Spirit alive and well

By Luke Russell
RESURRECTION Parish celebrated the festive season in full voice last Sunday at its annual Carols by Candlelight celebrations.
Highlighted by rousing renditions of classic carols, Christmas spirit overflowed with more than 400 people in attendance.
Full of Christmas joy, parish priest Father Brian Collins was delighted at the success of the celebrations.
“It is wonderful to see so many people here to celebrate,” he said.
“Carols by Candlelight is a great coming together of our worshipping community, working community and the wider Keysborough community.”
Members of the parish formed a strong band of musicians and singers, showcasing the musical talents of many locals.
The big hit of the night proved to be the children’s choir, represented by students from Resurrection Primary School.
The children, who had been practising each day at lunchtime, delighted the crowd under the leadership of their teacher Carmel Barwick.
The donation of gifts for those in need and the sharing of a free barbecue dinner provided by Resurrection Parish created the perfect setting for the colourful crowd.
Carols by Candlelight has become a strong tradition for Resurrection Parish in the lead up to Christmas.
Fr Collins said the night was an opportunity to reflect upon the difficult issues facing society such as poverty, unemployment, relationship difficulties, bushfires and drought.
“With people in our country facing great hardships, we are reminded of the compassion and the hope for tomorrow that celebrating Christmas brings.”
Christmas celebrations will continue at Resurrection Parish throughout the week.