a churchy day

This was the scene when I entered the Crichton church this evening, a little late so the choir were already practising. We had the privilege of singing at the Christmas service of Dumfries and Galloway SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society). It was an incredibly moving occasion, especially when members of the congregation (so many of them!) went up to hang a tag on the Christmas tree or to light a candle. Then the lights were turned off for a moment of silence, and it was as if this beautiful space was holding all that grief and sadness and all those people. So special. We sang "The Lost Words Blessing" and "Queen of the Earth", two very emotional songs. And then finished up with "When Shepherds Watched Their Flocks" with the Dumfries Town Band.

Earlier in the day I had joined in with the Dunscore Eco Group's monthly litter pick, followed by coffee and mince pies in the church (see extra). That was good fun :-)