Christmas Tree Festival 2006

St James, West End

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updated on:

 

09 September 2010

“Magical—something special happened here this weekend”

 

“A wonderful occasion”          “I really felt part of West End”

 

“Truly beautiful and the pillar dressings are wonderful”

 December 2006

Visitors found their way along   candle-lit paths to the church, which had been specially floodlit for the occasion.  They were greeted by some of the many volunteers on hand to welcome people to St James’.  After admiring the beauty within the church there was the lure of mince pies and mulled wine in the hall and the chance to buy items from a variety of stalls. 

 

Many visitors took the opportunity to write down their prayers and place them on the Prayer Tree, and the Lady Chapel, having a single tree simply decorated with images of Mary, was used by those wishing to pray quietly. 

 

One of the original aims of the festival was to make St James’ better known and with over 1000 visitors coming from across the Diocese as well as from our local area this was definitely accomplished.  Many organisations from the village were involved, from YoutHouse to the Blue Cross, local schools to the church choir; the community spirit of West End shone as brightly as the trees themselves. Another aim was to raise money for our church, a need highlighted by the recent Count Me In stewardship appeal.  In excess of £1200 was achieved; a fantastic result.

 

As well as the trees, musical talent was much in evidence over the three days, with four events providing a variety of entertainment.  Saint James School gave the  first concert with an assortment of seasonal pieces including solo and group performances and singing from the choir.  On Saturday afternoon an organ recital  by our own organist and Director of Music, Martin Hall, was enjoyed by many.  On Saturday evening it was the turn of St James’ Brass Band and the festival closed on Sunday evening with a concert by the choirs and dancers of Wildern School, a fabulous end to a fantastic and unforgettable weekend.

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These are just a few of the hundreds of positive comments about the first Christmas Tree Festival to be held at our church.  After months of planning and hours (well, days!) of preparation, the church was transformed.  A spectacular display of beautiful trees, all decorated in the theme of Christmas Carols, twinkled in the aisles.  Stunning arrangements of greenery adorned the pillars, pews and pulpit, with a sumptuous swag swathed along the chancel steps.  The sight was breath-taking.