News and Events Advent 2021

Advent

Advent

Lucem Sequimur – "We follow the light"

A reflection on the Michaelmas term

I can hardly believe we’re almost at the end of term already. I feel grateful to have had a more ‘normal’ sort of Michaelmas term this year, with lectures, societies and social activities taking place on our two campuses with sensible caution. It feels a world away from this time last year, and we hope and pray for a continued improving of the Covid situation, as well as remembering those who continue to be affected by the pandemic in all sorts of ways.

A real highlight for me this term has been the launch of our new Sunday evening services, which have been ecumenical and contemplative in nature. During the course of the term we have heard music and poetry, and we’ve had diverse talks on green issues, same-sex marriage, the housing crisis, music and liturgy, and the future of the Church. A big thank you to all our speakers, and our fantastic team who make these services happen. And if you haven’t yet experienced Sunday evening at the Mary Harris Memorial Chapel, do make a note in your diary to come along next term. We’re already working on an exciting programme of speakers.

My Gran used to sing “make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver and the other’s gold”. Something like that anyway. And as exciting as it has been to experience the newness of the Sunday evening service, it’s wonderful to welcome back some old friends through more familiar activities. St Luke’s Soup Lunch on Mondays, Holy Communion on Tuesdays and Choral Evensong on Wednesdays have become key points in the Chapel diaries for people to meet together for worship and fellowship, and it’s a joy to be feeding people (spiritually with the sacrament, emotionally with music, and indeed physically with delicious homemade soup!) once again.

Looking ahead. The next 2/3 weeks are some of the most keenly anticipated in the Chapels’ diaries. It would be lovely to see you in Chapel over this period – whether it’s at a big Carol service or one of our smaller events. Term ends on 10th December and begins again on 10th Jan (which will have a limited programme due to exam week). Until we meet again, let me wish you a blessed Advent. From me, and all the team here at the Chapels.

Hannah

Rev'd Hannah Alderson, Lazenby Chaplain