Day 20 #ElfieAdvent – Getting nostalgic about Christmases past and present

On Day 20 of Action Mental Health’s Elfie Advent Calendar, Samantha Coleman, Action Mental Health’s Fundraising and Engagement Co-ordinator, fondly reminisces on the moving and memorable Christmases of her childhood and beyond…

“I remember clearly, the first time in walked into St Nicholas’s ancient medieval church in Carrickfergus. I was 17 and was attending the Christmas by Candlelight, service, right on the stroke of 12 midnight. The atmosphere in the church was reverent but also buzzing with excitement – little ones in nightgowns, big coats and warm hats, snoozing on mum and dad’s knee, dreaming about what Santa would bring. As the years have gone by, I have attended regularly, but my new tradition since getting married is attending my husband’s church at Clonard, late on Christmas eve.”

This year, due to the ongoing pandemic, it won’t be possible, so I will watch Carol’s from Kings, light some festive candles, pop them on my window sill, and look out into the crisp night sky. I’ll look out eagerly, to see if I can spot the big man himself with Dancer, Prancer, Dasher, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Blitzen and of course, Rudolph.”

Day 20 #ElfieAdvent – Downpatrick sings Silent Night

Usually at Christmas time the talented musicians and singers from AMH New Horizons Downpatrick spread joy to local community groups by playing and singing carols. This year, as we all know, it is a little bit different! Our very talented staff Aisling and Ciara perform Silent Night – adhering to Covid-19 guidelines – for us all to enjoy! AMH Downpatrick New Horizons wishes you a very Merry Christmas!