A traditional Christmas story, told through trees shrouded in darkness beneath a starlit sky, was exhibited at a church near Lowestoft.
And it certainly proved to be a popular attraction over the weekend as this inaugural Christmas Tree festival at St Luke's Church in Oulton Broad was hailed a 'great' success.
The church in Homefield Avenue showcased the Christmas story as it has rarely been seen before – as groups who use the church hall all combined to produce a range of different Christmas trees portraying special scenes.
From the Little Buddies pre-school, through the Brownies and Guides, to the Ladies Guild and church regulars, each created a Christmas tree that guided visitors on a journey through the Bible, through the darkness and into the light.
The Rev Gillie Powell was delighted with the success of this inaugural festival, which had been planned by members of the congregation for the past year.
Rev Powell said: 'The idea is this exhibition tells the story of Christmas in Christmas trees. This is a community church, and all the people who use it have been involved – from the pre-school to Ladies Guild – each of them have done a tree.'
Visitors were guided by torchlight as they walked through a starlit passage, which had been specially created in the church hall.
With information and contact details about all the organisations using the church available, along with refreshments, Rev Powell added: 'A lot of prayer, thought and planning has gone into this they have all done a brilliant job – I am so happy and excited by what has gone on.'
A special advent service was also held today (Sunday) as part of the weekend festival.
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