The churches of Cranleigh invite everyone in the village to spread a little joy this Christmas by making stars to display in their windows until early in the New Year.
We hope that seeing these stars will bring light, and give people hope at the end of a dark year. For many people, Christmas will look a little different this year. It will be hard for friends and families to meet up, and some of us may even find ourselves in isolation or quarantine during a season which usually brings people together. Which is why the churches of Cranleigh wanted to try and spread a little joy throughout the village and remind people they are not alone.
From Advent Sunday on 29th November, join in brightening every street by making a star to display in your window. It can be as big or small as you like, and you can use anything you have handy: paints, crayons, lights, glitter, the limit is your imagination! The symbol of a star has been chosen because it reminds us of the star the wise men followed to find the Christ child who came to bring joy to the world. But it’s also a symbol that holds meaning for people of other faiths and none. Stars can represent light (after all the sun is a star) hopes, dreams, wishes, things we all need more than ever this year. It is hoped that seeing these stars around the village will bring light and hope to all at the end of a dark year.
On a practical note, a star has been chosen because many people will already have one in their Christmas decorations and if not, one can be made for little or no cost which is even more vital than usual at the moment, so enabling everyone to take part. It would be wonderful if shops and other businesses in Cranleigh would join in by displaying stars in their windows and if they wish, a supply of a small downloadable poster can be provided saying, “We are supporting Cranleigh Shines”.
In these difficult times, we need to stand together as a village and this idea is designed to be completely inclusive. You can find out more on the Cranleigh Shines Facebook Page at: facebook.com/CranleighShines
