Chrismas at Aylesford

The feast of Christmas began with Evenning Prayer of the Church on Friday evening. Then the community and our guests sat down for our first feast - a Portugese Christmas Eve supper, prepared by Br Tiago. The meal was of salt cod, potatoes and cabbage. Some of the community then celebrated Mass for Christmas at the local prison and convent.

A large number of people braved the cold and the ice for Midnight Mass celebrated by our prior, Fr Brendan. Mince pies then were served to all comers in the Pilgrims Hall.

Christmas morning heralded another international themed feasting. Br Torsten prepared a German breakfast of cold meats and breads. Delicious and abundant. Fr Kevin went to help with Mass in Walworth, Fr David Fox to Faversham and all gathered again in time for our community Christmas Dinner prepared by Fr Damian. The community meal was blessed with much laughter and fun. Many hands helped everything run smoothly. Many visitors came to see the crib and enjoy the peace of the priory during the afternoon.

During the week some of the friars will be having a break, others will have family and friends come to spend some time with us. Whatever you are doing in these days, know of our prayer for you and rest well if at all possible