Church open to everyone
A VALLEYS church is set to open its doors on Christmas Day with a day of activities so no-one has to be on their own during the festivities. The event is free and open to all.
A CHURCH in Aberdare is set to open its doors on Christmas Day once again so no-one has to be on their own during the festivities.
St Fagan’s Church in Trecynon is now in its fourth year of hosting a whole day of activities including eating Christmas dinner to watching the Queen’s Speech – with the day free and open to everyone.
Guests will also get a present, donated by local businesses, as well as being able to take part in a sing-song and enjoy a visit from Santa.
Last year, about 70 guests showed up for the festivities. Due to the capacity of the hall it can only host the same number again.
So far, about 20 people have registered interest in volunteering for part of the day, but Father Richard Green thinks they need three times as many.
Fr Green said: “It will be the same as last year, but it’s our fourth year. I have always got a great response from the community.
“The people who want to come and volunteer have contacted us quite early. I got one at the end of October. It’s really encouraging that people are keen to come.
“We could do with maybe even 50 or 60 volunteers to look after all the different aspects of the day.”
For Fr Green, it’s the community spirit he’s seen that makes the event a success for him.
“I think people just see it as a really good opportunity to get involved in the local community and help out,” he said.
“Christmas is such a special time for people that are not even religious. People generally want to help out if there are people on their own.
“People enjoy the celebration at home but they have this feeling they want to do something practical rather than sit at home with the TV.
“I think it’s really encouraging to see the community spirit in Aberdare – that people are willing to help.
“It sums up the spirit of Christmas. I’m hoping it will be a successful event and people enjoy themselves and have a great time.”
Anyone interested has to pay a £5 deposit they can get back on the day. But Father Green said anyone unable to pay would not be turned away.
Those interested in volunteering or attending on the day should contact Fr Green on 01685 881435 or by email at vicar.stfagans@btconnect.com