Dear Friends in Christ,
As we rapidly approach the Birth of the Christ-child once again, I would like to take this opportunity of sending you all my annual Christmas Greetings. As Jesus was born in obscurity in the town of Bethlehem over two thousand years ago, God had already planned His Saving action through His Son. That Holy Night brought forth the Saviour of the World in the innocence of a child. Every birth is a miracle of God, and Jesus would show us a way of life that would change everything. We are uniquely privileged to share in the life of Christ as Christians; God’s love knew no bounds and that Love took on our human nature in Jesus. Let us look forward with great Joy for that birth once again into our lives this Christmas!
During the past twelve months, as a parish, we have continued with our Diocesan process of restructuring with our Stewards of the Gospel Programme. Coupled with our parochial programme of Forming Intentional Disciples, the whole process of Evangelisation continues in earnest. To proclaim the Gospel message is fundamentally at the heart of Christianity. We have held several events both social and spiritual, encouraging the whole community to be involved in the life of the parish. The parish partnership of Loughton, Epping & Waltham Abbey organised two wonderful Youth masses where our young people and their families participated in beautiful liturgy and song. It is the Eucharist that unites us in all our faith endeavours. I encourage the whole parish community to continue to support us in the practice of our faith.
The ongoing Forming Intentional Disciples Programme meets on a monthly basis, praying together, reviewing past events and planning future events. We have a core team of regulars, but everyone is always welcome. We are constantly exploring new initiatives and events for our parish community. If you would like to join us, the next meeting takes place in the New Year on Monday 13th January 2020. All Welcome!
I would like to thank the whole parish community for everything you have done for our parish over the past twelve months! Your ongoing support and involvement mean so much. It is truly an honour and privilege to serve the whole community as your Parish Priest. If ever you need help or assistance in anyway, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
I would take this opportunity of wishing you and all your loved ones, both near and far, a Very Happy, Holy & Blessed Christmas; and a healthy & prosperous New Year of 2020.
St Edmund of Canterbury 