This week Revd. Irene writes:

It was a privilege to lead the service at the Cenotaph in Hull on Remembrance Day last week. Gathering with people of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs, to remember, honouring the men and women who gave their lives in the service of our country, and all those who have suffered and sacrificed in the cause of peace and freedom. It was heartwarming to see the young cadets, what a delight to be with them, respectful mature young people – very proud of them.

In the Minster Fiona, our brilliant ‘flower lady,’ decorated the font with a wonderful remembrance display and Ann Wilkinson led the two minutes silence in the Minster 11a.m. on the 11th month.

Fiona has also been busy this week at our Grief Café. I have a reputation of ‘putting’ flowers on the table with little or no artistic flair so Fiona came to the rescue and demonstrated how we can arrange a small inexpensive bunch of flowers to look special. Everyone seemed to enjoy this opportunity so big ‘thank you’ to Fiona.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

GIRLS BRIGADE

This week lovely Becky, one of our great crochet teachers came back to make Gnomes for our Lord Mayors Christmas Display tree. The girls and Fudge made a big effort to complete their gnomes so that Viktoria had a few minutes to talk about remembrance linked to Psalm 147:3 He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds, and to make a few poppies to take home.

On Remembrance Sunday a small group stayed after the Sunday Service to read all the names in the Golden Book, Rev Rob started with a prayer, Dave Allum made sure the readers had lists to read in order and Verger Jon Completed the readings with For the Fallen Poem. This is a special tribute to those who lost their lives for our safety and future, as Olga said, each of these names was a real human being leaving behind sad families for the good of all. Fiona has also, as always produced a stunning Poppy Display in the Church. Gill Alden

CHRISTMAS AT THE MINSTER SHOP

This year’s Minster Christmas card is now out. A lovely picture of the nave looking extremely tidy with the Gaia. Peace on Earth is the theme. Very appropriate in such a troubled world. Single cards or packs of 6. There are packets in 10s of Christmas cards with Christian texts. Traditional advent calendars and candles along with a good selection of Christmas decorations and gifts. Come and have a look whilst stock is available. If I’m around on Sundays, please ask if you can’t get in during the week.
Sue McGaw

CHRISTMAS CEILIDH

Volunteer and Church family, Christmas Ceilidh. Bring your own supper - there will be a bar! Bring all the family, friends, neighbours ...
What is a ceilidh?
Pronounced kay-lee, the word descends from the Old Irish céle, in Gaelic literally translating as "visit". Today you can count on a ceilidh being music, lots of dances, lots of involvement, and a fabulous, fun night out.

Do I need to know the dances?

No! The whole point of a ceilidh is that everyone should be able to join in, irrespective of experience, age, and fitness. We will have a caller who'll explain the steps involved in each dance and keep you on track once the dance has started. There's often a range of experience amongst the dancers too, so if it's your first ceilidh, you're unlikely to be the only one treading the boards for the first time.

COLLECT CHRIST THE KING FOR THE Sunday next before Advent AND The first Sunday of Advent

23 November 2025

God the Father, help us to hear the call of Christ the King and to follow in his service, whose kingdom has no end; for he reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, one glory. AMEN

30 November 2025

Almighty God, as your kingdom dawns, turn us from the darkness of sin to the light of holiness, that we may be ready to meet you in our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN

READINGS 23 November

Psalm 46

Jeremiah 23:1-6

Luke 23:33-43

READINGS 30 November

Psalm 122

Isaiah 2:1-5

Matthew 24:36-44

PRAYERS FOR THE SUNDAY BEFORE ADVENT AND THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT

· We pray for our world and all the areas of conflict. Give wisdom to the leaders of nations that they may ‘seek the common good’.

· We pray for peace throughout the whole of the Middle East and for the Christians who are suffering persecution in many countries, especially Sudan and the Indian state of Rajasthan. Lord, protect them.

· We pray for the people of Ukraine and Russia and all those who have experienced loss of loved ones and homes, may know your comfort and peace. Father God may there be a change of heart for those who wish to prolong conflict for their own ends.

· We pray too for all those throughout the world living in fear and experiencing hunger, Lord may the leaders in all situations have compassion.

· We pray for our city of Hull that we will see help being given to those in dire need, especially as the colder weather sets in. Help us to play our part and contribute in order to relieve suffering.

· We pray for all the children involved in the variety of activities in the Minster. May they have an understanding of your love for them.

· We pray for all who have loved ones who are sick, or who have recently died that they may experience your healing. May they know your love and peace.

· Help us all to remember to be grateful for all that you have given for us and to share with others.