Bitterne United Reformed Church celebrated a joyful and hope‑filled Christmas season, welcoming hundreds of visitors to our Christmas Tree Festival, Nativity Service, Christingle, and Carol Services. Across December, our building was full of families, community groups, music, and festive outreach — a wonderful way to mark our 40th anniversary year in the Bitterne Precinct.
Christmas Highlights
- Christmas Tree Festival across five dates, with Father Christmas visiting on Saturdays.
- Nativity with puppets (14 Dec) and Carol Service with Holy Communion (21 Dec).
- Christingle Service on Christmas Eve, with Christingle‑making in the morning.
- Christmas Day Family Service led by Dave White.
- Community Carolling in the precinct with Churches Together.
Community & Pastoral Care
We held in prayer all who found Christmas difficult — those grieving, unwell, isolated, or facing hardship. Our Senior Citizens group enjoyed festive gatherings, including a Christmas lunch and carols with mince pies. We also supported Scratch Christmas Complete Appeal, Link to Hope, and The Leprosy Mission.
Events & Activities
- Women’s Group sessions, including Singing for Wellbeing.
- Board Games Evenings.
- Riverside Concert Band Christmas performance.
- Bitterne Local History Society Christmas concert.
- Jigsaw Puzzle Festival raised £3,760 for church work.
Eco & Justice Focus
This issue included eco advice on sustainable toilet rolls and ethical Christmas shopping, plus updates on national heritage funding changes affecting listed churches.
Outreach & Community Work
Our Outreach Community Worker continued strengthening partnerships, refreshing digital content, supporting events, and developing inclusive and accessible church activities. Highlights included:
- Website and social media improvements
- Canva membership and Google Analytics setup
- New leaflets for weddings, baptisms, membership, and room hire
- Advent Bible Study promotion
- Planning for 2026 anniversary events
Looking Ahead
January brought:
- A 40th Anniversary Reunion Service
- Bible Study gatherings
- Women’s Group activities
- Continued Senior Citizens meetings