Last year over 1000 of us gathered in the Sports Hall for our Advent Service. It was a joyous occasion which closed with an exuberant rendition of My Lighthouse – a hymn of faith about God leading people ‘safe to shore’. This year, we gathered in a much smaller, socially distanced groups to mark a year when there have been times when we’ve felt anything but safe. 

A group of Year 9 students led the service which mixed singing performances, dance, reflections, prayers, video and live broadcast to explore the story leading to the birth of Jesus. 

There were many parallels with this year - with elements of the Nativity story involving difficult news to be passed on and, of course, the track and trace census which caused Maryam and Yusef (the names of Mary and Joseph in Aramaic) to be in Bethlehem. 

In the end of a difficult year, it was amazing to see the generosity of students and staff in supporting the Micah Foodbank and that willingness to help others was expressed in a wonderful solo rendition of Give a Little Love. 

Personal tributes were paid to key workers including the staff who responded with a video invitation to Step Into Christmas with performances probably never intended by Elton John! 

Thanks to all who took part in the Services especially the Year 9 dancers, choir, actors, readers and technical team who mixed the vision and sound elements of these poignant services which were full of thanksgiving and hope.