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The Service of Nine Lessons & Carols
| St. Stephen's in the 21st Century |
| St. Stephen's has seen many changes over its
seven hundred years of existence. It is now seeing more changes, not
universally welcomed, but dictated by circumstances that include great
changes in social attitudes and a shortage of priests. Women are now
playing a much greater role in its organisational structure; they are
ordained into the priesthood, but in 2012 they still cannot become
Bishops. Few parishes have dedicated Vicars, many now operate on a Team
Ministry serving a group of Parishes. Despite the fall in numbers regularly attending Services when compared with ,say, a hundred years ago, and the fall in numbers of people getting married, the Church remains an important influence in the 21st Century, and in Winsham , St. Stephen's is still filled to capacity at Christmas and Easter and has a regular congregation on Sundays. Below are pictures taken at the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols held during the Christmas period in 2012. Click HERE for pictures taken at the Crib Service. |
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CHRISTMAS 2012 *** The Service of Nine Lessons & Carols |
| St. Stephens was filled to capacity on Sunday
23rd December. An annual event, this year the Choir was augmented by
some extra volunteers, who practised for weeks prior to the celebration.
But it was not only the choir that was in good voice-the congregation
joined with vigorous support for all the well known carols. The readers of the Lessons were all well known representatives of the various village and church organisations, and the lessons, as intended refreshed our memories of the full Christmas story. A welcome addition to the event was the serving of mulled wine and mince pies at the end of the service, which gave everyone the opportunity to wish one and other their best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Many will be leaving the village to spend time with their families; others will be entertaining family and friends at home. |
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