Categories: uncategorized
Date: 26 December 2007 22:23:50
After the rowdy singing of carols at the local Hospital (albeit with magnificent descants and a lovely treble solo), and stuffing our faces at the same, some of us were in good enough voice to sing in Christmas Day at Midnight Mass. The church was full but with only a few extra chairs needed, so the health and safety officer didn't need to worry too much. It was a treat to sing the Gloria again (to the Thorne setting) after the Advent fast. We repeated the Sweeney 'Silent Night' during the administration, followed by 'Away in a Manger' (arr. Willcocks - the twiddly harmony that is very simple but impresses everyone). The sopranos were again in good voice and filled the church with confident descants to all the carols.
Fewer of us got up early on Christmas morning for the 9.30am service, although a choir of 16 wasn't bad given the number who had to be away visiting relatives. Although we didn't sound quite like 'The (famous) Sixteen' we gave it our best effort, with a jaunty rendition of 'Angels from the Realms of Glory' (arr. Jacques) during the Eucharist. The vicar enjoyed himself in the sermon, preaching on 'He has bared his Holy Arm' (a prophecy from Isaiah) and there ensued a 'find the person in the pews with the largest biceps' competition. His point was that God didn't come down in power and might, but in the vulnerability of a little baby. However, the competitiveness of many of the men in the congregation was quite revealing. The eventual winner looked quite disappointed not to be awarded a prize. Meanwhile, the younger choristers, whose biceps were definitely weeny, returned home armed with giant chocolate bar selection boxes. The Christ Child may not show favouritism, but Mrs. Santa certainly does.