Christmas Eve
A Mass with Carols. More Massy than carolly.
My wife came with me, which meant the world to me. She was really good about it, even though carols came with all our Catholic stuff.
The church was packed, as I’d been told, which was why we arrived early. We sat a few rows ahead of where I normally sit, which gave us a much better view. My usual spot is behind a giant pillar. From here we could see everything.
Also the musicians, about a dozen of them. With tell tale guitars and flutes which had be on edge. But the sound they made was nice.
I came to realise how much I liked the carols. I’m no singer, but there’s goodness in belting out the words, especially when they’re familiar.
The service was a full mass, with lots of instruction from Canon P, keeping in mind the non-regular attendees that day. And there was that moment when we get onto our knees during the Creed. Just a moment, but one loaded with meaning.
And so we walked home feeling quite chipper. As though Christmas had now started, as indeed it had. Hearts full.