International Carol’s Across Bristol

The feast of the Epiphany this year was prefaced at St Bonaventure’s parish in Bishopston, Bristol by a visitation from people of many different nationalities celebrating the Christmas season with music and song from their own cultures.

They represented the wonderful diversity that exists in Bristol and that enlivens so many of our churches of all denominations. Caribbean and African countries were represented in the One World Choir from St Nicholas of Tolentino parish from the Easton district of Bristol, with their vibrant mix of drumming and song, and two members of the Filipino choir of St Mary-on-the-Quay in the city centre delighted us with a selection of Filipino Christmas carols.

The congregation enjoyed Polish songs, the British contribution from Nota Bene and gospel music from the ever popular Channels Only. The entertainment was rounded off with Cameroonian balafon music before the final blessing from Father David Payne of the Russian Orthodox Church.

During the course of the evening we heard a moving interview with an asylum seeker who, having had her application refused, is forced to rely on charity to survive. She bravely agreed to this interview to highlight the plight of such people, who are the focus of the Church Action on Poverty campaign ‘Living Ghosts’. As a result of this the congregation contributed very generously to a support fund, before enjoying refreshments and conversation in the presbytery.

Sue Smailes
Useful URL : http://www.st-bons.org.uk