Since Christmas, we have been planning services and events for this year. First, though, a huge thank you to all the children at Bishop Henderson School in Coleford who entered our competition to paint a picture of the Nativity.

We were thrilled with the entries, which were displayed in church over Christmas, and we gave out four prizes. Joel and Summer in Owl Class (Reception) each won a £5 book token, as did George from Swallow (Year 4). The overall winner was Rebekah from Kestrel Class (Year 6), who won a £10 book token. For Christmas 2018, we shall be asking the children a little earlier, and the two overall winning entries will be used on the Christmas card which we send to everyone in the village.

St Andrew’s Church, Holcombe, is now open every Monday from 11 a.m. for an hour. This is an opportunity to come and have a cuppa and biscuits and a chat to people. Dogs and babies are very welcome, as indeed are people of all ages. There is no charge. The church is warm, but we do not yet have our loo.

Wednesday, 14th February is not only Valentine’s Day, but is also the start of Lent, the season of the year when we especially try to look at our lives and to come closer to God. With this in mind, we shall be holding special Ash Wednesday services at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 14th February in Holy Trinity, Coleford, and at 10 a.m. on Thursday, 15th February in St Andrew’s, Holcombe.

Jesus left us with just two commandments – to love God and to love our neighbour. During Lent we shall be loving our neighbour more by giving to the homeless. Our donations will go to Julian House in Bath, who run a hostel for homeless people and also help them on the path to living in a home. People may give donations via any church member, but we shall also be holding Lent Lunches.

These will take place in Coleford Church Hall at 12.30 a.m. on Fridays, 16th and 23rd February, and 9th, 16th and 23rd March. There will be soup and sandwiches and there will also be a raffle. All the money raised from our Lent lunches will go to Julian House.

On Friday, 23rd February at 7.30 p.m., St Andrew’s Church will be running a Beetle Drive in Holcombe Village Hall. This is something for all the family. There are four people on each table, and it is a very good opportunity to meet people because you move around tables, depending on whether you win or lose.

There will be a bar with nibbles, and also a raffle. It would be helpful to have an idea of numbers, and if you can ring: 01761 232140 and let Gay Curtis know if you are booking one or more tables, or joining us on your own, that would be very helpful.

For further information please contact Revd Clarissa Cridland, on: 01373 812705, or by email: [email protected]