The real reason for the season

For the past several years my wife and I have established a wee Christmas Eve tradition. 

Firstly, we join with my cousin and wife early evening for their festive soirée. It's a hoot.

We then tend to relax before joining with our friends at Willowfield Parish in East Belfast. This is the time when we reinforce what Christmas is really all about.

Willowfield Parish is such a welcoming place. This time of year it's usually decorated with candles and Christmas trees. It is beautiful building with colourful stained glass windows and pillar box red cushioned seats. Of all the people that come, some have a faith while others are just exploring faith. Suppose what I'm really trying to convey is that it's a really inclusive, friendly and welcoming place.

This community get-together starts at 11.15pm. It's a special Christmas Eve contemporary communion service. With communion you can either opt in or out. 

This is one of our favourite services of the year and the perfect way to welcome in Christmas Day. 

There will be carols led by the Willowfield worship band and teaching from David McClay on ‘The Greatest Birth.’ 

C'mon and join us if you're free. It really helps us rediscover "the real reason for the season."