St. Mark’s Church in Portadown has once again transform into a magical Christmas grotto for the second consecutive year. This enchanting experience has been made possible through many hours of hard work, turning the iconic town centre Church into a festive wonderland, complete with Santa’s grotto nestled high up in the tower.
Families are invited to enter through the Church Street side door, where they are greeted by a beautifully decorated porch adorned with twinkling festive lights. Upon entering the church, visitors will find a registration desk marking the beginning of the delightful Candy Cane Lane trail.
As families venture through the archway into the main body of the church, the Candy Cane Lane Trail continues to unfold. Children can take a moment to engage in festive fun by coloring in Christmas-themed pictures and writing heartfelt letters to Santa. Following the trail, they will meander down the main aisle, guided by the whimsical decorations, until they reach the stunning archway of lights and stars.
Reverend William Orr said; “The whole purpose behind the grotto is to give parents and children a positive experience of being in a church that is iconic in the middle of Portadown town centre, and to remind everyone of why the church exists: to serve Christ and His Kingdom, to serve the people where Christ has placed His church, and to offer this building as a safe place for the community to gather and encounter the Living God”.
The journey leads families through the archway into the main porch and up a secret spiral staircase, illuminated by starlight, to Santa’s grotto in the tower. Here, children can deliver their letters directly to Santa and receive a special storybook in return. After their magical encounter, they will descend the main staircase back to the porch, where each child is rewarded with a chocolate coin and a candy cane to sweeten their visit.
The Santa Grotto in the Tower heralds the end of renovation works at St. Mark’s Church in Portadown which commenced in September, focusing on essential plaster repairs to preserve the historic integrity of this beloved landmark. St. Mark’s Church was constructed in 1826 using blackstone with sandstone dressings, showcasing a stunning cruciform layout that highlights its architectural significance.
The renovations aimed to address the wear and tear that has accumulated over the years, ensuring that the Church remains a safe and welcoming space for the community. Skilled craftsmen meticulously worked to restore the plasterwork, which is crucial for maintaining the Church’s aesthetic appeal and structural stability.
St. Mark’s Church holds a special place in the hearts of many, serving as a vital community hub for worship and gatherings. The renovation project not only enhances the Church’s physical appearance but also reinforces its role as a historical and cultural landmark in Portadown.
This year’s Christmas grotto at St. Mark’s Church promises to be a memorable experience for families, filled with joy, creativity, and the spirit of giving. Don’t miss the chance to create lasting memories in this festive haven right in the heart of Portadown.