Wonder - An Advent and Christmas Collection

It's the most wonderful time of the year - at least, that's what the song tells us. Yet, all too easily, the true meaning and impact of Christmas can be lost amongst the busyness of the season. In this profound and often humorous collection of reflections, monologues, poetry, sermons and sketches, Andy March invites us - whether we're lifelong Christians or new to faith - to take a fresh look at this world-changing story and become lost in wonder once again. From the introduction ... This book is the fusion of Andy March's passion for Christmas and for telling stories,and the result of a decade or so of my work in Church of England parish ministry. Most of these pieces have been written for church all-age and carol services as well as "ordinary" Sundays, and school services. They were written to be read aloud and performed, so you may want to try this yourself!Whether you're someone looking for fresh inspiration as you plan your own services, or a Christian looking for something to inspire your own worship and devotion, I hope this book is a blessing to you.Wonder is not designed to be read front-to-back like a novel. See it more as a selection box to be dipped into and enjoyed. Part 1 - Telling the storyA collection of monologues and sketches that seek to tell the familiar story in a new way, often from the perspective of the characters involved. These would be perfect for use in services and would work as stand-alone pieces. Part 2 - Proclaiming Good News - the message of Advent and ChristmasSermons I have preached over the years. The "Carols by Candlelight" sermons try to reflect the year's events in some way and link it to a particular aspect of the Good News of Christmas.Part 3 - Responding to the StoryPoetry, which often forms my personal expression of worship in this season. My greatest challenge as a "professional Christian" is that I can be so focused on communicating the Good News to others that I fail to appreciate its meaning for myself. These poems flow from those times when I stop, reflect and worship.Part 4 - Reflecting on the StoryAn Advent and Christmas devotional that starts on 1st December and ends 6th January, containing Bible verses I selected and reflections I wrote on Twitter. You may want to use this to accompany your own devotions, perhaps at the end of the day. "A one-stop shop for Christmas word feasting. An advent calendar of tasty word; a buffet of delectable sound bites. Don't get too fat, now, will you?" - Andy Kind, Comedian and Author (from the Foreword)