Reflection from Father Paul Tully, Roman Catholic Chaplain.
As winter draws in, with darker mornings and earlier nights, the Christmas season offers moments of warmth, light and connection. Through colourful lights, decorations, shared meals and time with loved ones, communities come together to lift spirits and find comfort during the coldest months of the year.
In his Christmas reflection, Father Paul Tully, Roman Catholic Chaplain with County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT), speaks of a deeper light that shines throughout the season:
“In the cold of winter, when the mornings are dark and night comes early, we bring warmth and cheer into our lives with colourful lights and decorations; we banish the darkness by celebrating family and friends with food, drink and gifts. This season also reminds us of that Light which shines in all our darknesses, giving direction and hope; a Light the darkness cannot grasp or extinguish.”
Father Paul reflects on the message of hope found at the heart of Christmas, drawing on the words of the prophet Isaiah:
“For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”(Isaiah 9:6)
The Trust’s Chaplaincy Service continues to offer spiritual, pastoral and emotional support to patients, visitors and staff of all faiths and none throughout the festive period. A number of Christmas services and events will take place across our hospitals, supported by the Chaplaincy team.
Christmas Chaplaincy Events
Darlington Memorial Hospital
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Ward-based Christmas Carols Tuesday 23 December | 3:00pm – 4:30pm
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Christmas Day Service Thursday 25 December | 11:00am Hospital Chapel
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Bedside Holy Communions By arrangement
University Hospital of North Durham
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Christmas Day Service Thursday 25 December | 10:30am Hospital Chapel
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Bedside Holy Communions By arrangement
The Chaplaincy Service remains available throughout Christmas to provide care, comfort and support at what can be a challenging time of year.
Everyone is welcome to attend services or request chaplaincy support during their hospital stay.
