Pub crawl with a difference!

One evening in the final week of term before the Christmas break, around 15 staff, students and Cliff community members went carol singing in the local pubs in the neighbouring villages of Baslow and Calver. Although there weren't many people in some of the pubs, those who were there thoroughly enjoyed what we did; some clapping loudly and giving us requests!

Although sadly we would never have got through the first round of the X Factor, one person commented that she was thrilled at how good we all sounded after virtually no practice, particularly the spontaneous three part harmonies! One pub landlord asked if we could go back every night that week! It must be quite boring in his pub!

We sang a few carols in each pub, gave out free mince pies and collected over £80 for a local charity. For us at Cliff, this is one practical way of getting involved with our local community.

It sometimes feels as if the true message of Christmas is squeezed out more and more, as we focus on presents and even what's on TV, it was fantastic to bring something of the truth of the Gospel into the pubs around here. As we sang the most amazing words in many of the old carols, we truly sensed God at work.

Maybe this is something you could try next Christmas in your area?

Did you get up to anything in your area for Christmas? Drop us a note in the comments and let us know! Have a great 2008!

Sue