The Blessing of The Crib

The annual service of the Blessing of the Crib in Glasgow’s George Square took place on 6 December and clearly someone had been praying about the weather as, despite forecasts, it stayed dry until the service ended. There was a good crowd present, taking part and making it a family event.

The Lord Provost, Cllr. Eva Bollander, was joined by representatives of Glasgow Churches Together for the service, and this year the music was led by St Mungo’s Primary School choir and the Alba Brass. In her welcome to the crowd present, the Lord Provost reflected that Christmas is a special time of year, particularly for children, and it was wonderful to come together for the ecumenical service which allows people to share in the true meaning of Christmas.

Alba Brass playing for the service

The service was short, simple and warm service, with some well loved carols, the Christmas narrative from the Gospel of St. Luke read by Archbishop Tartaglia, the Blessing of the Crib led by Rev. Ian Galloway, Moderator of Glasgow Presbytery, and intercessions read by various church representatives (for the churches, the city, its civic leaders and its citizens and for peace for people throughout the world).

It ended with a rousing rendition of “We wish you a Merry Christmas” after which there was time for photographs, some thank-you gifts for the children and some moments of quiet reflection in front of the crib itself.