From the editor
Although no young parishioners were moved to enter our recent writing competition, we have been lucky enough to receive contributions for the magazine from younger writers. Isabelle Laidlaw’s seasonal poem appears in our Back Page slot, while Ted William’s thoughtful piece entitled ‘Home Is’ is a remarkable fit to the article on ‘Home is a holy place’. Just the serendipity an editor hopes for! Thank you both.We’re also lucky enough to have an update from Captain Matt Clifton on the work being done in Croydon to rescue trafficked and exploited women.
I have a particular thank you to the editorial team for their moral and physical support as I’ve tried to get this edition of In Touch together with my right wrist in plaster. No-one can read my writing, and it takes me ages to reply to emails, but as usual everyone is very cheerful and uncomplaining.
I hope to be back to normal by Christmas. I wish us all a happy and holy one, and a peaceful new year
Tricia Steel
tricia_steel@hotmail.com
Contents
Guild of St Stephen enrollment an important occasion in the life of our parish
The guild of St Stephen Bev Charman writes about the history and aims of this organisation for altar servers
The next step what's happening after the feedback phase of 'A vision for our diocese'?
Food on the hoof Susan Gower reports on an enjoyable social occasion
Christmas on the web a collection of useful web links on the subject of Christmas
Home is a holy place?! an abbreviated extract from Sarah Johnson's address at the diocesan day
Home is... Ted Williams tells us what home means to him
The feast of the Epiphany some aspects of this important feast day
Christians together a reflection on the practical aspects of Christioan unity in preparation for the coming week of prayer
Street pastors information on an exciting local initiative
Croydon community against trafficking an update from Captain Matt Clifton
Christmas Thoughts our back page poem from Isabelle Laidlaw