Preparing for the Festival of 175 Christmas Trees at Rossorry Parish Church are (from left); Canon Dr. Ian Ellis, rector; Alfie Graham, Katie Graham, Heather Ellis and David Morrison, Manager of the Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel and Chalets, sponsors of the Festival.
A UNIQUE Christmas Tree Festival at Rossorry Parish Church will give the parish the opportunity to present Christian hope and shine a light on the work of many charities, community groups, schools and churches which seek to extend the kingdom of God, says its rector, Canon Dr Ian Ellis.
The Festival of 175 Christmas Trees at Rossorry Church, supported by the Killyhevlin Hotel, opens this Thursday evening, November 24 and continues on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 25, 26 and 27 finishing with a closing Carol Service on Sunday evening.
The traditional Christmas tree became a popular tradition in England when Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert introduced it from his native Germany in the 1840’s. It quickly became adopted in homes across the country.
In 1841, Rossorry Parish Church was opened for worship on its present site and this Victorian theme will be used throughout the Festival weekend.
However many of the 175 Christmas trees on display will not be like the traditional form people have become accustomed to in their own homes. Each of the trees will be designed and decorated to represent the ethos and theme of charities, businesses and community groups throughout Fermanagh.
The Festival coincides with Rossorry Church’s 175th anniversary year and at the end of this year of celebration and fundraising for the church, donations will also be made to their nominated local, national and international charities.
Canon Ellis said he was looking forward to seeing the novel creations under the Festival theme “Joy to the World”, which will be staged in the church, stables and parish hall.
He said: “We are delighted to welcome you to this ‘Festival of 175 Christmas Trees’ to celebrate the 175th anniversary of our church on this site. The Festival would not have been possible without the support of local businesses, charities organisations, churches and schools. We are extremely grateful to all who have contributed to the success of this event.”
Refreshments will be served through the weekend.
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Posted: 8:23 am November 22, 2016