NIEU-BETHESDA NEWS — The NG Kerk in Nieu-Bethesda welcomed a large congregation to its annual Christmas carol Service last Sunday evening.

This beautiful programme was initiated by Nelda Pienaar many years ago and has become a firm tradition in the NG Church.This year, Hanna van Heerden coordinated the programme as Nelda was unable to due to health reasons.

Led by Ingrid Boschoff, the programme followed a celestial theme with songs, readings, musical items and prayers all revolving around the wonders of the firmament. The antique gas lights were lit by Peet van Heerden, creating a warm glow that seemed to envelop the villagers and visitors in attendance.

The church was beautifully decorated by Jacquie Olivier who transformed the altar into a galaxy of hand-painted stars that swooped down onto the Manger-bed.

The Christmas service was a testament to the diverse talent of the Nieu-Bethesda community. Small children lit candles and sang ‘Twinkle twinkle little star’; Charl du Toit played the violin accompanied by Adeleen Nel on the ancient pipe organ; a talented trio of ladies sang ‘Bethlehem se ster’; Philip Olifant led his choir in passionate, unified song; Boetie Pienaar also graced the congregation with a solo, and Lou Snyman read a touching and powerful prayer. It is always wonderful, at Christmas time, to celebrate the birth of Christ in a celebration of joy-filled song, and this evening that showcased the abundant talent in our area was no exception.

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