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CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 2009
 "''Sparkle"'' Reflections What was it for you, that made this years Christmas Tree Festival so special? Because in some indefinable way there was a very special atmosphere in the Church. Was it the warmth - the welcome - the children's thought-provoking prayers - the brilliantly lit 'Big Tree' that drew eyes straight to the altar - or the fact that there were so many beautifully and artistically decorated trees that there were no dark corners? I spent a lot of time in the Church over the festival and what struck me was the fact that people didn't rush away. They took their time to look round, sat quietly absorbing the atmosphere, and stayed to chat over drinks and mincepies. It seemed that I wasn't the only one finding it hard to drag myself away. Helpers found that it didn't matter whether they were kept busy or not - they were just happy to be there. So what was it that made it special for others? Here are some of the comments we heard: Seeing the big tree come to life with the new LED lights. Conversations where tears turned to smiles of relief. The wonderful "Concert and Carols" energised by the school children. Previous memories of churches being dark places being erased
by the warmth and light (a real example of "Seeing the Church in a
different light") Being part of the team - seeing how much goes on behind the scenes. The Church being open - Warm and welcoming - looking so beautiful. The warmth, friendliness and generosity was tangible. The Remembrance and Prayer Trees. To be there was delightful and something to treasure. Everyone was really welcoming. All the hard work paid off! I think that that indefinable something was the way God moved in that place - the hearts He touched, the fears He calmed, the comfort He brought to the sick and bereaved - above all the peace that touched us all and that will remain with us. A memory that we will draw on in the weeks and months to come - a 'place' to go back to when times get hard. As Elaine said "This [festival] has done more than you will ever know!" A huge thank you to everyone The Sponsors for their generosity and ingenuity. The organisers, helpers (including my hard-working - or should that be "long-suffering"? - husband) and those who offered pastoral support. The children and staff of St Matthew's School - for their prayer trees, for the wonderful singing of their choir, the enthusiasm of the teachers involved, and their wish to repeat the performance again next year (I think we can all second that!). The choir for participating so enthusiastically and to all the men who worked so hard to put up the big tree. A special thank you to Neville Snodgrass who helped to co-ordinate the event and who really seemed to enjoy himself in the process! Prize Winners Sponsors: - 1st The Beehive Stores 2nd Green Home & Gardens 3rd Aspect Hair Design. Hollies Hamper Voters' Prize Draw: Eric ... Extra prize because votes were cast for non-sponsored
Trees: Pat Terry Pastoral Worker December 2009 |
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