The Wandsworth Stake Centre, London, was a scene of celebration to the birth of our Saviour this Christmas Eve as the Manna Road Gospel Choir performed for over 200 members and invited local government dignitaries.
In attendance were the Mayor of Wandsworth Councillor Jane Cooper, the Mayor of Southwark Councillor Lorraine Lauder, MBE and Deputy Mayor of Southwark Councillor Althea Smith.
The celebration was most memorable for the beautiful choral arrangements from the choir and solo performers.
Additionally, Councillor Althea Smith read Isaiah 40:3 and 11, whilst Mayor Lorraine Lauder read Luke 2:8-16
As part of the later programme we were privileged to have a speech from Mayor Jane Cooper who spoke on the subject of love and service, the message of Christ.
Members of the congregation and our guests were able to join in the celebration at one point when musical instruments were circulated to as many as possible, which brought a lot of joy and smiles all round.
An indication of the enjoyment experienced was that although the programme was running a little behind Mayor Jane Cooper asked for all verses of the closing carol to be sung. Our special guests were so impressed with the hospitality and performances that they expressed a wish to be invited to a similar event again.
Stake President, Roderick Anatsui, promised in his closing remarks that "we will do our best to raise the standard even further next year and put on a performance on a much grander scale".
The entire evening's celebration was a success both in terms of uplifting the spirit and presenting the Church at an ambassadorial level to local government officials. Special thanks go to the Manna Road Gospel Choir, led by sister Verona Briscoe and many others who helped make the event such a success.