The Clergy and churches will be taking a break over the 26th – 29th of December.
We will be posting when activities restart in the new year.
If there is an emergency please contact Rev Matt on 07800750259 or matt@mynyddbedwellte.church.
Advent – Love
As we are knee-deep in the magic of Christmas, let’s cosy up with a cup of something and dive into a topic that’s as warm and inviting as a crackling fireplace—Love.
Love is all over this season, from Mariah Carey being let out of her box to singing All I Want for Christmas Are You? Or Mud’s tribute to festive heartbreak, “it will be lonely this Christmas”. to our Carols O Holy night speaks of God’s deep love for us and the transformation of that for us:
“Truly, He taught us to love one anotherHis law is love, and His gospel is peaceChains shall He break, for the slave is our brotherAnd in His name, all oppression shall ceaseSweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise weLet all within us praise His holy name.”
Love In A Labyrinth
Love In A Labyrinth
So, how can we find God’s love at Christmas? It can be challenging in the festive season to take 5 minutes for ourselves. The labyrinth below guides us to slow down and reflect on love. It helps us meditate on God’s love for us. And yes, he loves you deeply enough to come as a baby to the world and show us the way to life (that’s Jesus). You can print this or follow it on your screen. Take time to stop and follow the labyrinth to breathe and speak to God to show you his love and to be attentive to it. It is not a maze. It simply leads us to the centre, where we meditate on God’s love as we go, not to empty ourselves of thought but to fill ourselves with God’s love and peace.
“Though we cannot think alike, may we not love alike?”
– John Wesley
Wesley’s timeless wisdom is like a guiding star in our labyrinthine journey. In a world that often buzzes with conflicting thoughts and opinions, the labyrinth becomes a space where we can allow our differences to fade, and love becomes the common language we can share. We appreciate the unique perspectives each of us brings, seeking togetherness in the shared experience of love.
“Since love grows within you, so beauty grows. For love is the beauty of the soul.”
– Augustine
Augustine’s words add a layer of depth to our journey. Imagine the labyrinth as a garden as we journey into the centre; love takes root within us, blossoming into a beauty that shows outward. Love isn’t just an emotion; it’s a transformative force that shapes the very essence of our being. Love is a doing word. We need to act out love for the beauty to be seen.
So, as we guide ourselves through the labyrinth, let’s allow love to grow within us, becoming a sign of beauty in our lives.
In this season of Advent and soon Christmas, let the music, the labyrinth, and the wisdom of Wesley and Augustine guide us. May our journey be filled with the warmth of love, understanding, and joy. Here’s to a love-filled Advent that resonates with the melody of the season!
Follow the Star
As we navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of tasks, lists, and obligations. Amid our busy lives, it becomes crucial to pause and reflect on the true essence of Christmas—the message of love, light, and the profound words of John the Baptist preparing the way of the Lord.
St Dingats in New Tredegar has a beautiful nativity window; one chilly evening on my way to the Christingle service, my mind was consumed with the myriad of tasks that needed my attention—decorations to be hung carols to be practised, emails to send and sermons to be finalized.
The weight of these responsibilities threatened to darken my view of Christmas.
Amid my racing thoughts, I glanced up at St. Dingats driving into the town. A solitary star emitted a warm and comforting glow shone through the window with the nativity scene. The simplicity of this sight, the star shining in the dark, acted as a gentle reminder of the age-old story we hold dear—the story of hope, love, and the anticipation of the arrival of the Savior.
As I glanced at that radiant star and the road, I felt a shift within me. The light emanating from the window illuminated the church and my path through the chaos of responsibilities.
It was as if the star was whispering to me, urging me to follow a different path this Christmas—one paved with love, guided by the light of Jesus.
John the Baptist’s words echoed in my mind, urging me to prepare the way for the Lord. The star in the window became a physical representation of that preparation—a symbol of focusing on what truly matters amidst the season’s chaos.
It wasn’t about the perfection of the decorations or the flawless execution of the service but about embracing the love and light that Christmas represents.
I give you this star for us to follow so we don’t get bogged down in the less critical stuff. Instead, let us prepare our hearts, just as John the Baptist prepared the way for the Lord. Follow the light of Jesus, not all the stuff and trapping and stress. When we start with Jesus the King, born in the stable, all other things will fall into place.
As we navigate the remaining days of Advent and approach the celebration of Christmas, let us remember to follow the light—the light of love, compassion, and the message of Christ’s birth. Like John the Baptist, we may prepare the way for the Lord in our hearts, allowing His love to shine brightly through us. In doing so, we rediscover the true magic of Christmas and share that magic with those around us, making this season truly special and meaningful.
Resolve Course
In the new year, we are running the four-week Resolve course, exploring how to enact positive change in your life. Topics covered include Looking after your body, Strengthening your mind, Inspiring your soul, and Deepening your relationships.
All are welcome to come and join us for this course whether you regularly attend church or not.
This is an excellent opportunity to invite friends and neighbours to something which will help you think together about life.
- St. Georges: Mondays at 7 pm (starting 8/1/24) St Georges Church, Church St, Tredegar NP22 3DU
- St. Peters: Sundays at 4 pm (starting 14/1/24) Church St, Aberbargoed, Bargoed CF81 9FF
Check out more info and watch the promo video here!
Advent – Joy
In a world often laden with challenges and uncertainties, pursuing Joy becomes a journey of hope. C.S. Lewis once eloquently stated, “Joy is the serious business of Heaven.” This wisdom resonates as a reminder that Joy is not merely a fleeting emotion but a deep and meaningful aspect of our spiritual journey—a gift of the Spirit that transcends circumstances and enriches our lives in ways we might not fully grasp.
The concept of Joy is intricately woven into the fabric of our faith, signifying a joy that goes beyond momentary happiness. It is a joy rooted in the eternal truths of God’s love and grace. As believers, we are called to seek and cultivate this Joy at all times, understanding that it is not based on our external circumstances but on our relationship with the divine.
In the Bible, Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul lists Joy alongside love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control as qualities that characterize a life led by the Spirit of what it is to be a Christian. This underscores the importance of Joy as a transformative force in our faith journey.
A great way to pray with Joy in mind is through gospel contemplation. This practice involves immersing yourself in the words of the Bible, not just reading them but allowing them to get into the depths of our hearts and minds. By engaging in gospel contemplation, we can uncover different perspectives and views that reveal the Joy in the words of scripture.
We find joy all in the Bible: John the Baptist leaping in the womb at the news of Jesus’ conception, the prodigal son returning to the Father in Jesus’ Parable, and the shepherds hearing the good news of Jesus’s birth.
Gospel contemplation invites us to meditate on the Bible, allowing the Joy within them to resonate within our souls. It enables us to see beyond the surface and discover the profound truths that bring Joy into focus.
Through this practice, we can uncover the Joy of redemption, the Joy of divine love, and the Joy of our eternal hope in Christ.
Moreover, gospel contemplation opens our hearts to Joy even in challenging passages. It reminds us that Joy is not the absence of difficulties but the presence of God in the midst of them. Just as Jesus endured the cross for the Joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2), we too can find Joy in our trials, knowing that they are temporary compared to the eternal Joy that awaits us.
As we navigate the complexities of life, let us embrace the profound truth that Joy is the serious business of Heaven. It is a gift of the Spirit, a transformative force that can elevate our perspectives and sustain us through all seasons. Through gospel contemplation, we can delve deeper into the richness of Joy within the scriptures, allowing it to shape our outlook and develop our lives with the divine Joy that transcends all understanding. May we seek, find, and share the Joy in Jesus.
You may wish to follow this simple gospel contemplation guide to introduce you to this practice, looking at the Joy in the Shepherds hearing the good news of Jesus’ birth.
Advent – Peace
Introduction:
As we continue our journey through Advent, let’s take a moment to reflect on Peace—both the Peace we seek within ourselves and the Peace that comes from outside ourselves in Jesus. Amongst the holiday frenzy, how can you find a moment of calm, a tranquil pause amid the Christmas chaos? How can we find Peace as we read in – John 14:27 (NRSV): “Peace I leave with you; the Peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”
Discovering Peace through the Jesus Prayer:
In the second week of Advent, we delve deeper into the concept of Peace. Jesus’ words in John 14:27 resonate powerfully—His Peace is not like the fleeting Peace offered by the world; it is a lasting, transformative peace that anchors our souls.
Scripture:
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)
The Jesus Prayer: A Path to Inner Peace:
The repetition of the Jesus Prayer—“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner”—is a practice that has ancient origins in the Orthodox church but is powerful for us today. By speaking these words, we acknowledge our need for God’s mercy and invite the Peace of Christ into our lives.
“Peace I give to you, my peace I leave with you.” – John 14:27 (NRSV)
In the rhythm of this prayer, we find a sacred space to centre ourselves, shifting our focus from the chaos around us to the serenity within us.
Words of Wisdom:
“God cannot give us happiness and Peace apart from Himself because it is not there. There is no such thing. – C.S. Lewis” As Lewis points out, Peace and Joy come from God. The Jesus Prayer becomes a crafting of Peace in our hearts, a masterpiece of divine connection.
Practical Tips for Peace:
- Breathe in Peace: Inhale Christ’s Peace, exhale the world’s worries. Take intentional deep breaths while reciting the Jesus Prayer.
- Create a Peaceful Space: Designate a quiet corner for prayer. Let it be a refuge to retreat, pause, and connect with God.
- Pray Continuously: In moments of stress or busyness, whisper the Jesus Prayer as a reminder of Christ’s abiding presence.
Conclusion: Let us actively pursue Christ’s Peace. Through the timeless practice of the Jesus Prayer, may our hearts radiate the Peace that can only come from Jesus. May this Advent season be filled with joy that surpasses all understanding. Stay tuned for more insights as we journey together towards the manager. “Peace I give to you; my peace I leave with you.” (John 14:27, NRSV)
Go at the Jesus Prayer below and tell us how you got on!
Advent – Hope
Seeking Hope in Challenging Circumstances
How do you discover hope amidst challenging circumstances? I often struggle to find hope when facing difficulties, or even looking at the state of the world. In such moments, I rely on faith, trusting that God is by my side. Hope is something deeper than just a wish or happy thoughts. Hope, as many have articulated, is a profound concept.
Wisdom from Philosophers and Authors
Aristotle eloquently described hope as a “waking dream.” In JRR Tolkien’s Fellowship of the Ring, there’s a reflection on hope and love persisting even in the darkest corners of the world: “The world is indeed full of peril, and in it, there are many dark places; but still there is much that is fair, and though in all lands love is now mingled with grief, it grows perhaps the greater.”
Illuminating Hope through Imperfections
Taking a more on-the-nose yet equally profound approach, Leonard Cohen expressed, “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in,” backing up that hope often emerges from the imperfections and challenges we face.
Hope in Lived Experiences
In my view, hope is not just a theoretical concept; it becomes meaningful through our lived experiences, especially when we find glimpses of light amidst darkness. Personally, I believe that this light is revealed by Jesus, who offers us genuine and vibrant hope for both the present and the future if we seek it.
Sharing Struggles and Seeking Hope Together
I wonder, do you struggle to see hope in your life? It’s okay to admit that finding hope can be challenging, especially in the face of adversity. Acknowledging this struggle is the first step toward understanding and embracing the complexities of hope. This is a place a think prayer can help with.
Advent Group Reflections
In our weekly advent group, we explore various prayers to center our hearts and minds on themes such as Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. This practice helps us cultivate a deeper understanding of these concepts and integrate them into our lives. This week we looked at hope. I HOPE you find this a helpful practice. Try it once a day for a week and let us know how you got on with it.
Easyfundraising
We’re now registered with easyfundraising, which means you can help the Mynydd Bedwellte Ministry Area for FREE.
Over 7,000 brands will donate to us when you use or easyfundraising to shop with them – at no extra cost to yourself! All you need to do is sign up and remember to use easyfundraising whenever you shop online.
Many charities and people are doing this as a great way to raise funds for causes that need support.
It’s easy and completely FREE! These donations mount up, so please sign up to support us at:
New Family Service in St Dingats New Tredegar
We have an exciting new group starting in St Dingats new Tredegar. We’ll be starting by exploring Christmas themes with fun games, music, and activities every Friday from 4pm to 5pm. It’s going to be great! Hope to see you there!
Coming and Becoming – Poem Joe Hasler
As we approach Advent and Christmas here is a poem from one of our ministers Joe Hasler. He has some wonderful poetry!
Coming and Becoming
Mum,
Where’re my socks?
Dad,
The tyre’s flat.
God
My life is in a mess!
I’m coming!
I’m coming!
God is always coming.
—000—
On page one.
The Spirits brooding
Over waters far from still,
Something comes
Out of nothing,
God is coming
And brings a world.
There is a bag
Full of things
That will make
a world.
It’s dropped.
Contents scattered.
And gently kneeling
Items placed
Creating order
Out of chaos
God is coming
Putting right
Misplaced pieces of this world.
Making new –
God is coming.
Making right –
Coming too.
Coming and becoming,
Making right and new.
God has always
From beginning
Been a coming
To the world.
Patriarchs,
Psalmist,
Prophets,
All shout
…..Or whisper,
‘He is coming
Coming in our world.’
—000—
Then a moment,
A Palestinian stable,
A baby there
From Mary born,
God made flesh,
A becoming,
A God incarnate child.
Another moment,
By Jordan River,
A man is there.
And Jesus with the Baptist
By the Spirit is encompassed.
God incarnate,
Shown in human flesh!
I’m coming!
I’m coming!
Gains a prefix.
The oft used words of Jesus,
‘Fear not’.
‘I’ve come
And still am coming
Becoming the Kingdom
I will live.
Fear not
I’m coming
Is the story
Even in the pages
Where death is sharp.
Even then
The Jesus leaving
Is a coming
Of new life.
—000—
‘Amen’.
Another oft used Jesus word
Is added
To the sentence.
‘Amen!’
Or ‘Yes!’
Or ‘And for me’,
Completes the message
That God brings.
‘I’m coming.
Fear not.
Amen.’
Speaks all the words
We need to hear
To make his coming
Our becoming
Eradicating fear.
Joe Hasler Advent 2015