Our Carols by Candlelight service ushered in the festive with a joyous Christmas service attended by over 100 guests. Those attending included a number of very elderly residents from St Catherine’s Residential Care Home, members of our assisted independent living projects based in Newcastle, and staff members of St Cuthbert’s Care.
The celebration was led by Fr Michael Whalen from Holy Name Church, Jesmond, and beautifully supported by girls from the Sacred Heart Catholic High School’s choir, who sang traditional carols, and gave the Christmas Gospel readings.
A special performance of Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer was given by Live and Learn, a special needs group from the Alan Shearer Activity Centre, who used a combination of singing and sign language to lead the congregation.
Finishing the service with a rousing chorus of the Twelve Days of Christmas, guests stayed to enjoy hot soup, mince pies, and refreshments.