27 December 2018
14:14 | 
Posted by
LesleyB |
A busy few days as we celebrate the nativity of Christ here in St Mary's. We started on Sunday 23rd with a quiet and contemplative Parish Eucharist in the morning, the last Sunday of Advent and a real feeling of anticipation of the days to come. This was followed by coffee in the rooms.
We reconvened at 6 pm for the Service of 9 lessons and Carols. Following the traditional service as originally described by the Bishop of Truro, and thinking particularly of those who worship but on another shore, a sentence added after the First World War, we listened to the readings from the Old and the New Testament recalling how Christ's coming was foretold, and described in the Gospels and finally given Universal context by the words of St John. Interspersed were Congregational and Choir carols. The Choir sang, Benedicamus Domino set by Peter Warlock, Small Wonder by Paul Edwards,
In Dulce Jubilo words attributed to Suso and setting by Pearsell, Torches by John Joubert, Lulli Lulla Thou Little Tiny Child arranged by Kenneth Leighton, Sarah Amos sang the solo. and lastly The Echo Carol by Alfred Whitehead. Lucy and Emile sang the first verse of Once in Royal Davids City as a solo. The whole congregation sang Hark the Herald Angels Sing to close the service.
We reconvened at 6 pm for the Service of 9 lessons and Carols. Following the traditional service as originally described by the Bishop of Truro, and thinking particularly of those who worship but on another shore, a sentence added after the First World War, we listened to the readings from the Old and the New Testament recalling how Christ's coming was foretold, and described in the Gospels and finally given Universal context by the words of St John. Interspersed were Congregational and Choir carols. The Choir sang, Benedicamus Domino set by Peter Warlock, Small Wonder by Paul Edwards,
In Dulce Jubilo words attributed to Suso and setting by Pearsell, Torches by John Joubert, Lulli Lulla Thou Little Tiny Child arranged by Kenneth Leighton, Sarah Amos sang the solo. and lastly The Echo Carol by Alfred Whitehead. Lucy and Emile sang the first verse of Once in Royal Davids City as a solo. The whole congregation sang Hark the Herald Angels Sing to close the service.
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| A full Church for the 9 Lessons and Carol Service |
On Christmas eve we had a traditional First Eucharist of Christmas, held at 11 pm. The first service of the Christmas period was a joyous occasion, with the singing of the Gloria again after the austere services of Advent. Father Roger preached at this service and spoke of the true meaning of Christmas, Christs- Mass, and how it brings a message that is for all times and all places.
We left the church on a clear starlight night, wishing each other happy Christmas and filled with joy.
On Christmas morning at 10 am the Sunday School held a service of prayers, carols and tableaux vivant telling the Christmas Story and a bringing presents to share with others. At 11:15 a said service of the Eucharist and carols was held, and enjoyed by all.
On the 26th of December, St Stephens Day, Father Stephen held a Eucharist for the Holy Innocents.
