Why? Like every time we gather, this event is a celebration of Jesus, the Light in the Darkness. This event falls on the very longest night of the year, within Advent, the season of waiting. On the Winter Solstice we are waiting for the coming of the Light, the birth of the Messiah, and His eventual return in glory.

Marking Solstice makes sense to us because we are a church that is intentional about our relationship with God's creation, so it's very natural for us to note the changing of the seasons, especially around key seasonal shifts which greatly impact our experience of our worshipping environment. Marking them helps us approach our Creator with awe and wonder.

​

What? The service is unlike our usual pattern. It is shorter, later in the day, and is a whole experience that is entered into from the start. To opt in is assumed if you turn up. Ordinarily our children are free to roam and opt out if they choose to, but this will be very hard to do in the dark. Like our Holy Week programme, some aspects may be difficult for some children to engage with. Children are very welcome, but you know best whether your child will be up for the dark campfire experience in the woods.

​

The evening will follow a series of creative, participatory rituals helping us to connect with one another, reflect on the darkness in our own world and the Light of Christ, pray for our communities, express gratitude for what is good in our lives and let go of what is painful. There will be singing, blessings with oil, prayers, mulled cider (alcohol free), mince pies, and toasted marshmallows. 

​

When? Sunday 21st December. Meet at Chopwell Pump Track car park by 4:45pm. You will all be met by a guide who will lead you as a group to the church site by lantern (so please don't be later than 4.45pm!)