Epiphany candle service

Parishioners at St Mary’s Church in Langley gathered for a Christingle service on Sunday. Originally a Moravian Church tradition, the Christingle was introduced to Britain in the 1960s by the Children’s Society. Worshippers are given a candle to hold, centred in an orange and decorated with sweets and fruits and wrapped with a red band. The orange represents the world. The red ribbon symbolises the love and blood of Christ. The sweets and dried fruit represent all of God’s creations and the lit candle represents Jesus’s light in the world, bringing hope to people living in darkness. Christingle is usually associated with Advent, but can be held around Epiphany on January 6. The service was conducted by the rector Steven Hughes and raised more than £200 in donations for the Children’s Society. will take place in the room at Holy Cross Church on Friday January 20 from 10am-11.45am. Cost £1. For details phone Debbie on 07444 539171. Correspondent: Sue Whiteoak Tel: 01634 660097 susanwhiteoak@ talktalk. net Pantomime : First weekend tickets for January 20-22 are available for the United Players’ 37th annual pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk at St William’s Church, village centre. Afternoon and evening performances available, £8 adults, concessions £6 and group discounts available. Check out the website www.unitedplayers.co.uk or book on 07857 898178. Mid-week walk: Maidstone Ramblers will be leading an 11 mile mid-week walk from Blue Bell Hill Picnic Site GR TQ743621 at 10am on Wednesday, January 18. The route will be via Detling and Eccles with a lunch stop at The Kings Arms, Boxley village (food available) (GR TQ 773590). Pace of the circular walk is moderate with one ascent of the Downs at the end and finishes approximately 4pm. Assistance dogs only. Open to all, you do not have to belong to The Ramblers! Contact Del on 07931 337461. Quiz tickets available: Today (Friday): Tomorrow (Saturday):