For the village of Stalmine, the Community Carols and Toy Service is a much-anticipated Christmas event. Following hot on the heels of the Lighting of the Christmas Tree, it is another opportunity for residents, church family, friends and neighbours to gather together to celebrate the season of goodwill to all men.
Pilling Jubilee Silver Band set a joyful tone to the proceedings. Their gleaming instruments added extra glitz to the stage bedecked with sparkling fairy lights and a twinkling tree.
The service, led by Pam, focused on the Nativity and involved many representatives from the local community to assist with readings from the Christmas story. At intervals throughout the narrative, the crib figures were brought to the stable and carefully placed within.
Time and space was given for toys to be donated, destined to bring some much-needed cheer to children spending Christmas in the Blackpool Women’s Refuge. The congregation had been most generous.
More Christmas music was performed by the Over Wyre Community Choir, providing some thoughtful, modern Christmas compositions.
Between the strident tones of the band, the harmonies of the choir, the changing narrative voices and the robust collective community singing, the service moved seamlessly through its paces. Judging by the delighted expressions on the faces of the young and not so young alike, everyone was happy to be part of the event and move collectively a few steps closer to Christmas.
The service ended with Pilling Jubilee Silver Band playing ‘We Wish you a Merry Christmas’ and was followed by an invitation for all to stay for some festive refreshments.
The congregation left on a high note, feeling Christmassy and knowing they had helped spread some kindness to children they will probably never meet, all in the name of a baby, born in a manger.
And that wasn’t the end of it! For the parishioners of St. James’ church, their families and friends, a special lunch beckoned!
Tables had been furnished with sparkly cloths, flickering candles, be-ribboned crackers and lush seasonal foliage; twinkling fairy lights hung in swags around the room, and a Christmas tree was a commanding presence in the corner of the room. The scene was set for some serious feasting!
Hot food, courtesy of Brenda, was served to each table and tucked into enthusiastically. Delectable desserts followed, which all declared, ‘delicious’. Teas and coffees completed the meal and the happy, relaxed chatter continued, before getting down to some not-so-serious quiz questions!
Guests slowly drifted away, having enjoyed a lovely festive celebration, feeling full of the Christmas spirit, home-cooked food and the joy of good company.
Next stop…Nine Lessons and Carols – Sunday 21st December at 10.30am.
