I’m so proud

Sunday was one of our biggest days of the year. I was so proud of everyone who took part and the excellence that was achieved. It was our Carols by Candlelight Sunday and this year we had a service at 4pm, 6pm and 8pm. My passion was to see the true story of Christmas communicated in a way that combined powerful art, music and drama with relevance and authenticity. At the 4pm I think we achieved this in quite a simple way to the 2 – 7 year olds (the parents seemed to appreciate it). As I sat and watched the 6pm and 8pm services, I was time and time again amazed by the talent and giftedness on display at PBC, all being used for God’s glory. Stuart Christie has done an incredible job refitting our lighting and AV just in time for these big services, and then he served tirelessly throughout the whole day to ensure that our services had brilliant sound and lighting. The Music & Worship band hit the ball out the park and had such a great sound. The choir was exceptional this year, and I had the best seat in the house: I was able to watch Nick Dufton’s face as he conducted the choir. What a range of expressions! Emily’s performance as Mary had the high quality of acting that drama needs to have if you want it to move and absorb the audience. The welcome team, the hospitality in the hall of mulled wine and mince pies… I could go on, but all across the board a level of excellence was achieved that I hope PBC aims for each year.

We reflected on the events today as a Staff Team and captured some great learnings for next year which we’re going to pull into a report and present to the Elders. One of the main points was that this year was real evidence that planning early and empowering the right people in the right roles is the key in achieving a high standard at these services. So much stress that we had last year has been avoided this year by simply planning earlier. I am far less exhausted this year than I was last year, thanks to the great Staff Team at PBC and the wider PBC family. Next year we can consider having a dress rehearsal on the Wednesday night before the Sunday just to iron out last minute things and give us all a chance as those taking part to pray and prepare together.

Well done everyone, it’s a joy to serve with you.