FLAMES may have engulfed the St Barnabas Chapel earlier this year, but nothing will extinguish the Christmas spirit of the Anglican Diocese of Bathurst.
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Almost a year after the chapel was declared unusable following a devastating fire, the members of the beloved church will reconvene on the grounds to mark Christmas with their annual service.
Up until now, they have been sharing the St Joseph's Chapel, which has allowed them to continue to hold two weekly worship services.
As expected, the sisters of St Joseph's will require their chapel on Christmas Eve for their own service, and Reverend James Hodson said this was a key reason that has led to the Anglican Diocese holding their service out the front of the St Barnabas Chapel this year.
However, he also said it is important the community sees them overcome the tragedy of the fire.
"I think it is important the people of South Bathurst see we are still functioning," Mr Hodson said.
The church hopes it won't be long before they can return to their chapel on a permanent basis.
"We are in discussions with the an architect and we hope to begin building in the next year," Mr Hodson explained.
As it stands, the shell of the church will need to be rebuilt and the interior will be remodelled.
On December 24 there will be two services held.
A children's service will begin at 5:30pm, where families can pray, sing carols, and watch children re-enact the nativity scene. Later in the evening will be the more traditional adult service at 11pm.
Reverend Hodson encourages the Bathurst community to join them in the car park for their special Christmas Eve services.
"We would love to see the community come along if they wish," he said.