On the evening of Sunday 14th December, St Paul’s Church was once again filled with people seeking to start their Christmas festivities with an uplifting spiritual and musical celebration of the Nativity, offering worship to God with an unmistakable English ‘flavour’.
The nine readings took us on a journey from the Fall of Man in the Garden of Eden, through the ancient prophecy of a Redeemer, Mary’s acceptance of her Holy mission and the birth of Jesus as a saviour for all, whether you are a King or a Shepherd. These timeless lessons reminded us that Jesus really did experience human life in all its joys and troubles right from his first breath, born far from home in the humblest of temporary shelters, and soon to be a refugee to escape Herod’s murderous persecution.
The musical programme, devised by Errol Girdlestone, the Director of Music at St Paul’s, followed and complemented the story of the lessons, blending rousing congregational carols such as “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”, with fabulous choral performances of very traditional English songs with their unique harmonies. Probably the most emotional moment of the service was soaring top notes of “O Holy Night” from soprano Felicity Murphy, who, supported by the choir, took us all reverently heavenward.
As this is the official Centenary year for the church, there were two special additions to the evening before the service itself began; the dedication of a commemorative marble plaque hand inscribed by Alessandro Troisi and the dedication of an olive-wood processional cross, which was donated by the British School of Monaco and beautifully crafted by Gideon Levingston.
We were delighted and honoured by the presence of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, who not only witnessed the dedications, but read one of the nine lessons and joined the happy throng for refreshments and conversation afterwards. Our thanks go to Gabby Crump for providing and elegant and delicious spread which included English festive favourites such as sausage rolls and mince pies, and to everyone who made this year’s event so memorable.
The occasion, presided over by Fr Hugh, is a wonderful example of the work of St Paul’s, combining Christian teaching with superb music and warm hospitality to foster a real sense of community where all are welcome.
