Aldersgate Ward Club

Christmas Carol Service. Monday 16th December 2024

 

Some twenty or so members joined the Master for the Carols by Candlelight Service in St. Giles’ Cripplegate. The event was shared with Cripplegate Ward Club, for whom this is their Ward Church, together with members of the church and local community.  The spectacular mediaeval church was decorated with lighted candelabra on the window sills and a sparkling Christmas tree by the altar.

 

We all enjoyed the traditional service, which began in candlelight with a soloist singing the first verse of Once in Royal David’s City while the choir and clergy processed up the aisle. The bible readings recounting the advent and birth of Jesus were read by the Master of Cripplegate Ward Club and other office bearers and representatives of the Ward. The choir sang a variety of Christmas music both traditional and less well known, all performed beautifully.  We, the congregation, had our turn, too, joining enthusiastically in the singing of popular carols. 

 

Afterwards, everyone was invited to share mulled wine and mince pies whilst meeting the clergy and greeting our friends.

 

We then moved on to the nearby Côte Brasserie where a convivial meal of Christmas fare was enjoyed by all. At the end, we left full of seasonal good cheer as we wished each other “Merry Christmas!”.