Saturday 5 th December woke with a bright sunny start, and stayed that way as we set the lovely Christmas tree in its stand and secured it to the wall. It soon became apparent that there were not enough lights to make the tree look sparkling, so thanks to Terri and Jo who dashed out in search of some more the tree soon stood resplendent in its twinkling lights.
Next with dark clouds gathering we erected a couple of gazebos in case of rain!!!! With all things ready we left, to return at 3p.m. to set up refreshments. We prayed that we would know by 3p.m. if we were to put the refreshments outside or in. Yes you guessed it by 3p.m. it was raining, so we set up inside, praying hard that it would stop raining for the carols round the tree.
At 3.50p.m. we set off to All Saints church in the now pouring rain to meet with our fellow Christians and celebrate with a Christingle service. It was very interesting to learn how the Christingle candle came into being. Then all the children went to exchange their money pots for a Christingle candle and lined the aisle to have them lit and then sing Away in a Manger.
At the end of the service we all gathered to walk down Church Street with our torches and singing O Come All Ye Faithful. Praise the Lord half way down the road it stopped raining. Yes God does answer prayer.
We gathered round the tree and sang more carols and listened as we learned how and why Jesus came into the world. Our friend Jenny played the accordion for us which sounded fantastic. Thank you Jenny.
Then we all went inside for refreshments of hot soup, tea, coffee, mince pies, and fellowship – and the heavens opened. From the warm and dry we realised why we had been led to set up the refreshments inside!!
Anne Snozwell
