SVP 1833 News & Events
Cambridge Carollers
Christmas is a time for giving and it is said the Lord loves a cheerful giver. Members of Cambridge University SVP 1833 demonstrated perseverance and good humour as they overcame several obstacles in their plans to bring the true message of Christmas to the people of Cambridge by carol-singing in the city. The purpose was two-fold – to announce the Christmas story and to raise funds for their SVP activities. After lengthy negotiations they obtained a permit from the City Council, special sealed boxes and the services of an accountant to check the money donated. They decided against the simpler option of holding a Carol Service in the church hall, preferring to meet with passers-by in the street, for whom this might be their only experience of the real Christmas message “the reason for the season.” With a poster listing the Conference’s activities the “Caring Carollers” were joined by local parish Conference members. Two heavy rain showers during the afternoon did not deter the carollers or the passers-by 
who stopped to listen and the group were heartened to see so many people enjoying themselves.
Afterwards, in true Vincentian style, the carollers gathered in the chaplaincy to share mince pies and mulled wine.
The event raised nearly £200 which will enable the members to maintain and increase their work – leading their own soup run, helping at Jimmy’s night shelter, making greetings cards for people held in a detention centre and organising outings for residents in a care-home.