St John Vianney carol service spreads Christmas cheer

The spirit of Christmas shone through when pupils from St John Vianney Catholic Primary led a candle-lit carol service at St John Vianney Church on Wednesday 17 December.

Around 120 Year 5 and 6 children from our school took part in the celebratory event, which featured readings, as well as performances from soloists, duets, and other ensembles, along with the school choir.

“The children were singing carols, punctuated by readings which told the Christmas story through Scripture, including solos from some of our Year 6 children singing ‘How Can This Be’,” said Year 6 Teacher Judith Black.

“A highlight of the carol concert was the children singing the Christmas classic ‘O Holy Night’.”

The concert was the final in a series of three, with the Year 1 and 2 pupils, and Year 3 and 4 children, already having held their own respective carol services in the church.

Besides Mrs Black, staff involved in the event included Music Teacher Kathryn Davison; Music Lead and Year 5 Teacher Katherine Dolphin; fellow Year 5 Teacher Olivia Barker; and Year 6 Teachers Lewis Exley and Judith Haughton.

“Together these teachers have led rehearsals, including choosing and practising with soloists, duets, and other ensembles,” continued Mrs Black. “The school choir, who have entered a national competition, also sang.”

It was the second year that the event had taken place at the church.

“Carol concerts were usually held in the school hall, but since RAAC roofing and moving into our temporary smaller building, this cannot happen in school,” explained Mrs Black.

“So this has been our second year using St John Vianney Church. We are very grateful for their support in allowing us to use the Church for our concert.”

“Our carol concert is so important, because it brings the whole community together in a meaningful way,” she added. “Singing in the church helps the children understand the true spirit of Christmas and connect with their faith. It’s also a chance for them to learn about tradition, build confidence, and work as a team.

“Events like this strengthen the bond between school, families, and parish, and remind us all of the joy and hope that Christmas represents.”