On 6th December, almost 100 brethren and guests gathered at The Holy Trinity Free Church of England in Oswaldtwistle for the annual East Ribble District Carol Service.
The service was introduced by WBro Robert Allan PProvGSuptWks who welcomed everyone and encouraged them to sing with great enthusiasm. His words were not ignored, as the singing was of a very high standard in terms of tunefulness and volume! The congregation were assisted by a wonderful choir, organised by Mrs Barbara Gee, and our very own WBro Stephen Watson PProvSGD played the magnificent church organ to his usual impeccable standard.
The nine lessons were read by a wide range of brethren from within the District, including Grand Lodge Officers to newer initiates.
The list of readers:
Lesson 1: WBro Roger Flitcroft PAGDC 6384
Lesson 2: WBro Russel Harwood 283
Lesson 3: WBro David Gill ProvAGDC 8178
Lesson 4: WBro Brian Derbyshire PProvDepGDC 462
Lesson 5: WBro Andrew Taylor ProvDepGDC 8542
Lesson 6: WBro Andrew Hindle ProvGStwd 3479
Lesson 7: Bro Mark Clayton 269
Lesson 8: Bro Adam Burrows 6339
Lesson 9: EComp Paul Aspinall PGStB APGP
Following the final reading of the service, WBro David Lightbown PAGDC the District Chairman gave heartfelt thanks to those responsible for the organisation of the day and wished everyone present all the very best for the festive season, whilst asking that everyone remember people who are less fortunate or will be away from their families at Christmas. WBro Lightbown also commented at the quality of singing and suggested a District Choir be established!
The Reverend Bro Don Johnson closed the service with a very amusing and poignant closing prayer where he explained what may happen if Heaven set up a call centre, something everyone could relate to. His message however was that we are not in a queue to speak to God as he is always ready to listen.
Before retiring, there were mince pies and a hot drink for everyone to enjoy whilst seasonal greetings were exchanged.
The collection, taken by WBro Ian Ogden PProvSGW and WBro Gordon Hunter PProvSGW, who have been performing the task for the past 25 years, raised the wonderful sum of £130 for Church funds.