A festive gift from the pandemic is returning to St George’s Anglican Church at Gate Pā this Sunday afternoon – a relaxed outdoor carol-singing service.

“One of the gifts of Covid-19 was having to take our carol service outside in 2021,” says Reverend John Hebenton.

“[From this] We discovered the joy of gathering on the back lawn between the church and the Gate Pā Domain and offering this family-friendly event in a much more relaxed way.”

As such – St George’s ‘Carols on the Lawn’ afternoon is happening this Sunday, December 17, at 4pm.

“With so many of the big Christmas events being in Tauranga town, we welcome everyone from our community and beyond to this relaxed occasion sitting under the old oak tree,” says John.

“This year will be a celebration of carols ancient and modern, from Aotearoa and far away.

“Our Christmas choir has been rehearsing some special carols for a few weeks under the careful direction of Bonnie Hebenton. And there will be lots of old favourites for everyone to sing.”

Hosting the carol service on St George’s lawn has become very popular. Photo: supplied.

With a limited amount of seating provided, families are welcome to bring their own blankets and chairs to enjoy the event.

“After the singing has finished a free delicious supper will be served for all. Stay and have a chat, and a Christmas mince pie,” says John. “If wet, we will move inside and use our beautiful church.”

St George’s ‘Carols on the Lawn’ is at 4pm, Sunday, December 17, at 1 Church St, Gate Pa, Tauranga.

For more information, see: https://www.stgeorgesgatepa.com