The Parish of Mossley Christmas Tree Festival has raised more than £1,000 via to a series of events including the visit of Terry Waite CBE, President of Emmaus UK.
On Friday 13 December, the Emmaus Christmas Concert at St George’s Church kick-started a weekend of events. The festival was focussed around the main display of 45 Christmas trees decorated by local families, groups, schools and businesses. In total, the festival raised £1,069 that will be split between the church and homelessness charity Emmaus Mossley.
Alongside special guest speaker Terry Waite CBE, the Emmaus Christmas Concert included Mossley Hollins Brass Band and a carol singing service.
Terry Waite CBE, said: “I first visited Mossley many years ago when Emmaus was considering starting a community there. The building was cold and damp, and a massive face-lift was needed.
“The local community had never heard of Emmaus and wondered what they were letting themselves in for! Today… what a change. The building has been transformed into a warm home for the companions and the shop is a treasure trove. More than that, Emmaus has become a vital force in building community in Mossley. It’s a place where there is always a warm welcome to anyone.
“On behalf of Emmaus UK my thanks go to all who have built up such a good community. I would like to thank all those who support Emmaus and wish everyone a really happy and peaceful Christmas.”
Community support
Emmaus Mossley supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a home and work in a community setting. The charity runs a social enterprise in Mossley, selling donated and upcycled furniture, household goods, clothes and vintage wares.
The Reverend David Warner SCP, Vicar of Mossley, said: “It was a joy to welcome so many members of our local community to the festival, and particularly the companions of ‘our community’ at Emmaus. Their extraordinary work to upcycle, recycle and enhance the lives of all in our wider community is inspirational and we are so proud to support them.”
The Christmas Tree Festival took place between 13 and 15 December 2019 and was visited by more than 700 people. As well as the Emmaus Christmas Concert, the weekend included a concert by St John’s (Mossley Band) and a visit from Father Christmas. Following the festival, trees were donated to Emmaus Mossley for sale at their Secondhand Superstore.
To find out more or support Emmaus Mossley head to www.emmaus.org.uk/mossley. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 01457 838608 or visit the store.