Christmas services - not sure what’s what?
You don’t have to be a regular churchgoer to enjoy
our Christmas services. You will be very welcome at any of them. Here’s some
information to help you decide which is the right service for you.
Christingle Service
A service for all the family with the candles of the popular Christingle
oranges creating a wonderful atmosphere as we prepare for Christmas. You can
find out more about how the Christingle service helps the Children’s Society’s
work with children who are in trouble or at risk – click
here.
Candlelit Service of Lessons and Carols
Does what it says on the tin - a traditional Christmas carol service held
in candlelight and followed by mulled wine and mince pies.
 Crib Service
The re-telling of the Christmas story, for young and old alike, with
carols. So popular that this year we are having two identical services at
St Mary’s, at 4.00 pm and 6.00 pm on Christmas Eve –
admission by free ticket only.
Children may, if they wish, bring a small present for children who have
little at Christmas. The Candlelit Nativity Service at St Nicolas’ at 6.00 pm
is very similar, but no tickets are required.
Christmas Midnight Mass
A traditional candlelit service with carols and communion (see Said
Communion Service for explanation of communion).
Celebrate!
This is a lively and informal service
for all ages, but particularly good for families. Plenty of songs, and a range
of other activities – maybe games or videos - but with some calmer moments
too. Be confident to bring babies and toddlers - and don't worry about sitting
and staying in one place - feel free to move around the church. Every Sunday
at St Mary’s, this service lasts no more than 45 minutes. On Christmas
morning, children might like to bring one of their presents to show to
everyone!
Said Communion Service
This short service (no more than 45 minutes) has at its heart the Holy
Communion (also referred to as the Eucharist, the Lord's Supper or the Mass).
We are reminded of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ through
the blessing and sharing of bread and wine. Most people at the service will
come to the altar to receive bread and wine, but some like to come up to
receive a blessing from the priest instead, while others prefer to remain in
their seats. This service contains no music.
Sung Communion Service
Like the said communion service, this
has the sharing of bread and wine at its heart. However, this service also
includes hymns with choir and organ. It typically lasts just over an hour.
“The Real Christmas”
Not so much a service, more a reminder of what the Christmas story is
really about. An afternoon of seasonal music, activities and refreshments in
St Mary’s.
Still want to find out more?
There’s lots of information about what it means to be a Christian
here.
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