An Abhainn

A Limerick City Parish Newsletter

Winter 2024 Vol 6 Issue 3

www.lcp.limerick.anglican.org
[email protected]
From the Dean

Dear Parishioners,

Something to think about…

One must still have chaos in oneself to be able to give birth to a dancing star.
Friedrich Nietzsche

Christmas Reflection – Out of chaos

We live in a world of chaos… wars, conflicts, greed, hunger, political upheaval.
The news and social media feed up constantly with messages of doom and gloom.
And then someone reminisces about the ‘good old days’ – it wasn’t that bad in
my day!

I’m sure many of you will have looked at the wonderful shop display in the
premises formerly occupied by Billy Higgins on Henry Street – in doing so I’m
sure there was a certain amount of nostalgia. We might even shed a tear at how
Christmases in the past were so much better. But it seems we humans have an
amazing capacity to block out the bad news stories, we constantly will for the
good. After all, in living memory we have seen in every decade of the last 100
years wars, conflicts, power struggles, famines.

And now in this month of December, we look to the greatest story ever told and
right there amidst gold, frankincense and myrrh is utter chaos. A displaced family,
a teenage pregnancy, a selfish king on the warpath and a birth in the most unlikely
of places. In the story of Christmas, everything is turned upside down …
everything is thrown into chaos. There are echoes here of the first days of
creation and us wanting God to create order. In the nativity, in the midst of all
the upset, all the chaos, it is a new-born child who simply by his birth brings calm,
order, and a peace beyond all human understanding. A peace that penetrates
every heart that permits it entry. Now more than ever, we need that peace, and
I pray that this Christmas you may know that peace and love amidst all the chaos.
The Dean’s Discretionary Fund is used to give a helping hand to those in financial
difficulties within our parish and community. If you are fortunate enough to be
able to help supplement this fund please send your donation to me marked
‘Dean’s Discretionary Fund’ (or if you wish for the parish to receive a tax refund
on the donation, please make your donation through the Treasurer, Mr Frank
Sheahan).

Christmas in Limerick City Parish

This edition of the newsletter covers the month of December and all the activities
associated with Advent and Christmas. It is a special time of the year when family
and friends gather to celebrate and relax. For those travelling to Limerick this
December - they are very welcome in any of our churches! A full outline of
Christmas services may be found inside.

Finally, to those for whom Christmas is not a particularly joyful time - I hope that
you may find that peace & love which only the Christ child gives to all of us.
A happy and blessed Christmas to you all,

With every blessing,

Dean & Rector

From the Editor

Dear All,

During a recent conversation with my 85 year old father, he said that all he wants
to be remembered for is “For being kind”, this from a man who is always ready
to make others laugh, who has won awards and has on numerous occasions been
acknowledged by his peers for the work he has done over the past 60 plus years.

Over the past year or two, kindness has often been the topic of An Abhainn and
I would once again like to mention it to you all. These days, we so often hear of
the violence and abuse happening around us, we see and hear unkind thoughts on
social media and witness it on the side lines in every day school sports, the
examples are multiple.

My message to one and all this Christmas, is to firstly accept the kindness that
others might offer you, acknowledge that you had been the recipient of a kind act
and then to also please be kind to others and also be kind to yourself.
Kindness spreads like a ripple and both giving and receiving, bring so much inner
joy. But there are times you might have to say “No, I can’t do this” or “I need
time out to grieve” or “Go for a walk to re-energise myself” and that is okay too.
Wishing you a joyous Christmas and may kindness surround you throughout
2025.

Jeanne
Parish news and updates
CONTACT DETAILS
• The Very Rev’d Niall J. Sloane (Dean): The Deanery, 7 Kilbane, Castletroy
Email: [email protected] ; Tel: 061-338697. Day off: Friday

• Clergy Emergency Number: Tel: 087-3524046. (Strictly Emergency Calls

Only).

• The Parish Office: Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Bridge Street, Limerick, V94 E068.
Email: [email protected] ; Tel: 061-310293.

The Parish Panels (Safeguarding Trust) Responsibilities include:

- interviewing persons willing to serve as workers in the parish
- advising workers on their responsibilities in respect of the Code
- advising the Select Vestry in respect of its responsibilities
The Parish Panel Members are:
The Dean
Ms Ros Stevenson
Mr Kieran Sparling
From the registers....
Holy Baptism

1st September 2024 (in Saint Mary’s) – Charles Thomas Peirce,

son of Colin and Claire.

20th October 2024 (in Saint Mary’s) – Ella Little

Confirmation

20th October 2024 (in Saint Mary’s) – 6 candidates

Congratulations

● To Niall and Noreen Johnston who

recently became grandparents with the birth of Samuel. A son for Jason &
Gillian.
th
● To Val & Gloria Casey who recently celebrated their 40 wedding
anniversary.
● To our former Dean and Bishop, the Rt Rev’d Walton Empey who recently
celebrated a ‘significant’ birthday.
● To Sylvia Cowpar on the recent birth of her great grandson
● To Naomi and Kian Guihen on the recent birth of their son
● To Paul Clayton on his marriage to Christina

Considering Marriage? Weddings are very special occasions in

the life of any family and in the life of the church. When considering
getting married please check possible dates with the Rector before
confirming arrangements. It is expected that couples will make a
regular commitment to the life of the church in preparation for
marriage.

Sympathy
We extend our sympathy, thoughts and prayers to:

- to Nicola Meade a great friend and supporter of Abington church on the

death of her mother, Valory in the USA.
- Tristan Kessler, his children (Zephyr, Mason and Connie) and the wider
family on the untimely death of Tristan’s wife, Jean Conlon.
- Anne & Pip Cullen and their family on the death of Anne’s brother.
- Ian & Meghan Mulvey and their family on the death of Ian’s father, John
- Dr Tom Peirce and his family on the recent death of his niece

We hold them all in our thoughts and prayers at this time.

Oliver Deegan
We extend our warmest congratulations to Oliver who was recently
commissioned as a Prayer Minister in the Cathedral. Every blessing to Oliver in
this new phase of ministry.

Harvest
Many thanks to our Choirs, Music Directors, the boys & girls from Saint Michael’s
School, and the Flower Guilds who decorated our Churches with artistic flair and
all who enhanced our worship during this autumn season. Our preacher was
received, and we thank the Rev’d Stephen Neil for his inspiring reflection. As we
come to the end of the season of Harvest may we always take time to pause each
day to give God thanks for ‘all good gifts around us’.

Date for the diary

The Epiphany Carol Service will be held in the Cathedral on:

Sunday 19th January 2024 at 7pm.

Healer prayer group: This group was active in the parish some years ago and
the Dean is exploring the idea of restarting it. The group would probably meet
once a month in the Cathedral to pray for the sick and those in need. They might
also partake in the study of some Bible passages. If you are interested please let
the Dean know.
The next gathering will be on Thursday 9th January at 2.30pm in St Mark's Chapel
(Cathedral).
The Evergreens
Had an interesting afternoon recently with Drs Helene Bradley Davies & Ursula
Callaghan of the Mary Immaculate College Oral History Centre. These two
researchers are collecting oral history reminiscences of Limerick people and
would love to have further material for their next collection. A project on
memories of shops and shopping in Limerick City started in May 2018 -
coordinated by Dr Bradley-Davies and Dr Cronin who were joined by Dr Ursula
Callaghan and supported by Limerick City and County Council. All three
researchers are now working on a follow-up to that publication and are interested
in hearing from anyone who would like to share their memories. Ursula Callaghan
can be contacted through her e-mail address which is: [email protected] or on
her mobile phone the number of which is: 086 342087.
The Evergreens also had their Winter Lunch at Aubergine, Croom, Co. Limerick
on Tuesday, 25th November.
All are welcome to attend our gatherings.

GENERAL ITEMS

Advent and Christmas

A full listing of services and events is available in the Churches or on the Cathedral
website. Also see the last page of this news letter.

Dates for the diary (all events in St Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick)

- The Advent Procession - Sunday 1st December at 7pm.
- Come & Sing Carols – Saturday 14th December at 5.30pm
- The Epiphany Carol Service - Sunday 19th January 2024 at 7pm.

Contact details
We have a number of people with eircom.ie e-mail
addresses in the contact lists. These addresses are
no longer active so emails bounce back. If you would like
to update your contact details please email [email protected]
St Michael’s Whist Drives
Venue: St Michael’s Church Hall. Time: 7.30pm. Admission: €8. Meetings on 7th
December; 4th January; 8th February and 8th March. Looking forward to seeing
you all.

Whist Drives in Villiers Square

All Saturdays, 14th December, 18th January, 22nd February, 22nd March. All Whist
Drive start at 19:15 hours sharp! Any queries please contact Hilary Park on
0868430024.

2025 Bible Reading Notes: The Irish supplier of the BRF notes would like to
have our order for 2025. Unfortunately, there will be an increase in the cost of
the magazine to €19.50 per year plus postage of €2.50. Could regular readers
please let me know if you don’t want to continue taking the notes. Orders from
new readers are most welcome. Please contact me on 087 2200216. Margaret
Schutz.

Works in St Michaels
Building works in St Michael’s are on-going, but we are glad to be back in the
Church for services. Many thanks to all those involved in the works and clean-
up, not least Trevor Lyttle and Richard Brickenden who have done a huge amount
of work behind the scenes.

Glenstal
We extend our prayerful good wishes to the new abbot of Glenstal, Abbot
Columna McCann who received his abbatial blessing on All Saints’ Day, 1 st
November

MU Harvest Supper
Thank you to the organisers and supporters of this very sociable and enjoyable
event. Over €600 was raised from the vent for overseas charitable purposes.

Limerick City Parish Eco-theology Group: Keep an

eye on the notice board in the Church on news and
updates Limerick City Parish is helping the environment
and supporting a great cause – "Batteries for Barretstown."
Recycling tubes for your used batteries can be found in
each of the three churches. Get collecting, and drop them
in!
Barnardos
Claire Jackson continues to collect used postage stamps
for delivery to the Irish children's charity Barnardos
where they are most gratefully received. A huge thank you
to those who take the trouble to save such stamps and a
word of encouragement to others to do so!!!

Parish Archives
We are looking for any photos, information or historical artefacts relating to
any of the churches in Limerick City Parish. If you have any such records,
please contact the Dean.

Readers & Intercessors: If you would be interested in reading at services

and/or leading the Prayers of the People at Parish Communion once a month
please speak to a member of the Clergy.

Cumann Gaeilge na hEaglaise/The Irish Guild of the Church:

Anyone interested in the Irish language and its role
within the life of the Church of Ireland is invited to
speak with a member of the Clergy team.

Thursdays in Black: Resistance and Resilience:

The campaign is simple but profound. Wear black on

Thursdays - declare you are part of the global movement
resisting attitudes and practices that permit rape and
violence. Show your respect for women who are resilient
in the face of injustice and violence. Encourage others to
join you. Often black has been used with negative racial
connotations. In this campaign Black is used as a colour of
resistance and resilience.
St Michael’s Hall
For booking enquiries please contact the Hall Manager, Oliver Deegan.
Hospital Visiting
The Clergy would appreciate being told if parishioners are in hospital, going into
hospital, are being transferred or if they have been discharged, and will be
pleased to offer pastoral support. A selection of prayers is available from them
or in the Church porches.
CHILDREN & YOUTH

Children’s Ministry
We are grateful to the leaders of our Sunday Club who have organised a wide
range of events and activities for the coming months. Children who wish to
remain in church can avail of the Children’s packs at the back of the church
and/or follow along in our Parish Communion services with the ‘I can join in the
Holy Communion Service’ booklets.

Children are always welcome at our services and junior activities!

Sunday School
Will meet in the Cathedral on the 3rd Sunday. Godly play will run in Abington on
the 2nd and 4th Sundays. All children of primary school age and under are very
welcome to attend. If any post primary children would be willing to help
out with children’s activities, please speak with the Dean.

Saint Michael’s National School

The Clergy are delighted to lead weekly assemblies in out Parish school and we
are looking forward to the blessing of the bags at the opening of term service in
the Church.

Livestreaming

Log onto www.churchservices.tv/limerickstmarys

Services will be on air at 11.15am on Sundays and
10.30am on Thursdays.
NEWS FROM THE CATHEDRAL

The Cathedral shop is selling bespoke decorations, Christmas cards, etc. A

special feature is a stand with products from a number of parishes across the
diocese. Please drop in to have a browse.

Estonian Inauguration
The Cathedral was honoured to host the inauguration of the new Estonian consul
to Limerick & the mid-West, Ms Julie Long. Julie is a great supporter of the
Cathedral and we were delighted to play a small part in her special day. At the
event Julie was joined by the Mayor, the Estonian Ambassador to Ireland, Civic
Representatives, as well as other Consuls from across the State. We wish Julie
well in this new role.
Cork Choir
We were delighted to host the Choir of St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Cork at services
in the Cathedral on Sunday 17th November. The choir joined our own choir for
morning and afternoon services, as well as having an opportunity to socialise over
lunch.

Robes Keeper
The Dean and Organist are looking for someone who would be interested in
helping look after the choir robes in the Cathedral. More information from the
Dean.

Cathedral Choir recruitment

We are currently in the process of recruiting new singers to start in the Cathedral
choir in September, so if you know of anyone who likes singing and who might be
interested in joining the choir do please encourage them to be in touch with the
Choirmaster and Organist, Peter Barley.
ACR visit
The Anglican Centre in Rome is effectively the embassy of the Anglican
Communion to the Holy See. The Centre is overseen by a Board of Governors
of which our own bishop is Chair. In the last week of November, the Governors
(who hail from the USA, Italy, the UK and Australia) met in Limerick. The
Director of the Centre, Archbishop Ian Ernest preached in the Cathedral and
planted a tree in the grounds to mark the visit. The Governors also had a meal
in the Cathedral at which Church of Ireland and Ecumenical representatives also
attended. The meal concluded with compline which was led by the Cathedral
Choir.

The Cathedral Graveyard: We are fortunate to have such a beautiful and

peaceful space right in the middle of the city. In recent times the grounds have
been enhanced by the inclusion of a wild-flower garden, new seating and planting.
If you would like to make a donation towards the upkeep of the grounds, please
do so through the Cathedral office or contact Lindsay Boyle or the Dean.
Volunteer list for Cathedral
The Dean would be glad to hear from anyone who is available to be included on
a volunteer list for Cathedral events that require extra help at the door, in setting
up chairs, and other activities. Please let the Dean or the Cathedral office know
if you’d be willing to be on this rota and be contacted occasionally when large
events are being held.

Farewell to Dr Madden

On Sunday 15th September the parish paid its farewell to the curate, the Rev’d Dr
Leonard Madden. Dr Madden was instituted rector of Bray on 19 th. Following
Choral Eucharist at which he celebrated and preached, presentations were made
to him and his wife, Dr Catherine Smith. We shall miss them, but wish them
God’s richest blessing in this next chapter of ministry.
Harvest
Services across the parish were held to give thanks for the riches of creation. We
thank all those who helped in decorating, supplying produce and enhancing the
worship with musical elements. We are also grateful to our preachers, Canon
Jane Galbraith and the Rev’d Stephen Neill, both former curates in the parish who
delivered inspiring messages to our congregations.

Harvest in Abington
Harvest in St Michaels and Harvest in the Cathedral
Activities IN Abington

Our Annual Christmas lunch in Pa McGrath’s

Carol Service
A Glass Of Milk

One day a poor boy, who was selling goods from

door to door to pay his way through school, found
he had only one thin dime left, and he was
hungry. He decided he would ask for a meal at the
next house. However, when a lovely young woman
opened the door, he lost his nerve and instead of
asking for a meal, he asked for a drink of water.
The young lady thought that he looked hungry, so she
brought him a large glass of milk instead. He drank it
very slowly, and then asked, “How much do I owe
you?”

“You do not owe me anything,” she replied. “Mother has taught us to

never accept pay for a kindness done.”
“Then I thank you, from the bottom of my heart,” he said
As Howard Kelly left that house, he not only felt stronger physically, but his
faith in God and man was also strengthened. He had been ready to give up and
quit, but was given the courage to go on.
Years later that young woman became critically ill. The local doctors were
baffled, and they finally sent her to the big city where they called in specialists to
study her rare disease. Dr. Howard Kelly was called in for consultation.
When he heard the name of the town she came from, a strange light filled his
eyes. Immediately he rose and went down the hall of the hospital to her
room. Dressed in his doctor’s gown, he bent over to look at her, and he
recognized her at once. He returned to his office determined to do his best to
save her life.
From that day on he gave special attention to the case, and after a long
struggle, the battle was won. On the day that his patient was to be discharged
from the hospital, Dr. Kelly requested the business office to pass the final bill to
him for approval. He looked it over, and then wrote something on the edge of
the bill and sent it to her room. She was afraid to open it, for she was sure it
would take the rest of her life to pay for such a long and expensive hospital stay
as hers had been. Finally, she could endure the suspense no longer, and she
opened the bill. Something scribbled in the margin caught her eye, and she read
these words: “Paid in full with one glass of milk.” And it was signed by Dr.
Howard Kelly.
 Tears of joy flooded her eyes as her happy heart prayed, “Thank You, God,
that your love has spread abroad through human hearts and hands.”
Each day as we pass through our humble lives, we never know when a
kind touch, a word of encouragement and cheer or a humble act of generosity
might give a discouraged, hurting human being just the lift that will make the
difference in his or her life. Our harsh words can destroy someone and make
them lose hope. Let us be like Jesus and show his love to those around us.
Kindness
Sermon by Mark Dunagan | [email protected]
Beaverton Church of Christ | 503-644-9017
www.beavertonchurchofchrist.ne

Kindness
Put it On
I find it interesting the language that the Holy Spirit used when addressing the need to
develop various attributes in our lives as Christians:
• “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of
compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12).
• “And put on the new self….be kind to one another” (Ephesians 4:24; 32).
The phrase “put on” carries the idea of clothing oneself. It is as if Paul is saying, “When
you wake up each morning remember to get dressed spiritually and emotionally as well
as physically”. Or, when we wake up each morning we need to be wise about the
attitude that we select to wear for the day. It probably would be a good idea to
contemplate in the morning, “What kind of attitude am I going to wear
today?” Observe that kindness, as well as all the other attitudes and behaviours in this
section are choices that we make.
Kindness
Has been described as love in action. It is not something merely emotional, rather, it is
practical, visible and active. I have been told that there is a song that says, “Find the
need and fill it. Find the hurt and heal it”. That seems to be a good description of
kindness. Thus, the command is not to merely feel like being kind, put to actively be
kind (Ephesians 4:32).
Motivation
“But why should we be kind? After all, kindness can be risky. We might be
misunderstood if we are kind to others. They might think, ‘Why is this person being
so nice?’ What is in it for him?’ People we are kind to also might take advantage of
us” (God’s Power to Change Your Life, Rick Warren p. 120). Yet God faced even far
more risks of being kind. A couple people may take advantage of our kindness, but
billions have taken advantage of God’s continual kindness, yet He was still kind to
mankind. If we are tempted to stop being kind because someone might abuse our
kindness, ask yourself, “Do you want God having the same attitude?” Do you want
God withholding His kindness to you because of what others are doing or not
doing? The poet Robert Burns said that the kind heart most resembles God. We
should be kind because God has been so kind to us. On a daily basis we continually
benefit from His kindness.
• “But when the kindness of God our Saviour and His love for mankind appeared”
(Titus 3:4).
• “He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ
Jesus” (Ephesians 2:7).
The Need for Kindness in the World
In a world where men and women can be lovers of self, arrogant, ungrateful to parents,
gossips, unreasonable, and brutal (2 Timothy 3:2-4) kindness will always been greatly
needed and appreciated. We tend to forget that many of the people that we will
encounter on a weekly basis have been at the receiving end of such evil. They may
have been raised by very selfish parents, or work for someone who is very
unreasonable. Kindness will be like a breath of fresh air to them. In addition, Solomon
exhorted his son, “Do not let kindness and truth leave you, bind them around your
neck, write them on the tablet of your heart” (Proverbs 3:3). The idea is that loving
the truth and being kind are two indispensable qualities.
Kindness is Good For Me
We do personally benefit when we are kind and I am not merely talking about that
people will tend to be nice to us if we are nice to them.
• “He who pursues righteousness and loyalty finds life, righteousness and honour”
(Proverbs 21:21).
• “The merciful man does himself good, but the cruel man does himself harm”
(Proverbs 11:17).
The Elements of Kindness
• Sensitivity
People who are practicing kindness are aware of the needs of those around them. “Do
not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of
others” (Philippians 2:4). Underline the phrase “look out”. Kindness starts with
getting my mind off myself and my problems and noticing what others are experiencing.
 • Be Supportive
Especially, we need to be supportive with our words.
One of the first places to put kindness into action is in our speech:
• “A soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit”
(Proverbs 15:4).
• “The lips of the righteous bring forth what is acceptable” (Proverbs 10:32).
• “But the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Proverbs 12:18).
• “And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue” (Proverbs 31:27).
When we realize how kind God has been to
us, and how fortunate we are to be alive and
saved, it is easier to be kind with our
words. When a person is not aware of their
blessings it is far easier to be cutting, hurtful
with words and always running other people
down.

• Sympathy
I know that we often feel unqualified to help people who are hurting and that such
situations may seem awkward to us, but they probably seem awkward at times to most
people. Yet kindness can express itself not only verbally to also in a touch on the
shoulder, a pat on the back, or a gasp of the hand. Paul said that the one of the qualities
of someone who is the Lord’s servant is that they are kind to all (2 Timothy 2:24). What
this means is that people who are spiritual take time for those who are hurting or
struggling.
• Straightforward
Sometimes kindness realizes that there is the need to be frank or candid. Telling
someone the truth, laying it on the line or levelling with people is also a demonstration
of kindness. Solomon noted, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend” (Proverbs
27:6). Paul told the Galatians, “So have I become your enemy by telling you the truth”
(Galatians 4:16). There are times to tell someone, “You are ruining your marriage” or
“You are about to make a big mistake”. Kindness really cares. “Sometimes I want to
ask couples in counselling when they are going to care enough and get mad and say, ‘I
want our marriage to work, and I’m not going to put up with this mess!’” (Warren pp.
129-130). Observe, “Being straightforward does not mean offering a ‘hit-and-run’ type
of comment. Kindness will speak up when necessary but kindness will equally stick
around and help this person change.
 • Be Spontaneous
There are times we can plan kindness and there will be times that the opportunity to
be kind simply arrives without any planning on our part (The Good
Samaritan). Flexibility is a must. In addition, now the is the time (Galatians 6:10). Do
not put off the opportunity to say a kind thing, write a kind note or express kindness. A
common enemy of kindness is busyness.
The Past Makes It Difficult to be Kind?
I don’t believe that such an excuse will fly with God. Joseph had a very difficult past
and yet he was kind (Genesis 50:19-21).
For the children…
Edible gift ideas
Christmas muffin mix
Ingredients
300g self-raising flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground mixed spice
100g pecan or walnuts
140g tropical dried fruit
100g light muscovado sugar
Method
Step 1
Layer all the ingredients in a 1 litre glass or plastic preserving jar in the order the
ingredients are listed.
Step 2
Write the following method on a gift label: ‘Tip the contents of the jar into a large
mixing bowl. Make a well in the centre and add 2 beaten eggs, 300ml/½pt milk
and 100g/4oz melted butter. Mix quickly and lightly to a soft batter. Divide
between 12 muffin cases. Bake at 190C/fan 170C/gas 5 for 18-20 mins. Use within
4 weeks.’
Attach the label and a wooden spoon to the top of the jar with some raffia or
coloured ribbon.
Last minute recipes
Snowflake pretzels
200g white chocolate chips for cooking or
white candy melts,

32 mini pretzels (about 45 g)

White or silver sprinkles

Method
Step 1

Put a sheet of baking parchment or a non-stick tray liner on a baking tray. Melt
the chocolate or candy melts carefully in a microwave or in a bowl set over a pan
of simmering water – don’t let any water get into the bowl or allow the base of
it to touch the water. Turn off the heat but leave the bowl on the pan. Add the
pretzels and stir well.

Step 2

Lift the pretzels out of the chocolate with a fork, shaking them a little so the
excess chocolate drips off, then put them on the tray and in the freezer for 5 mins
to set. Dip the pretzels in the chocolate again, then lay four at a time together on
the tray and push them together, with the pointy ends in the centre, to make a
snowflake shape. Add a blob more chocolate with the end of a teaspoon in the
middle of each snowflake so they hold together when set. Before they set,
decorate with the sprinkles. Leave somewhere cold to set completely – you can
use the freezer if you want to speed up the process.
Hot Chocolate Stirrers
Ingredients
sunflower oil
for greasing
300g dark, milk or white
chocolate (or a mixture),
broken into squares

To decorate
selection of chocolate buttons, hundreds and thousands

You will need:

6 cupcake cases, pencil, pastry brush, 6 empty 47g fromage frais pots (washed and
dried), 6 wooden lolly sticks, cellophane and string or ribbon for wrapping, 6 gift tags

Push a small hole in the middle of the cupcake cases with a pencil and put aside
for later.

1. Dip the pastry brush in the sunflower oil and paint a very thin layer of oil over
the insides of the fromage frais pots.

2. Put the chocolate in a bowl and heat in the microwave in 30-sec bursts until
runny, stirring after each blast. Or melt it in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of
simmering water (get an adult to help you). If you’re using different types of
chocolate, you should melt them separately.

3. Carefully pour the melted chocolate into the pots. Put a lolly stick in the middle
of each and sprinkle your chosen decorations around it.

4. Sit a cake case on top of each pot so that it covers the chocolate and the stick
pokes through the hole. Put them in the fridge to set overnight.

5. The next day, carefully pull the chocolates out of the pots and throw away the
paper cases. Wrap each in cellophane tied with string and write a tag to read:
‘Simply stir into hot milk.’
Cheesy sprout gratin (vegetarian dish)
Ingredients

600g brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved if large

1 tbsp olive oil
50g unsalted butter
2 banana shallots, finely chopped
50g plain flour750ml semi skimmed milk
100ml double cream
1 tbsp English mustard
150g mature vegetarian cheese, grated
40g dried breadcrumbs (panko work well)
2 thyme sprigs, leaves picked
60g blanched hazel nuts, roughly chopped

Method
Step 1
Bring a large pan of lightly salted water to the boil. Tip in the sprouts and cook
for 3 mins, then drain and set aside to steam-dry.
Step 2
Heat the oil and butter in a medium saucepan until the butter is foaming, add the
shallots and cook over a low heat for 7 mins or until softened. Stir in the flour
and cook for 2 mins. Remove from the heat and whisk in the milk in several pours,
continuously whisking until you get a smooth sauce. Return to the heat and
simmer for 2 mins, whisking all the time. Whisk through the cream, mustard and
cheddar. Season to taste. Heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7.
Step 3
Toss together the dried breadcrumbs, thyme leaves and hazelnuts. Tip the
sprouts into a deep 30 x 20cm ovenproof dish and pour over the sauce. Top with
the nutty breadcrumbs. Will keep in the fridge for up to 24 hrs. Bake in the centre
of the oven for 20-25 mins or until golden brown and bubbling. Leave to rest for
at least 10 mins before serving.
Chocolate & Cherry Christmas pudding (A twist on
traditional Christmas pudding)

Prep: 40 mins Cook:2 hrs and 30 mins plus several hours cooling Serves 10 - 12

For the pudding

200g frozen dark sweet cherries
defrosted, plus extra cherries, left
whole, to decorate the pudding
1 Conference pear
100g raisins
100g sultanas
100ml brandy
100g bar dark chocolate
100g unsalted butter
plus 2 tbsp for greasing
2 large eggs For the chocolate brandy sauce
50g plain flour 100g bar dark chocolate
100g dark soft brown sugar 120ml double cream
1 tsp mixed spice 2 tbsp golden syrup
1 tbsp cocoa powder
3 tbsp brandy (optional)
50g fresh breadcrumbs
Method
1. Drain the cherries in a sieve over a bowl. Cut them in half. Peel the pear, then
grate it coarsely.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cherries, pear, the raisins, sultanas and brandy.
Stir well and cover with clingfilm.
3. Heat in the microwave on high for 3 mins, then leave to cool for 5 mins to let
the fruit plump up. Break the chocolate into squares while you wait.
4. Tip the chocolate and butter into the hot fruit. Stir, then leave to melt. Let it
cool, uncovered, for about 15 mins.
5. Meanwhile, rub 1 tbsp butter around the inside of a 1-litre pudding basin.
6. Lay two sheets of foil over each other and butter the one on top. Holding both
sheets together, fold a 3cm pleat across the middle of the foil and set aside.
7. Beat the eggs together in a small bowl. Sift the flour, sugar, mixed spice and
cocoa powder on top of the chocolatey fruit, then add the breadcrumbs, eggs and
¼ tsp salt.
8. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon – it will be quite a wet mixture.
Tip it into the buttered basin.
9. Cover the pudding with the buttered foil (buttery-side down), and scrunch it
over the edge of the basin. Tie string tightly under the lip of the basin, and make
a string handle to help you lower the basin in and out of the saucepan later.
10. Trim the foil so that a frill of about 5cm is left sticking out, then tuck the frill
up and under itself neatly. The aim is to keep the pudding watertight beneath.
11. Put a heatproof saucer into the very large saucepan, then put the basin on
top. Pour in just-boiled water to come halfway up the basin.
12. Cover the pan and steam the pudding for 2½ hrs. Test the pudding is cooked
by inserting a skewer through the foil – if there is any wet mixture, steam for 15
mins more then check again. The pan should be simmering rather than boiling
hard. Top up the water levels as it cooks, if you need to.
13. To store, let the pudding cool and leave in a cool dark place to mature. Don’t
unwrap the foil. You can make this pudding up to two months before eating.
14. To reheat, steam in a pan for 30 mins, or microwave on medium for 5 mins.
Remove the foil to microwave, covering with clingfilm instead.
15. For the sauce, break the chocolate into squares. Put all the ingredients in a
small pan and heat gently, stirring, until smooth. Serve the pudding topped with
any remaining cherries, the sauce and a dollop of double cream.

MAKE-AHEAD
This pudding can be made up to two months in advance.
Air-fryer Soy & Cranberry chicken wings

Prep:5 mins Cook:20 mins - 40 mins Serves 8

1kg chicken wings
3 tbsp soy sauce
6 tbsp cranberry sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
2 garlic cloves
crushed
2 tsp ginger paste
or freshly grated ginger
2 tsp vegetable oil
Method
Step 1
Pat the chicken wings dry using a clean tea towel or kitchen paper (this helps
ensure the wings crisp up). Heat the air-fryer to 200C. Combine the soy sauce,
cranberry sauce, oregano, garlic, ginger and vegetable oil in a small bowl or jug.
Put the chicken wings in a large bowl, then spoon or pour over the cranberry
mixture.

Step 2
Toss everything together and mix well so the chicken wings are well coated. The
uncooked wings will keep frozen in an airtight container for up to three months.
Tip the wings into the air-fryer basket and cook for 15-20 mins at 200C (or 20-
25 mins at 180C from frozen), turning halfway through until cooked through and
beginning to brown at the edges. You may need to do this in two batches
depending on the size of your air-fryer.
Fire safety - Please read again, it is as important this year as it was in
2021,2022 and in 2023!

Christmas Trees
● Place real Christmas trees securely in a sturdy base
filled with water – metal stands cause trees to dry out and
become flammable
● Check water level daily
● Ensure artificial trees have been pre-treated to increase flame resistance
● Keep tree away from candles, heaters, fireplaces or other heat sources
● Dispose of tree properly – never burn a real tree in the fireplace

Christmas Lights

Indoors

● Only buy Christmas lights marked with a safety standard

● Don’t overload sockets
● Make sure a competent person checks all connections and examines the wiring for
fraying
● If in doubt, throw them out.
● Unplug all Christmas lights and electrical appliances before leaving your home or
going to bed

Outdoors

● Ensure lights are suitable for outdoor use

● Check all wiring and follow manufacturer’s instructions.
● Never use indoor extension leads outside.
● Fasten the bulbs securely and point the sockets down to avoid moisture building up.
● Keep outdoor electrical connections above ground and out of puddles and snow.
● Ensure trees hung with Christmas lights are not touching power lines.
Candles

Remember when it comes to candles:

● Keep them out of reach of children and pets

● Trim the wick to 6mm (1/4 inch) each time before burning
● Always use an appropriate candleholder placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface
● Keep burning candles away from drafts, vents and air currents
● Extinguish a candle if it smokes or flickers repeatedly or if the flame becomes
too high
● Keep the wax pool free of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times
● Do not burn a candle for longer than manufacturer recommends
● Extinguish the flame if it comes too close to the holder or container
● Place lighted candles at least 75mm apart form one another
● Never place a candle on top of a TV set and keep well away from curtains
● Always extinguish candles before leaving the house or going to bed
● Never use candles on Christmas trees, even artificial ones
● Remember hot wax burns!

Other Christmas Fire Safety Tips

● Never burn wrapping paper in your fireplace

● Keep strings of Christmas cards away from candles and open fires
● Fit a spark guard in front of open fires
● Extinguish cigarettes properly and do not let ashtrays get overfilled
● Check that your smoke alarms are in perfect working order
● Never remove batteries from smoke alarm to use in children’s toys
● Clean out the oven and stove prior to Christmas
Advent and Christmas 2024