St Paul’s Mince Pies at the Kermesse Café Stand
On 7 December, the 54th Kermesse Oecumenique took place in the Chapiteau. Decked with delicious mince pies, cookies, cup cakes, banana breads — all homemade — St Paul’s café stand spread Christmas cheer to all who attended. All fare was generously made by our congregants and supporters, and served by our helpers. Jeremy’s barista work served countless cups of coffee and was helped by the lovely Mary who provided the tea. A big thank you to everyone who helped or contributed to make the day such a success.
A Toast to Charity: The Prince’s Tipple
In a delightful twist of social graces or perhaps just sheer festive enthusiasm, this season’s Kermesse turned into an event already being fondly remembered as “The Day of Merriment.” It wasn’t your usual bake sale, friends. Alongside the charming offerings of banana cake, biscuits, and that lifeline of vitality—coffee—there debuted an instant favourite: The Prince’s Tipple.
Commanding the taps with unparalleled flair was Russell Crump, whose dedication to the local gathering is only matched by his knack for spirited conversation. Alongside him was Bill from Virginia, who could pour a pint quicker than you could say “Cheers!”, and David, a mystery man with a gallant heart as full as the glasses he served. Together, they were the dynamic trio behind the bar, serving up spirits instead of speeches.
The drinks poured that day were nothing short of legendary. Brewed and bottled by our stalwart supporter, Slammers Bar Monaco, and the esteemed Groom family—who generously graced us with their fine wines and a bounty of Corona—the selection was something to behold. If there had been a trophy cabinet present, it would now showcase an array of empty bottles and well-popped corks.
In a separate corner, Mrs Alison Bearn, unofficially crowned the mulled wine wizard, kicked off the festive beverage fest with the finesse of a maestro leading a symphony—or in this instance, a chorus of the gleefully buzzed. Her concoction, rumoured to have joyous properties, received thorough quality control checks from our resident tasting expert, Martin. We hear he sampled multiple cups, solely in the name of quality control.
As the day wore on, and the crowd disbanded with laughter on their lips and jingling pockets lined for charity, it was unanimously agreed that the gathering was a grand success. Who would have imagined that spirits—both bottled and human—would mix so seamlessly?
Here’s to a year filled with laughter and even better libations. If you missed this round, worry not; there’s a reserved spot with your name on it at The Prince’s Tipple next year. Until then, may your goblets be full and your bonds even fuller—see you at the next gathering, where the only thing stronger than the drinks are the friendships made while enjoying them! Cheers! 
