On Sunday December 4th, around 80 Brethren and their families assembled on a cold crisp afternoon at the Holy Trinity Free Church of England in Oswaldtwistle for the annual East Ribble District Carol Service with Nine Lessons. WBro Brian Derbyshire PProvDepGDC welcomed the congregation and thanked everyone for their attendance. The carols were sung with great enthusiasm and the lessons punctuating them were expertly delivered by members of the three Fellowships across the District.
Following the final carol, WBro David Lightbown PAGDC, the District Chairman, gave his own vote of thanks to everyone for their attendance. He made reference to the quality of the singing, which he thought was improving year on year! He also thanked VWBro Derek Nelson Thornhill PGSwdB, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, and WBro John Farrington PSGD, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, for their attendance along with their wives. WBro Lightbown went on to thank the choir, the readers, WBro Stephen Watson for acting as organist, the church along with the Wardens and Ladies for hosting the event once again and everyone who had made such a wonderful occasion happen.
The Rev. Don Johnson concluded the afternoon with prayers and an amusing tale of how Christmas can remind us of ancient traditions.
A collection taken during the final carol raised a total of £144 which was donated to the Church funds.
Before departing, the congregation were invited to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a traditional mince pie. A wonderful afternoon which placed everyone fully in the Christmas spirit.
Readers:
Lesson 1 – WBro Harry Hesmondhalgh
Lesson 2- Mrs. Doris Lamb
Lesson 3 – WBro Ian Ogden
Lesson 4 – WBro Stephen Jackson
Lesson 5 – WBro Bill Fishwick
Lesson 6 – WBro Barry Whitehead
Lesson 7 – Mrs Helen Maden
Lesson 8 – WBro Bryan Bristol
Lesson 9 – WBro John R Farrington APGM
Organist WBro Stephen Watson