Given the situation in Gaza and Israel, the annual University Carol Service deliberately focused on the plight of the people in that region and those affected beyond.
This included taking a collection for ASSIST Sheffield; a local charity that works with people who are seeking sanctuary and who have been refused asylum. Over £250 was raised via a combination of cash and online giving.
It also meant switching Bible readings from those in Luke’s Gospel to Matthew’s Gospel. Luke, after Jesus’ birth, tells of shepherds visiting. Matthew tells of the wise men’s visit and their encounter with King Herod, which results in the purge of boys in Bethlehem aged two and under as Herod tries to eliminate Jesus.
University Coordinating Chaplain Jeremy Clines reflected on the latter story in his address; drawing comparisons with current world events yet explaining how we can still find hope.
On a brighter note the University Chamber Choir beautifully led the singing, including with a rousing rendition of Ding Dong Merrily on High.
Given the wider context though, it was fitting that our Muslim Chaplain Ameena Blake introduced the service and explained the vital local work that ASSIST performs. Please support it if you can.