The Festive Season Begins

The beginning of Christmas festivities at Shawnigan was heralded this weekend with the first special events of the season, the annual Children’s Chapel and the Craft Fair.

Reverend James Holland led the chapel proceedings, sharing with the congregation that the Children’s Chapel is “about having fun, celebrating the children that we have living with us in this community and being grateful for the energy, joy and spontaneity that they bring.”

In addition to a lighthearted visit from the Reverend’s puppet, Lambchop, and a reading of “The Book with No Pictures” by Kelsey McDaniel, this chapel also offered the community a chance to reflect on the importance of creating an environment that’s safe and appropriate for Shawnigan’s youngest members.

Rev. Holland wrapped up the service with a special blessing: “Bless these children, bless each one; fill their lives with play and fun. Make them grow big and make them grow strong. Teach them to know right from wrong. Keep them safe and make them good, and help them feel loved in this, our neighbourhood.”

For the second year in a row, the Jim and Kathryn Shaw Library played host to a craft fair, with stalls displaying artisan wares created by Shawnigan staff members and artists from the local community. Shoppers were able to browse through items ranging from winter wreathes and festive foliage displays to jewelry, knitwear, leather work and needlework while sustaining their energy levels with cookies and hot apple cider.

The special events continue from now until the Christmas holidays, with the community looking forward to Health & Wellness Day on Friday, SnowFest on Saturday, International Week starting on Dec. 15 and the Christmas Dinner and Chapel Service on Dec. 19.