Thanks for Carols in The Engine Room

The Engine Room was filled to capacity on the evening of December 7th for our annual Carols event – a sold-out evening that brought our community together in the loveliest way possible.

Once again organised by Mike and Angie Stear, the evening was everything we could have hoped for: warm, joyful, and genuinely moving. We sang our way through many beloved carols, Michelle, Alice and Fredi and Angie leading the singing and Clara Pears accompanying beautifully on the piano.

Throughout the evening, members of our community shared readings and poems, each contribution adding to the special atmosphere.

A heartfelt thanks to the Engine Room staff for staying late to serve mulled wine and mince pies, making the evening even more welcoming.

While the mood was sweet and cheerful, Mike took a moment to remind us that not everyone will be having a happy Christmas this year. He asked us to spare a thought for people in the Middle East, Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ukraine, countries torn apart by war. It was a poignant reminder that brought depth to our celebration.

Mike shared why he and Angie organize this event each year: "We're just happy to bring people together, to pause awhile away from all the business and commercialism of this time of year, to enjoy being together as part of the community and to focus on the heart of Christmas."

That sentiment captured the evening perfectly. In a season that can feel rushed and overwhelming, this gathering offered something precious: a chance to simply be together, to sing, to reflect, and to remember what matters most.

Our thanks to Mike and Angie for their dedication in creating this space for us again this year.