Our Nativity scene was window 24 on the village trail and more socially distanced carol singing raised over £125 for Alzheimers charity. A good number of visitors came to listen and join in with the groups of choir singing from the church grounds on what proved to be a chilled but dry evening unlike the rain yesterday!
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We gathered to sing some socially distanced carols on the grass in front of the church, beside the nativity scene. Two different groups of singers were distanced from each other for this and the singing was accompanied by Jill, our choir conductor. Quite a number of different people came to join in with the choir from the pavement. £47 was raised for Alzheimer’s society; mental health being at the forefront of people’s minds this year. Many children under ten who have been involved in our Messy Church events have recently received a copy of a small Christmas booklet which contains stories and colouring. The booklet has been adapted from "The Rhyming Bible" and issued through the bible society. The chapel hopes that the children enjoy following the journey of the nativity in glorious rhyme leading to God's Christmas present being born in Bethlehem.  A number of us have worked hard today to create the stand and then arrange the scene itself. Still got to be illuminated so it can be seen at night but its up and ready for viewing.  Despite the Covid restrictions we are delighted to announce that 22 boxes and £75 has been donated to the Shoe Box appeal this year and were delievered today before the new restrictions take force.
Thank you to all who have taken the trouble to complete a donation showing that these things can still be achieved no matter what. Once again a busy evening of carols, choir and readings all by traditional candle light. Derek led the service which included a tableau by the young people of the church based on the nativity scene, whilst the choir sang John Rutter's "Star Carol" and "Mary's Boy Child" which included a solo. Afterwards there were refreshments including two lovely gingerbread creations hand made by Gill Walley. Almost a shame to start them but lovely once we did. A dry evening whilst cold but a happy band of about 18 adults and 4 children entertained households around the village. The merry band finished in the Railway pub and sang some more in the warm. With the previous singing in the Church End Brewery the Dog Inn the grand total for all is £510. This will be split between Methodist Homes for the Aged and Ronald Mc Donald charities. Lovely evening being treated to a traditional Romanian Christmas meal by the group who use our church on a Friday evening to celebrate in their own language Romanian style. Our main course of food was sarmale (a cabbage wrapped meal ball) with a mămăliga (polenta) and goat cheese side. This was topped with cişcă (a hot pepper) which many found rather hot indeed! Second course was cotonac (a fruity nut and turkish delight bread) and turtă dulce (ginger bread biscuits) all washed down with fruit and tea to finish. We all experienced a lovely sociable evening talking and finding out about each others traditions and life experiences. We thank our hosts for a really memorable evening. |
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