Christingle

Last night was another markerstone in the run up to Christmas, Our Christingle Services.  It is such a beautiful event. 
Every year we hold two services consecutivly for the infants and the juniors from our local school.  Both services are very well attanded by children, parents and Grandparents and lots of members of the congregation who help out with the process ensuring safety and enjoyment for everyone.
It's always the privaledge of the year 2 children to make the Christingles.
The Christingle is a visual prop for the message of Jesus. 
The orange is the world.
The red ribbon is the love that jesus showed us by his death.
The fruits and nuts are the four directions, North South East and West, the seasons and his provisions for us.
The candle signifies the light of Christ coming into the world.

Once the christingles are handed out, the children wait for someone to light their candle and then the light are turned out and you see the wonder and excitement in the childrens eyes as the candle song is sung.  It really is difficult to sing at that poing, I always feel a lump in my throat and tears brimming in my eyes.  It's a really magical moment.
After the song, there is a natural silence.  The children are just awestruck and everyone enjoys the candle light.

Last night was even more magical than usual because of the snow that fell all day leaving huge drifts and a winterland atmosphere for the walk home afterwards.  And then last night, not only did we have the snow, but several of the villagers had put up their christmas lights to twinkle us on our way.