It was lovely to welcome adults and children to our Christingle service held on Sunday, 10 December in church. Thanks to the "back room" efforts of quite a number of people, bags containing the items needed to make a Christingle were handed out as people arrive.During the service, led by Canon Jan Payne (Licensed Lay Minister, 5folds), the meaning behind each symbol was explained and Christingles were assembled. Towards the end of the service, a large circle formed round the inside of the church, the candles in the Christingles were lit, the church lights were turned off and and we sang two songs. It is always a special moment in this service.Afterwards, Christingles already constructed were placed carefully back into the bags to travel home and some spares were taken for other members of the family, friends, neighbours and so on. A collection was taken for the work of the Children's Society and the church.Our thanks to everyone who came to support this service.
Despite some unhelpful weather conditions, the pre-Christmas sale of cakes, pastries and preserves was another hit with a steady stream of customers supporting the fund raising effort towards refurbishing the kitchen in the Octagon Hall. We thank everyone who came along.A separate fund-raising effort for Ukraine was also successful, raising just over £100 for relief aid.
Over 300 people, of all ages, attended services at the War Memorial and in church to mark Remembrance Sunday on 12 November 2023. At the War Memorial the Roll of Honour was read by Mrs Sue Hayden and wreaths were laid on behalf of the Royal British Legion, the Parish Council, the churches and schools and the uniformed organisations. Particularly striking were poppies made specially by the Beavers of the 1st Willingham Scout troop. After the solemn ceremonies outside, the church service had a slightly lighter feel to it, including some videos to watch as well as readings and prayers. The congregation made a commitment to peace, each person having a small T-light to hold at the time. The Scouts and Brownies also brought their flags to the service. Children from Willingham Primary School (under the direction of Mrs Sutton) sang "We will remember" and Willingham poet, Christine Lacey, read her "November Poem". Canon Jan Payne officiated at both services, describing it as an honour and privilege to do so.
