Here we go a wassailing!

Tuesday 19 December 2017
I have never been carol singing around a village before so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was advised to wrap up warmly and went along thinking that an hour of singing would put me into a festive mood. My heart sank when I was told that we wouldn't be finishing until about 9pm having started at 6pm! I was encouraged to keep going though by the promise of a feast at the end. Fortunately the night was mild although I wished that I had brought a torch as it was so dark! At a couple of stops along the way, we were offered Christmas cake and chocolate, which provided a much needed energy boost.

It was a joyful time; going around the village visiting people in their homes and sharing with them the good news of Christmas. Ron Kirk led the singing; playing the accordion and reminding us of the first line of the second verse when it was too dark to read the carol sheets. Doug Forrest lit the way with a lantern. The journey was a long one and treacherous in places with mud, ice, puddles and cars to negotiate. We kept our spirits up though and there was time to chat with friends as we made our way between homes. At some houses, no one answered and others we were on the point of going away when a light came on or the gate opened. Whenever anyone opened their door, there was a sense of celebration as we gathered in the light and warmth to sing together.

I hadn't realised how many houses there were in Seamer; we only went around half of the village! I was tired and my paws were cold by the time we returned to Seamer Chapel. I was invited in and made a 'bear'-line for the table laden with food. I tucked in grateful for that there was soup and hot jacket potatoes. As I ate, I was told that there would be more carol singing the next night in Seamer and, on Thursday, in Newby. The supper was provided by Pauline Forrest, who admired my jumper and scarf. I went home feeling tired but full, happy and glad that I had joined in.

Note from Christine Campy:
The donations received from the carol singing are for local Church funds. A Christmas card from Seamer Chapel is given to those who listen to the singing or put through the letter box of those who are out so every home is contacted. The card has a short Christmas Bible verse plus an invitation to join our weekly Sunday worship services and special children's services. There are also contact details for the Minister Rev Lisa & my name.