CHRISTMAS IS TIME FOR HOPE AND CHANCE TO LOOK BACK AND FORWARD

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

GRAVENHURST — Christmas Eve was muted much as last.

Some church congregations gathered in limited numbers with services pale by past years’ celebrations — perhaps more meaningful and prayerful given COVID’s long two years.

And to them still hopeful that Omicron won’t prove to be as deadly and sickly and stressful as Delta and Alpha.

Organs, music, hymns and Christmas carols remained, however at the heart was the hopeful message that what began with climate, indigenous and social and racial change will continue out of latest losses.

One only knows what’s in people’s hearts and prayers and what ’22 brings.

Christmas is at least one day for optimism.

Carpe diem! Do something for yourself — and reach out to others in some way if you can.

If not stay as close to home and safe as possible.

Merry Christmas!

There were few in the pews at the Presbyterian church in Gravenhurst Christmas Eve, but what they lacked in numbers they made up for in the joyful spirit of the season.

 

The lights were on at the United Church and its giant stained glass window evoked the warmth that was insides as congregants prayed for peace and hope for 2022, while reflecting on the past two years of COVID.
Rev. Heather Manual greets parishioners as they emerge from service at the Anglican church beneath what looks like the star of Bethlehem as the bells ring and trumpeter Mark Clairmont played a few Christmas carols outside. Inside minister of music Kim Hawn and Darryl Hollingsworth helped with the festive sounds.

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