HOLY Trinity Church in Stratford is having a walk-through carol service this year.
Rather than having a congregation seated in the pews, this year they are organising a “walk-through” carol service.
The church will be open on Christmas Eve, and anyone who comes is invited to wander through the church, where there will be displays that tell the story of the birth of Jesus, brought to life by full size cut-out figures.
The choir will be singing carols, and special lighting and floral decorations will bring the joy and wonder of Christmas Eve alive to visitors of every age.
Rev Patrick Taylor said: “The walk-through approach started as a practical solution to the problem of doing a carol service during the pandemic, when we had to observe strict social distancing. But we got such a positive response from everyone that we have decided to continue doing the service on Christmas Eve in this way.
“It’s so wonderful to see the looks on the faces of children and adults as they enter the candle-lit church and begin their own journey through the story of the birth of Jesus, ending at the crib. I think part of the popularity is that you can arrive whenever you like and take your own time going through the church at whatever pace suits you.
“Holy Trinity is a wonderful building at any time of year, but with the special lighting and decorations, plus the music from the organ and choir, this is perhaps the most truly Christmassy thing I can imagine for Christmas Eve. We will still be holding a traditional sit-down service of lessons and carols on Friday 23rd starting at 7pm, but for those who might prefer something a little different at this most special time, especially families with young children, I hope the walk-through will be just right for them on Christmas Eve.”
Holy Trinity will be open for the walk-through carol service between 3.30pm and 6pm on Christmas Eve (December 24).
