“Let there be light: and there was light”…in abundance!
From the long procession of glowing lanterns wending their way from Stalmine Village Hall to St. James’ church, to the dazzling smiles of people of all ages, eagerly anticipating the annual lighting of the Christmas tree, there was every sign that a glittering evening was unfolding!
Throughout the drizzly December daylight hours, there had been much speculation about the feasibility of an outside evening event. Miraculously, as darkness descended, the rain retreated, enabling the lantern procession and the ‘Switch-On’ to go ahead as planned.
The gleaming instruments of Wyre Brass Band provided jubilant notes to familiar carols and Sara led the family-friendly service before handing over to Lois to turn the darkness surrounding the towering evergreen into sparkling light.
Inside the church, seasonal music welcomed the crowds and the aroma of mulled wine drifted through the air as they tucked into bacon barm cakes and sausage sandwiches. Christmas crafting for the young ones provided more glamour and glitz as biscuits and tree decorations were decorated. Animated chit chat, laughter and happy voices resonated throughout.
There was, of course, a most special visitor! Santa, with help from his very tall elf, welcomed all the little ones in his shimmering grotto and listened attentively as they shared their hopes and dreams for Christmas.
Without doubt, it was a brilliant night, for the whole village community.
Special thanks to all who made the event a night to remember.
“Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw that the light was good.”
(Genesis 1: 3 – 4)