Carol Service – Minister’s Message

The carol “O little town of Bethlehem” – it’s technically a hymn – is one which most of us know by heart. We love the picture, probably enhanced by years of Christmas cards, that it brings to our minds: the picture of a sleeping town with stars (possibly The Star!) in the sky, and a pinpoint of light spilling from the door of the stable. The atmosphere – just as in “Silent Night” – is one of stillness, tranquillity and calm; God is in his heaven and Bethlehem, indeed the whole world, is at peace.

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Minister’s Message – December 1, 2024

Bible reading: Jeremiah 33:1-9, 14-16.

Message.

This, of course, was no ordinary tree. It had been planted in the late 1800s by the landowner John Clayton. It was a favourite of both walkers and photographers. It had featured in the film “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” although it was many miles from Sherwood Forest. It was the setting for marriage proposals, sentimental moments and the scattering of ashes. And in 2016 the Woodland Trust named it “English Tree of the Year”. You might say that this tree was iconic – and now it was gone. People felt bewildered and bereaved as they contemplated the loss of an old friend: how could anyone have perpetrated such a senseless act? The Police and the National Trust began investigations and two men accused of committing it are due to stand trial this week. I’ll return to this story later.

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