Churches and schools get creative this Advent

In the lead-up to Christmas, it has been wonderful to see the many ways in which our churches, chaplaincies and schools are sharing the joy of Advent with their communities. Here are just a few examples of all that has been happening across our diocese:

• St Clement’s, Higher Openshaw has been running an open-mic night at their local pub and this week held a Christmas special. Lots of people signed up to sing festive songs and carols.
• Volunteers at Benefice of St Mark’s, Heyside and St Anne’s, Royton have painted rocks with an image of baby Jesus and asked children to make a home for Him. Their many creative responses have been shared on social media.
• Children and staff from St Anne’s Primary School enjoyed a beautiful Christingle service in St Anne’s church, Rossendale.
• St Thomas’s, Kirkholt has shared a great idea with parents wondering what their ‘elf on a shelf’ will get up to next! 
• St Andrew’s and St Bede’s, Over Hulton have collected 5390 crackers for ‘Christmas Dinner on Jesus’ which have been delivered to Urban Outreach Bolton. A simply incredible amount!
• Leesfield Parish has collected many generous donations in their Toy Service. 
• St Werburgh’s, Chorlton are holding Christmas crafts and play sessions.

Please be sure to share your activities online and tag us on our socials – we will be sharing your creative ideas throughout Advent.