Greetings, beloved ones!

I am Gabriel, the Christmas Angel, and I bring you a message of great joy — just as I once shared with the shepherds on that holy night in Bethlehem.

Today, I want to tell you about a beautiful tradition at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in East London that fills the heavens with rejoicing: the annual carol service. Each year, voices at St. Andrew’s rise in song, echoing the heavenly choirs who sang, “Glory to God in the highest!” Every year, there is a different theme, and this year’s theme was “Singing with the Angels,” which calls all hearts to celebrate the Good News of Christ’s birth. Just as the shepherds gathered in wonder, people from far and near are drawn together to sing praises and reflect on God’s peace and hope.

It is truly a sight to behold — each year, I see so many different people from all over East London attending this special service.

St. Andrew’s is a space rich with history and faith. In 2022, the congregation celebrated 150 years of worship, 140 years of its beautiful church building, and 90 years of the radiant stained-glass windows that tell stories of God’s love. These walls have witnessed generations of praise, making the carol service even more meaningful.

But the celebration does not end with song alone!

After the service, the people gather in joyful fellowship, sharing warm conversations and delicious St. Andrew’s Christmas biscuits, lovingly baked by the women of the church. This time of togetherness mirrors the love and unity that Christ’s birth brings to the world.

Carols at St. Andrew’s remind us of the angelic message I once shared:

“Do not be afraid; I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”

This Christmas, wherever you are, come and join in joyful singing. For when you sing with the angels, you proclaim God’s glory and share the wonders of His love.

May your voice rise in praise, and may your heart be filled with heavenly peace.

Pastor H-P von Fintel, St. Andrew’s