St Columba’s Church was again transformed for the Victorian Christmas Market weekend.

In conjunction with the town’s celebrations, market stalls, rides and displays in Northumberland Square, the church put on a floral display on a musical theme.  The church was open to visitors on Saturday and Sunday 11-12 December with flowers illustrating various Christmas carols.  Displays included Away in a Manger, Like a Candle Flame, and I Saw Three Ships.

Visitors were also invited to write prayer requests on stars and place them in a basket.  Prayers were later given to God, and the stars hung on the Christmas tree.

Hot and cold refreshments and stalls were provided in the church hall, as the last of this winter’s early snow melted outside.

Sunday morning worship also picked up the theme, with the congregation joining in singing six Christmas carols, and witnessing a dramatic presentation based on Charles Dickens’ classic Victorian tale, A Christmas Carol.  In three short acts, our Minister, Revd Liz Blair, was visited by Dorothy, Claire and Jenifer and reflected on stories from St Columba’s past and present and explored a vision for the future.