Shining eyes

The Priory lights lowered, candle flames flickered and danced in the choir’s candle holders, the capacity congregation fell into an expectant silence.

A single voice sang, strong and clear into the darkness, from St Giles’ Chapel
’Creator of the starry height,
thy people’s everlasting light,
Jesu, redeemer of us all,
hear thou thy servants when they call’

It was a profound and moving moment, as the choir processed to the west end, gathering for the introit, and, with the backdrop of Christmas trees and beautiful floral decorations, the first verse of ‘Once in Royal David’s City’, invited all to remember the birth of our saviour.

Carols, Bible readings, and a selection of thought-provoking poetry retold the age-old story of the incarnation, afresh ‘ When God lay in his mother’s arms, two thousand years ago’ (‘Nativity’ Jan Dean). The huge congregation sang traditional carols with gusto - surely their voices could be heard on the (Malvern) ‘hills so lonely’ above the Priory…where the sheep safely graze?

And the youngest chorister sat reflectively, listening as the adult choir sang ‘Bethlehem Down’; Peter Warlock’s glorious, wistful, harmonies glimmering into the ancient space.

Prayers and a a resounding organ voluntary (Guilmant Grand Choeur in D) played by the Assistant Organist and expertly page turned by the Organ Scholar, brought the ‘very special’ service to a close.

Such was the demand for the service, the Priory reached capacity by 6.15 and no more people could be admitted for everyone’s safety. We offer our heartfelt apologies to all who we had to turn away who had wished to worship at the service. We will attempt to address the capacity issue for 2026.