The Advent & Christmas Edition of Parkside Post is now available! If you live in the parish of Wimbledon Parkside, a copy should be arriving through your door very shortly. If you can't wait, click here to access the digital version!

In her introduction, Revd Susan reflects on how Christmas, a time of joy and celebration for many of us, can be a challenging, sad and lonely time for many others. While we need not lose our sense of celebration, reaching out to those who are less fortunate or experiencing difficulty at this time of year, whether it be a neighbour or a distant relative living alone, or giving support to a local charity or good cause, is a way to share the very message of Christmas and change situations for the better through compassion and friendship.

Parkside Post has details of all our Advent and Christmas services at St Paul's for you to keep close to hand as well as a reminder of the regular opening hours of the church during the week. You are welcome to pay us a visit and experience the tranquillity and beauty of the church at any of these times. If you do drop in, take a moment to admire the carved Reredos to the rear of the high altar, which depicts a nativity scene. It is one of the finest examples of its kind in the country, made by the renowned 19th Century church decorators and furnishers C.E. Kempe, and installed in 1907. Also of note is the carved medieval-style wooden screen between the chancel and the nave, which was part of the original design and structure of the church from 1896, supporting a large and distinctive cross. We are planning to restore these outstanding artefacts, whose lustre has faded over time, to their former glory by cleaning and redecorating them. You can read more about the project in Parkside Post and there are details of how to contribute to the restoration fund, if you would like to do so.

You will find inside a delicious recipe for Christmas Truffles, a word game and a colouring page for the children, and lots of information about what is going on at St Paul's during Advent and Christmas. Events include a recital of Faure's Requiem by Putney Choral Society (Saturday 10th December) and the annual, much-loved carol concert for choir and audience by Wimbledon Choral Society (Saturday 17th December).

But first - and not least - please don't miss the St Paul's Christmas Fair on Saturday 19th November 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. It is a great opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit with lots to do for the kids. You will find some great, unique gifts as well as enjoy home-made baking and treats. Santa will be there too!  

Download your festive edition of Parkside Post here!