Invitation to the 2018 Civic Carol Service

Civic Carol Service

READING Minster will throw open its doors for the Civic Carol Service on Thursday 13th December.

Members of the public are invited to join the free service which will include a selection of favourite carols and lessons read by special guests. The Civic Service is a highlight of the town’s festive season and will once again be hosted by Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin, in St Mary’s Butts, at 6.30pm. The service includes carols for the whole congregation to join in with, including ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ and ‘We Three Kings’, as well as performances from the Reading A440 Choir and the Reading Borough Council Staff Choir. The Mayor of Reading Cllr Debs Edwards, as well as guests from Reading, will read traditional readings throughout the service. Rev Judith Sumner will welcome the congregation to the Minster and invite members to enjoy mulled wine and mince pies after the service.

Mayor of Reading, Councillor Debs Edwards, said:

“The Civic Carol Service is a much loved part of Christmas in Reading. There are so many magical events taking place across the town this year and the carol service, in particular, is a great way for people to come together and celebrate the festive season. I’m looking forward to seeing as many people as possible at the Minster on Thursday 13th December. Join in with the festive cheer and enjoy a delicious mulled wine and a mince pie after the service! “As well as all the fun and excitement the festive season brings, Christmas is also a time for giving and thinking of others. My Mayor of Reading Christmas cards will be available for sale at the service and people will be donating much needed cash to my chosen local charities and helping to make a real difference to people’s lives.” This years' service is part of the festive programme 'Magical Christmas in Reading' for more information on the full programme of events and activities see www.magicalreading.co.uk

ENDS

Notes

An overview of festive activities in Reading can be found by visiting: www.magicalreading.co.uk The Mayor’s Christmas cards are available from Cards for Good Causes in Reading Minster, Reading Town Hall, The Hexagon and the Civic Offices in Bridge Street. They are priced at just £1 each or five for £4.50. All the money raised from the sale of the cards will go to the Mayor’s four chosen charities; Berkshire Women’s Aid, Launchpad, Berkshire West Your Way and YMCA Reading. Anyone who would also like to donate to the Mayor of Reading Charity Fund can do so by visiting https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Mayor-of-Reading-Charity-Fund