Gracehill, Northern Ireland - March 2026
Gracehill’s festive season was ushered in by the Moravian Women Association’s (MWA) popular Coffee Morning at the end of November. The church was filled with warmth and welcome as harp and piano music set a gentle seasonal mood, while members of the congregation and the wider community gathered to enjoy an imaginative array of homemade festive delights. An outstanding amount was raised for MWA charitable projects, surpassing last year and reflecting the generosity of our church members and community.
In addition to the coffee morning, the MWA were pleased once again to coordinate the annual Christmas Appeal in support of Women’s Aid. The congregation responded with remarkable kindness, resulting in an impressive collection of thoughtfully chosen gifts which reflect the compassion and care that continue to be a hallmark of Gracehill’s wider ministry.
That same spirit of giving and togetherness was evident in the beautiful Carols by Candlelight service in early December. Candlelight, music, scripture, and thoughtful reflection combined to create a deeply moving evening, rounded off by a relaxed and enjoyable supper. The atmosphere was one of shared joy and quiet wonder as voices joined together in song.
On the Third Sunday of Advent, the children of Gracehill took centre stage with a vibrant and engaging retelling of the Christmas story. Their colourful costumes, confidence, and expressive storytelling brought fresh energy to the familiar narrative of Christ’s birth. The presentation reflected both the children’s enthusiasm and the dedication of the Children’s Church leaders who guided them with such care and commitment.
Alongside the children’s celebrations, our Youth Fellowship also enjoyed a memorable festive gathering of their own. Since September, the group has been thriving under a new and enthusiastic leadership team, and their Christmas party reflected this renewed energy. A lively programme of games and prizes ensured plenty of laughter, and the arrival of a well-known fast-food favourite was warmly welcomed. The undisputed highlight of the evening, however, was a wonderfully chaotic Snowman dressing-up competition, which provided endless amusement and firmly sealed the night as a great success.
Christmas Eve saw the return of one of the most cherished services of the year: the Christingle celebration. Friends and families filled the church, the atmosphere bright with cheer and festive anticipation, and beautifully illuminated by the soft glow of dozens of Christingle candles. Worship was led once again by the ever-faithful Ballyduff Silver Band, whose music added depth and celebration to the occasion, alongside other instrumental and song contributions from members of the congregation.
The celebrations continued on Christmas morning with a family service of thanksgiving and gratitude, as worshippers of all ages gathered to rejoice in the gift of Christ’s birth. There was particular delight as the children were invited to share their excitement, enthusiastically showing off their Christmas presents. The combination of music, laughter and fellowship created a truly memorable start to the day and a wonderful sense of shared joy and fellowship.
This season in Gracehill was made especially meaningful as we celebrated our first Christmas with Rev David Howarth as minister of the congregation. His presence throughout all the services and festive events was warmly welcomed, and it was a joy to experience the season together under his guidance. As he reflected on the celebrations, Br David said, ‘I felt deeply blessed. In the singing of traditional carols, in shared prayer, and in engagement with people both young and old, Christmas 2025 in Gracehill was, for me, full of joy, wonder and blessing’. His words capture the warmth, fellowship and uplifting spirit that marked the season for all of us.
Sr Ruth Johnston
