St Mark’s, Ballymacash, this year celebrates 50 years in its current church building. 

The foundation stone was laid in 1974, and the church opened for worship in 1975. 

The main event in the parish’s 50^th anniversary commemorations will be a Christmas Tree Festival running from Friday November 29 – Sunday December 1.

Opening hours will be:  Friday: 2-5pm; Saturday: 10am-4pm; Sunday: 2-5pm.

The theme of the festival is ‘Love came down at Christmas.’

The trees will be laid out in a ‘trail’ from the church door, with a ‘one way system’ through the church and in the main hall.   A programme and signage will provide information about each of the trees.

The Canon Jones Hall will be set up for teas and coffees and seasonal refreshments.

There will also be a mini Christmas tree competition for under 18s.  Trees can be made from any material and must be no taller than 60cm. Entries will be displayed at the Festival.

There will be no admission charge for the Festival, but there will be the opportunity to make and donation and there will be a charge for those who want to have tea and coffee afterwards.

All money raised will go towards parish funds.

The rector, the Rev Lynne Gibson, said: “The trees have been sponsored by parish groups, local schools and community groups and businesses.  Additionally, there will be a Prayer Tree at the entrance to the church, trees for Christmas past and Christmas present, and trees which remember those baptized in St Mark’s and our loved ones who are no longer with us.

“During the three days of the Festival, we will have a variety of musicians performing in the church, including our church organists and music group, and choirs from our local schools [Ballymacash PS will formally open the festival]. You can enjoy the music as you wander round the trail or sit quietly in the church and listen.”