On a cold but bright morning we came together at 10 am for our family Service celebration of Candlemass. We started the service in the Parrish Rooms where we heard a reading from Malachi, and lit our candles. We then processed into the church singing 'At the name of Jesus' and continued our family Eucharist. The Sunday School children told us about the  traditions associated with this festival, including the presentation of our Lord in the temple the responses of Anna and Simeon, and its association with St Brigid, one of the patron saints of Ireland.
The choir sang the Nunc Dimittis in C major setting by CV Stanford.

After the service we gathered in the Rooms to see a side presentation of the building of the rooms put together from his own photographs by Richard Clark Adams, followed by the first showing of the Film 'A history of St Mary Our Lady Sidlesham' both were very well received and we enjoyed refreshments during the presentations. DVDs of the film are available to buy, please see the list in the church.

We hope you have your tickets for the french supper on the 16th of February, because we are already sold out!! We are all looking forwards to another of Hilary's excellent meals.

Online version of film available here >