When a full Mass was held just after the orthodox Christmas at St Denys, the Ethiopian diaspora in Southampton and Portsmouth came together, transformed the building and spent five hours celebrating the birth of the Saviour.  The opportunity to be together in this way brought tears of joy, and was deeply moving for those of us who were able to share in such a special occasion.

Andrew M, our Mission Link wrote, 'Our lives can be enriched by sharing in less familiar forms of worship.  There is often excitement about new “expressions” but traditional worship can be no less exciting.  The Ethiopian Orthodox Church dates back to the 4th century and is rich in tradition and symbolism.'

The evening before the Mass a temporary screen was constructed and decorated.

The service began just after 6 o clock in the morning, and worshippers were greeted and blessed by their priest, who had travelled from London for the service. 

It was really special for the worshipping communities from Portsmouth and Southampton to be able to come together for the Mass, and some of the children got involved in the service.

After the service, there was a feast of traditional Ethiopian food, and some of us from St Denys joined in the feasting and conversation.