Church of England Churches across Herefordshire are inviting everyone to discover the true meaning of Christmas through a wide range of services and events taking place across the county this festive season.
From traditional candlelit services to creative reimagining of the nativity story, churches throughout Herefordshire are opening their doors to all to find peace, wonder and celebration during the Christmas period.
There are all the usual classic favourites, including Nine Lessons and Carols, Carol services from Hereford Cathedral right through to those in the many churches dotted across the towns and villages of Herefordshire, offering everything from a Midnight Mass celebration to the first Communion of Christmas Day. The family-friendly nativity service is always a highlight of the festive calendar, providing opportunities for children and adults alike to encounter the Christmas story in accessible and engaging ways – dressed up or as you are. All are invited to gather together in the timeless Christian traditions that have marked Christmas celebrations for generations.
Churches are also embracing creative and unexpected ways to share the Christmas message. St Paul’s Church in Hereford have teamed up with one local pub, The Bunch of Carrots in Hampton Bishop, for a fun evening sing-along from 7:30pm on Monday 8 December, listed as a “Bunch of Carols” - no singing qualification required just come along and join the fun. On Hereford's bustling High Street, a nativity crib has been placed in the old flower hut between Boot’s the Chemist and All Saints Church, hidden behind the iron bars, almost out of sight. You could walk by without realising it was there. Just as Jesus was born in a humble manger surrounded by animals, this unassuming display sits quietly amidst the crowds of Christmas shoppers, inviting passers-by to pause and reflect on the simple yet profound story at the heart of Christmas.
For those seeking a more contemporary festive experience, St Mary's in Ross-on-Wye is hosting a free screening of the beloved Christmas film “Home Alone” in the afternoon of Monday 22 December, followed by Carols under the Spire at 5:30pm –blending entertainment and traditional celebration that appeals across the generations.
In the quiet market town of Kington, Rev’d Sally Welch, vicar of St Mary's Church, explains how the local crib festival, features nativity scenes which have been created by individuals, schools and businesses from across the area. The festival, which begins on Sunday 7 December and runs throughout December, has brought the community together through crib-building workshops which were held in November for families and Year 2 pupils at Kington Primary School. Contributions from Lady Hawkins School, Little Orchard Nursery and many local groups will be on display.
The festival will be enriched by a unique musical event on Sunday 14 December at 3.00pm, when the Kington Handbell Ringers present 'The Donkey's Story' – a narrated tale interspersed with carols performed on handbells.
Bridstow, St Bridget’s church, led by Rev’d Laura Hewitt, will host their first Christingle service. This is a popular and much loved Christmas service offered by many churches across the UK. It features oranges wrapped with a red ribbon, sweets and raisins on cocktail sticks and a candle, representing the light of the world, Christ. The format may give the odd churchwarden a fire hazard headache but it’s a firm favourite across the generations. The church is bathed with candlelight and the sound of carol singing bounces off the ancient stone walls.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, Rev’d Wayne Davies vicar at Holmer Church, is fulfilling his ambition to see angel’s fly and will be using the local zip wire at The Point in Hereford to add some fun to this year’s nativity service. Check it out on Sunday afternoon,14 December - Carols and hot chocolate are also on offer.
"It is wonderful to hear the many creative ways churches are inviting people to consider Jesus this Christmas. I am grateful to all our vicars, choirs, organists and the many volunteers who work hard to prepare and welcome the community to join in. These are always occasions filled with joy, music and the warmth of community," said Rt Rev’d Richard Jackson, Bishop of Hereford. "Whether people are drawn to the solemnity of Midnight Mass, the delight of a children's nativity, or discovering an unexpected crib scene, there really is something for everyone to experience. At the heart of it all is the hope and wonder that is brought to us through the birth of Christ."
Churches across the diocese encourage everyone – regular worshippers and those who rarely enter a church building – to explore the range of services and events on offer this Christmas season. To find out what’s on visit: www.AChurchNearYou.com