December 25, 2020

CHRISTMAS EVE VIGIL HARKENS HOPE FOR ANNUS HORRIBILIS

GRAVENHURST — As the world gathers today for to its most memorable Christmas — together and apart — celebrants will take time off to reflect on an annus horribilis while putting hope and faith in 2021.

The 12 days of Christmas, which begin today, will culminate in the midst of a pandemic lockdown and be cause for a joyous day as coronavirus vaccines spread far and wide.

And this week’s Saturn and Jupiter conjunction should be more than a bright star in the distant universe guiding the future.

Last night, on Christmas Eve, as Christians commenced with their church services — which some other faiths have already begun similarly — most were low-key if at all.

St. James Anglican Church, here, was typical.

Rev. Heather Manuel hosted a small outdoor candlelight vigil in which church members were invited to drive to, park and participate.

A table with memorial candles glittering in the night on the granite front steps of the church was arched by its porch that made it look like a stable manager.

You wouldn’t have had to make the Trek to Bala this year to witness a scene from Bethlehem.

Participants were invited to light a candle for a loved one, which everyone did.

With a light dusting of snow falling, the simple 6 p.m. 35-minute “service,” with some heralded Christmas carol singing was symbolic of 2020: muted, but moving and deeply meaningful.

Manuel, joined by her family, a couple of parishioners, a few passers-by and a visitor who rode up on a bicycle to see what he heard from afar, spoke quietly and as always passionately about the reason for the season and what it means this year.

She prayed for those present, those who have passed on due to COVID-19 this year and offered a message of hope with a big smile and a warm heart — thanks in part to her ankle-length sweater.

Of course, she offered everyone present and those staying safe at home a Merry Christmas before hosting a Zoom service at 7 p.m. for those unable or unwilling to attend.

See photos and video of service below.