There is Room 2022

This Christmas we have been saying to people that there is room.

During advent each minister and pastor reflected on the Christmas story on our social media channels and spoke about there being room, for difference, for nature, for all ages and all genders this Christmas and always.

'Christmas means that we remember that there is a place for everybody. You see that particularly in the Christmas story where there are loads of different sorts of people; people you wouldn't expect to be in there. For example, the wise men, who were from different backgrounds and traditions, and there was a place for them in the inn.' – Susanna Brookes

In our Circuit, it's not enough just to say that there is room for all, we have to demonstrate it. We see this in the work of the Tickhill Outreach Team who made 64 Santa sacks filled with socks, toiletries, hats and treats for those sleeping rough in the town centre.

At Harworth Methodist Church, they hosted a community Christmas tree festival which involved working with local schools, church activity groups, and communities that hire the hall.

There have also been warm spaces, set up by churches in Cantley, Sprotbrough, Auckley, Alder Grove and Flintwood, to help people save money on their energy costs.

On top of all that there are the usual Christmas services happening, but also services that are a bit different, such as Contemporary Carols or The Longest Night at SMC. At Hatfield Woodhouse, they had a full church as families from local schools and youth organisations came to light and decorate the Christmas tree. There was a buffet, crafts and contemporary carols.

There have been lots of exciting things happening across our Circuit this month and if we can say one thing this year, it is that there is room, this Christmas and always.

McCauley Key
Community Development Worker