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09
Dec 2020
Masham to stage outdoor Christmas services
Christmas services are to be staged outdoors in Masham in response to covid restrictions.
Canon David Cleeves, who oversees the Masham group of parishes, wanted his parishioners to experience the "light and hope" of Christmas.
But with singing banned in churches, except for socially-distanced choirs, it would have been impossible for worshippers to perform traditional carols.
So Canon Cleeves asked Masham Parish Council for permission to stage two services outdoors, and his request was granted this week.
The Market Place will host a carol service at 4pm on December 20 as well as a short service aimed at children and families at 4pm on Christmas Eve.
Outdoor services are also planned in North Stainley, West Tanfield and Healey.
Advent services, which are some of the busiest of the year, have been affected by covid restrictions.
Canon Cleeves said rural communities had a strong community feel. He added:
During the pandemic the group of churches offered services via zoom and telephone conferencing. It has also been ringing some of its isolated members for a chat.
Read more:
- Masham could see the return on its Artisan Market.
- Nidderdale vicar has asked parishioners to book early for Christmas services.
Similar outdoor services were held on Remembrance Sunday. Masham Parish Council praised the church for its organisation and was quick to approve its petition for Christmas services.
Parish councillor Ian Johnson, said:
To find the dates and times of the services, click here.
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