METHODIST CHURCH: On Saturday, December 21, a group from the church sang carols in Booths in Ilkley raising £192 for Action for Children, formerly the National Children’s Home. The singers would like to thank all Booths staff and customers for their warmth and generosity. Morning worship on Sunday was led by Michael Hardstaffe and the theme was Jesus – God’s Word. At 4pm the cafe style carol service was held, with decorated tables around the church and something of a party atmosphere. About 80 people enjoyed the proceedings with drinks and nibbles available on each table and the Rev Tim Perkins led an hour of carols, readings, a Pointless-style quiz, and also spoke about the almost incredible story of God coming to earth in human form. Our youth gospel group, Shine, sang three songs, receiving a great round of applause. On Christmas Eve, holy communion will be celebrated at 11.30pm, led by the Rev John Lambert, and all are welcome at the Lord’s table. Our Christmas Day family worship will take place at 10am and we hope that many people will accept the invitation to come and share with us in a joyful Christmas service for young and old. Next Sunday, morning worship at 10.30am will be led by the Rev Julian Pursehouse.

ST MARY’S CHURCH: Today there will be a Christingle service at 4pm with the now traditional St Mary’s Big Band, and midnight mass at 11.30pm. Our Christmas Day services are 8am holy communion, 9am crib service, when the travelling crib arrives back in church, and 9.45am festival communion. There is a holy communion service at 10am on St Stephen’s Day (Boxing Day).