O Come all ye faithful…
A church bathed in warm candlelight, a faithful choir and resounding organ music greeted the congregation attending the first Holy Communion service of Christmas. It was a welcome oasis of calm at the end of what had been a busy church day at St. James’. The family-centred Crib Service and the First Communion of Christmas both took place within hours of each other.
Reverend Naomi Barraclough lit the fifth candle of the lush Advent wreath, symbolising the arrival of Christ’s light into the world and then led the congregation through the service in prayer and reflection.
God of God, Light of Light…
Familiar carols and elegant music created a Christmassy atmosphere, and gave everyone an opportunity to both join in enthusiastically as well as listen appreciatively, whilst holding individual beacons of light, adding to the soothing ambience.
Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation…
Discussion about favourite Christmas films led to conclusions about common denominators in them all – relationships and transformational moments, much like what lies at the heart pf the Christmas narrative.
At the end of the service, warm, animated greetings of ‘Happy Christmas’ could be heard around the church, and wishes were exchanged for a joyful celebration of the feast ahead.
Yea, Lord we greet Thee,
Born this happy morning…
O come, let us adore Him
Christ the Lord!
