from the bible. So we had the story of Moses, Samuel, Jesus as well as the shepherds and other traditional readings. The choir sang two special pieces as well as helping us all sing well throughout the service. Even the children helped lead us in "Away in a manger." The service concluded with tea, coffee, mince pies and treats in the schoolroom. 

With a wet afternoon outside the Methodist hall was buzzing with activity. Children, parents and grandparents were busy creating Christmas cards, gift tags, banners amd sweets. In this digital age it was lovely to see the youngsters involved in traditional crafts. We were pleased to welcome some new children and hope they come again. Jacky read the children the Nativity stroy which lies at the heart of our beliefs. We hope out guests enjoyed themselves as much as we enjoyed haveing them. We wish everyone a happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

We had two visitors from Selly Oak Methodist church today who brought our secret Santa parcel - we had no difficulty in finding some young volunteers to unwrap the hamper which contained more than enough tea, coffee and even washing-up liquid which will be in valuable for our post Sunday tea and coffee we have after most Sunday services. We celebrated with a cup of tea and coffee with them. Thank you very much to all the congregation at Selly Oak..

Volunteers keen to open the lovely hamper of tea and coffee goodies.