ACTION for Children is the Christchurch (Methodist & United Reformed Church), Ilkley, current nominated charity focus.

Toys are being collected for the charity’s six children’s centres in the east side of Bradford where support is provided for families with children under five or families expecting a baby.

Donated toys, new and unwrapped, will be received at the Gift Service on December 10 for distribution the following day. A box will be available at Christchurch where gifts can be left in the week prior to December 10.

Minister of Christchurch, Rev Dr Roberta Topham, said: “We look forward to being able to donate some lovely Christmas presents to children close to Ilkley who do not share many of the advantages we have.”

Members and visitors to Christchurch are also invited to support the Reverse Advent Calendar Appeal, a scheme to support asylum seekers and refugees in the Bradford area. Starting on December 1, add a food item to a box daily during Advent. A list of recommended items is available from Wharfedale Refugee Response. By Christmas Eve the box should be filled with 24 essential items. It can be dropped off at Burley-in Wharfedale Methodist Church on Thursday, January 4, 2018 between 11am and 4pm and 6 and 8pm.

A further change in worship arrangements has been put in place at Christchurch (Methodist & United Reformed Church ) on The Grove, Ilkley. In response to conversations with the congregation, it was clear the spectrum of preferred worship styles was not being met with one Sunday morning service. The Leadership Team listened to comments and considered a range of options. As a result there are now two services every Sunday morning, hopefully enabling everyone to worship satisfactorily in both unity and diversity.

At 9am worship will be interactive with a more contemporary feel. The other, at 10.45am, will offer preacher-led worship with a calm, reflective element. Refreshments will be available in the cafe following both services.