In our third film for #SouthwarkAdvent, the choir from Archbishop Tenison’s School performed at St Matthew’s Church, Croydon’s Christmas Tree Festival Concert
The school choir performed the carol ‘The First Noel’ and ‘Born Is The King (It’s Christmas)’ by Hillsong as part of the concert, and shared the meaning behind each song. The evening brought together a wide range of local musical talent, surrounded by Christmas trees and displays from community groups that use the church.
Revd Ruth Chapman, Vicar of St Matthew’s Church and one of the chaplains at Archbishop Tenison’s, shared “I’m absolutely delighted that we get so much support from Tenison’s in our services here, and that we can work together to encourage and nurture the faith of our amazing young people. It’s important for the church to work with young people, not because the children are the future of the church – it’s because they’re the church now. Listening to their voices, listening to their ideas, listening to their energy, getting them to take part in services is so important in our church life.”
The Church of England school has a close relationship with St Matthew’s, with each year group visiting the church every week for acts of worship and assemblies, as well as taking part in events like the concert. Prayer is part of the day to day life at Archbishop Tenison’s, with prayers for each school term and before classes.
While making this film, I was struck as much by the incredible stained glass windows at St Matthew’s as by the joy and excitement that came from such a lively and exciting evening. There was a wide range of performances – from local choirs like Tenison’s to individual pieces on bagpipes and the organ. One highlight near the end of the concert saw the church lights switched off and everyone singing ‘Silent Night’ in a room lit only by Christmas trees, candles and the stained glass.
Catch up with our other #SouthwarkAdvent films here, and find out more about St Matthews here.
