With the restrictions and worries of the lockdown years (hopefully) far behind us, it has been fantastic to get back together as a community to come together, sing carols and worship God in the only church the valley that can hold us…the Mart in Rothbury!
Started over 20 years ago as part of the response to the devastating effects of Foot and Mouth on the farming community, it was brilliant to see the congregation back to well over 300 people.
As in previous years, members of all of the Upper Coquetdale Churches Together churches join together with a scratch band and the people from far and wide for an hour of carols and readings, closed off with mince pies and mulled (not mauled) wine.
A new tradition?
The Sunday before Christmas Eve has traditionally been a Nativity Service at Armstrong Hall, but this year (probably when there wasn’t an amber weather warning, and it seemed like a simple idea) we decided to take the service on the road – touring the Nativity around Thropton.
The weather cleared just in time for the musicians to lead the first carol, and stayed dry as the story of the first Christmas was retold at various stations around the village including the school, village hall and the all important bus stop, before we all headed back to Armstrong Hall to warm up and enjoy tea, coffee and a variety of freshly baked shortbread and mince pies.
A big thank you to everyone who helped arrange either event, and we hope to see you next year (or at our Christmas Morning service tomorrow!)
