This weekend I was in Oxford to read the 6th lesson in an Advent Lessons & Carols service for the Oxford branch of the Prayer Book Society. The text that I read is one that touches me deeply, as a woman and as a mother. The verses from Luke, chapter 1, describe the moment that Mary, espoused and yet still a virgin, is told by the angel Gabriel that she will bear the son of God. Take a moment to ponder that thought. How would any of us react to such a mighty proclamation? Den

Why then would anyone, whether Christian or not, wish to take heed of this significant moment in the Christian calendar year?