As the Christmas season approaches, one of the most cherished traditions for many is attending a carol service. The sound of voices singing classic Christmas songs, the warmth of community, and the spirit of giving all come together to create a truly magical experience. But for some, this experience is not just about spreading Christmas cheer – it’s about saving lives.
Several years ago, I was fortunate enough to meet with Pastor John from Noddfa Church. We spoke about the idea of Noddfa hosting a carol service for Christmas. We bounced around a few ideas, from hosting the event at Keepers Pond (which is actually not in Torfaen) to eventually settling on The Big Arch.
The Big Arch is a well-known landmark in the community, and we thought it would be the perfect location for a traditional carol service.
But as we discussed the logistics of the event, my colleague Gwyneira and I began to think about the bigger impact this carol service could have. We wanted to do something meaningful and give back to our community in a meaningful way. And that’s when we decided to make this event not just about spreading Christmas cheer, but also about raising funds for a local charity.
Last Sunday, December 17th 2023, the carols under The Big Arch took place again with over 500 people in attendance. It was a traditional community carol service with a local brass band providing beautiful music. But this year, it was more than just an event – it was also a fundraiser again for the Daniel Jones Charity (Torfaen Mind).
The Daniel Jones Charity provides free counselling services for those who have considered suicide. Mental health is often overlooked and stigmatised, but it is an incredibly important issue that affects so many people. We wanted to use this carol service as an opportunity to not only bring people together but also to raise awareness and funds for this important cause.
Every penny donated during the carol service goes directly towards providing free counselling services for those in need. And let me tell you, this event literally saves lives.
As with any event, there were some logistics to consider. We made sure to provide parking options for attendees, including reserved spots for Blue Badge holders near The Big Arch as we wanted to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
But the most important part of the evening was the gathering under The Big Arch. As always It was a sight to behold – hundreds of people coming together under this iconic landmark, singing carols and spreading joy. It was a true testament to the power of community and the spirit of giving within the Abersychan Ward.
If you haven’t been to a carol service under The Big Arch, I highly recommend it. Not only is it a beautiful and heartwarming experience, but it also supports a great cause. So mark your calendars for next year and join us in making a difference in our community!
Giles Davies 