The weather outside may have been miserable but inside Lismore’s church was cheery and bright thanks to the island’s Christmas tree festival.
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Rosemary Barry said: “The brief that ‘it must be recognisable as a tree and have lights’ was imaginatively interpreted by Lismore groups, businesses and individuals taking part.”
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From the imposing rough sawn planks of the Community Trust and the delicate red branch of the Community Bus to gossamer light flying angels and a toadstool inspired miniature garden with its tiny tree and lights, the display of trees around the church walls was impressive.
The primary school came up trumps with cardboard and paper chains and the Badminton Group with crocheted shuttlecocks.
The Heritage Centre and Café went for a more traditional look and there was even a nativity scene and a Dutch inspired traditional cookie hung tree.
The Christingle Service on Sunday morning was well attended and as the third advent candle was lit, the Christmas tree lights were switched on one by one. By the time the Christingles had been handed out and lit, it did not matter how dark it was outside.
“Mulled wine and hot chocolate, brownies and Christmas cake and a good natter rounded off a splendid morning. Minister Dugald’s turnip and nails Christingle effort had us all thinking and the children asking interesting questions,” added Rosemary.
The trees will be lit up again for the last service of the year on New Year’s Eve at 12.30pm.
Caption: Nora Smith of Lismore pre-five unit in front of the tree she helped create.
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