This is a Christmas activity which lasts from Advent Sunday (30th November) to Christmas Eve. It is a way of remembering the journey that Mary and Joseph made to Bethlehem 2000 years ago.
Small, knitted versions of Mary and Joseph, together with their donkey, travel around different households in the communities of Flitton, Pulloxhill, Silsoe and Wardhedges and stay there for one night. They eventually end up at church on Christmas Eve (whichever Crib service you attend – doesn’t matter which one – Flitton 10.30, Silsoe 3pm or Pulloxhill 5pm).
You are invited to sign up to host Mary and Joseph for a night. It’s open to everyone, adults and children, young and older people. It’s a great way to be involved in the Christmas story, and to remember the true meaning of the season. If you would like to join in, you can sign up for a night between 30th November and 23rd December. Mary, Joseph and the donkey will be brought to your house on the day that they are staying with you. They will be in a weatherproof bag; in case you are not at home when they arrive. If this happens, they will be left on your doorstep. If possible, though, it would be good to try and meet the person or the family you are handing them on to, just to say hello. If you want to take a little time to share any refreshments, that is also OK, if you all agree and if you have time.
In the bag, there will also be an Advent Candle to light (adults please take responsibility for this). There will be a Christmas story book to read and a prayer to pray together. Also, some sheep, a lot of sheep. This is so that if there are children in the house, they can keep one each or bring them to church on Christmas Eve.
For reasons of confidentiality and GDPR, the list of contact details for people taking part will only be held by Revs Louise and Simon. Louise will let you know, with the permission of the relevant people before and after you on the list, who is bringing the Holy Family to you and who you are to deliver it to the next day.
If you would like to choose a particular date, you are welcome to specify. Likewise, if you would like to hand them on to particular people (eg your neighbours if they are taking part), we will do our best to place you and them next to each other on the list.
If you would like to join in, please contact Rev Louise Moore by email RevLouise@3churches.uk or phone 01525 643478 or WhatsApp 07729 385830