Amidst the tinsel and Christmas trees, we usually find space for a Poinsettia or two on our shelves at Christmastime. The Poinsettia is a vibrant plant, where the soft red leaves are the focus, more so than the blooms.

They were taken to America by a Mexican ambassador named Joel Roberts Ponsiett around 1825, where they were then spied by Robert Bruist, a Scottish-born author, in a botanical garden in Philadelphia. He then brought the plants to Scotland in 1830.

They are our quintessential Christmas plant, symbolizing renewal, whilst the shape of the leaves reminds us of the star of Bethlehem. They are said to be toxic to pets, but there is some debate about this. In any case, they are here to stay. We have had a love affair with them for a couple of centuries now, and can enjoy them in cream and pink also during our festive season, when they are guaranteed to lift the spirits.

Our spirits are always lifted at our Healing Services during the year. Last night in Chawton, we had our Christmas Healing Service, led by Rob Harvey. It was a beautiful, peaceful evening. We thank our healers so much for their dedication.

We also thank those who said prayers and gave readings to lift the energies. We also thank our music team, as well as our hospitality team, and all those who set up, break down, and wash up each week.

Prayer of the week

Please pray for the healers of the world and also the mediums who bring so much comfort through their messages. We hold in our thoughts also Dave Collins and Sue Ellis, who have more recently moved to Spirit, and who we have been blessed to know within our sphere.

Calendar up next.

Have a beautiful week!