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St. Mark’s Church will be beacon of light with a Christmas Tree Festival
St Mark's Church Newtownsaville welcomes visitors to the Christmas Tree Festival 5-7 December.
One of the picturesque churches in Clogher Diocese, St. Mark’s Parish Church, Newtownsaville, part of the Clogher Cathedral Group, will be lighting up their community this Christmas with a Christmas Tree Festival this weekend from Friday, 5 December to Sunday, 7 December.
It is titled ‘Light of the World,’ where the organisers have been inspired by John Ch 8 verse 12 when Jesus said; “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
The Rector, Revd Olie Downey said; “I have no doubt that our Christmas Tree Festival will be amazing, however the most important part for us as a church family is to share our joy and peace of Jesus being at the very centre of this Christmas season.
“This will be a wonderful weekend to begin your countdown to Christmas.”
The Festival begins on the Friday evening with an official opening at 7pm with Murley Silver Band. Making the most of the hilltop setting of St. Mark’s, the organisers will have a real life stable for their resident donkeys and Mary and Martha will also be on hand.
The driveway will be lit up with festive lights (assistance will be available for those who are unable to walk up the driveway).
At the top of the hill the 200-year-old church will be adorned with Christmas trees from across our community.
A Scavenger Hunt will be available for the children as visitors amble their way through the Christmas Tree and local organists, groups and choirs will provide music in the church during Saturday and Sunday.
Visitors exiting the church will have the opportunity to avail of some warm non-alcoholic mulled punch or cup of tea accompanied by some delights before strolling back down the avenue.
On the Friday evening, a new driveway surfacing project will be dedicated.
The opening times are; Friday, 5 December from 7pm to 9pm; Saturday, 6 December from 10am to 8pm and Sunday, 7 December from 2pm to 7pm.
The Festival will close on the Sunday evening with a special Carol Service.
The donations will be shared between Parish funds, Air Ambulance Northern Ireland and Children's Heartbeat Trust Northern Ireland.
Revd Olivia Downey with Stephen Bell and James Beck from Newtownsaville Church.