Christingle

Christingle services are becoming increasingly popular in churches across Scotland. The symbolism of the Christingle is an excellent way of communicating and celebrating the true meaning of Christmas: an orange (representing the world), a candle (= Jesus Christ, Light of the World), a red ribbon (the blood of Christ) and dried fruits/sweets (the fruits of the earth and the four seasons).

The Children’s Society has produced a suite of resources adapting this for the curriculum:

• Guide for Schools
• Assembly Pack (PowerPoint + full script)
• A range of Arts, Crafts and Games for classroom use

These can be found at: Planning Your Christingle Celebration | The Children’s Society (childrenssociety.org.uk)

As well as emphasising the true meaning of Christmas, the PowerPoint explores ideas and values around the family, and highlights the work of the Children’s Society. Schools are encouraged to link their Christmas activities with raising funds for this charity, although this is entirely optional.

While produced in England, the assembly material works equally well in a Scottish context. The classroom resources have no specific links to Curriculum for Excellence Es & Os, but again can fit readily into the Scottish context.

All resources are downloadable and free.