Cleveland & Danby Logo Link

Christmas at Glaisdale

glaisdale 1glaisdale 2glaisdale 3glaisdale 4

Even the absence of our retired-minister-member Rev Caroline Vodden, who was away on her travels, could not be allowed to stand in the way of a special Family-Friendly Christmas Service at Glaisdale Head Methodist Church. Our mult-talented Treasurer, Delia Liddle, stepped undaunted into the role of worship-leader and did such a sterling job that no demurring will ever be allowed again.

While Delia would be the first to give credit to Caroline for providing a framework, she was very definitely skilled in two key areas. Number one, she created a very relaxed and convivial atmosphere, which fostered contributions from both adults and children; and number two, she managed to keep the children busy.

First of all, there was the stable that needed populating with the different knitted figures hidden around the chapel. Then some Christmas cards had to be delivered to the adults, whose job it was to read out short statements about Christmas traditions, linking these back to the story of the Saviour's birth. Some of the children had expressed a desire beforehand to contribute to the music of the service, and of course we were delighted to encourage, so we enjoyed several one-fingered renditions of Jingle Bells on the chapel keyboard, and a really beautifully-sung performance of Silent Night and . 'A Little Bit Naughty' from Matilda!

While some of us may have struggled with finding Biblical links there, it was as always a joy to have the children's energy, enthusiasm and excitement filling the space. They then went off into the schoolroom to enjoy some craft under the able management of Katie Whitehead with a few parent helpers, while we had a somewhat quieter and more orthodox time of prayer and reflection. When the children reappeared for the last carol, they were carefully carrying the most elaborately-decorated biscuits you could possibly imagine. Suddenly, there was loud knocking on the chapel door – and a surprise visit from Santa crowned the occasion.

All the chapel members would like to extend their thanks not only to Delia and Caroline, but also to Katie – and not just for occupying the children for part of the service. As someone who attends chapel frequently with her husband, Will, and their four young children, she also takes responsibility for liaising with the local families and encouraging them along for our special events. Thank you all! We're looking forward to the next Family Service at Easter.

(24 adults and 20 children attended.)

Cleveland & Danby Methodist Circuit

clevelandanddanbycircuit@gmail.com
07483 168607

Hope Church East Cleveland
The Old Co-op Building
High Street
Loftus
TS13 4HW

Registered Charity No. 1130868

© 2025 – Cleveland and Danby Methodist Circuit