Christmas Stories Part 1
We’ve loved seeing and hearing about all the Christmas events and services taking place in churches across the diocese this month, as we invite people to ‘Come home this Christmas’. Read on to hear a selection of what has been taking place across the diocese, and come back next week for even more stories!
St Wilfrid’s, Wilford
St Wilfrid’s welcomed an exceptional number of families and visitors to their Christingle service last Sunday: a lively, interactive celebration complete with Christingle-making and even someone dressed as an orange! The most moving moment came as the lights were dimmed and the candles glowed across the church. Immediately afterwards, curate Jacob, proclaimed with bold clarity that the Christingle’s message is true: Jesus is the light of the world. It was a powerful reminder to newcomers and regulars alike that Christmas is more than a joyful tradition, it is the celebration of the true King.
St Paul’s Boundary Road
St Paul’s hosted a ‘Christmas Pudding Club’, welcoming around 25 people from the church and wider community for an evening of festive creativity and companionship. The atmosphere was warm and joyful, with live music, mulled wine, and canapés setting the tone. Each guest arrived with their mixing bowl and pudding basin, and thanks to the care of dedicated volunteers was given a recipe and pre-measured ingredients so they could simply relax and enjoy stirring up their Christmas puddings.
While the fruit was soaking, the group paused for a moment of stillness as Wendy, the Community Connector, shared a gentle reflection on belonging and peace at Christmas. At the end of the evening, everyone headed home with their puddings and clear instructions for cooking and storing them, ready for the big day ahead.
St Mary’s in the Lace Market, Nottingham
This week St Mary’s had the privilege of hosting our region’s Together at Christmas service, following the national gathering led by the Prince and Princess of Wales at Westminster Abbey on 5th December. In partnership with Professor Veronica Pickering, the Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, the church welcomed more than 300 specially invited guests from across the City and County. People whose lives shine with acts of service, kindness, and community leadership.The service celebrated love in all its forms, honouring volunteers, community organisers, and those who simply offer a steady, helping hand to others. Together, the congregation rejoiced in the love of Jesus Christ, made visible in all who bring light into places of darkness.
St Mary’s Attenborough
St Mary’s Attenborough was alive with Christmas cheer on Sunday evening as a live band brought fresh jazz energy to much-loved carols, filling the church with joyful singing. A local microbrewery provided festive ales, complemented by mulled wine, mince pies, and hot chocolate, all adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
In the midst of the celebration, Toby, the vicar, shared a heartfelt message: that the Christmas story declares we are known and loved. He reminded everyone that Jesus’ birth, His life given for us, and His rising again are God’s promise that He longs to meet us personally — stepping into our mess to redeem it and sending His life-giving Spirit to transform us into His glorious light.
St Mary the Virgin and All Souls, Bulwell
This week, St Mary the Virgin & All Souls welcomed the community for bacon cobs, coffee, and a chance for families to meet Father Christmas and browse for a bargain. Amid the festive bustle, Father Andrew and Revd Bob spent time sharing the good news of Christ, offering free Christian literature, and inviting visitors into the ‘Jesus Deck’ tent. Through gentle, prayerful reflection using the cards, people were encouraged to consider how the story of Jesus might speak into their own lives this Christmas.
Are you hosting any special events or services this Advent and Christmas? We’d love to hear and share about them! Use the link below to get in touch with the Comms Team.