Baptism during special service at Raloo church

Fittingly, there was also a baptism, with young Grace Annabelle Crawford received by Dr Nelson into the congregation.

Anne Downey, Nicole McDowell, Joe Graham, Rev Nelson and Alan Hall read the lessons. There was also Christmas poetry from Jamie McDowell, Brennan Wallace and Andrew McCann; a prayer from Rhianna Mehaffey; and a reading from Ryan McDowell, who also sang a verse of Away In A Manger.

John Mackey and Brennan Wallace lifted the collection.

As is the tradition at Raloo, their very own Black Santa, Rev Nelson, presented gifts from the Christmas tree to all children in the choir and the congregation; to Sunday school superintendant Sharon Haggan; and organist Thomasena Hall.

Rev Nelson thanked Sharon for all her work with the Sunday school and children taking part in the service.