'At Yare Valley Churches as we journey through Advent, we share a season of waiting and longing for Christmas', writes Gaye Hailstone.
'Members of our church, together with Dave our rector, supported the Anna Chaplaincy team by joining us as we went into each of the residential care homes with carols and the nativity story. What a joy it was to see them all smiling as they heard the familiar Christmas story and loudly sang all the traditional carols they remembered so well. At these services, we used the final verse of Away in a Manger as our closing prayer, such a lovely way to end the worship.
I also took the nativity story and carols into the private homes of those I visit regularly with Holy Communion and it was wonderful to be able to use the CD of carols “Joy to the World” by the Orkney Joyful Noise Choir rather than attempt a “duet”, usually in the wrong key. It was magical, like singing within a church and being part of the congregation.
One lady in the church hand made Christmas cards, one for each of the residents in our care homes and we took boxes of chocolates for all the staff
We also had a special carol service in church for all who regularly attend our Forget Me Not Café, and a Christmas party with crackers, too much food, and silly party games which was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone!'
Christmas blessings to you all.
Gaye
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