A rousing live event filled with jubilant, festive music led by the Central Band of the Royal Air Force, the concert followed a set order of service that opened with the celebratory “Ding Dong Merrily on High”. During proceedings, the congregation was addressed by a SSAFA caseworker who explored in detail her experiences working for the military charity, including the inspirational story of one of the many army veterans she had helped. The veteran had been homeless and suffered with addiction, but is now housed, healthy and clean, with a new career as an artist. His latest piece, done in collaboration with US veterans, is now on display at the Seattle Opera House.
“It was an honour for L3Harris to support this event,” said Ian Menzies, Vice President and General Manager for L3Harris Intelligence and Cyber International, who attended the service alongside Director Strategy, Business Development and Sales, Fred Hargreaves OBE. “The evening was hugely enjoyable and highly successful, not only in raising critical funds for the organisation but awareness of the incredible work that SSAFA does for military personnel and their families.”
The Carol Service raised a staggering £240,000, a significant sum that will enable SSAFA’s dedicated welfare advisors and volunteers to help a lot more beneficiaries in the coming year with personalised support. This included the sponsorship of 40 candles decorated with the SSAFA Carol Concert insignia which lined and illuminated the Chapel windows for the duration of the concert.
“I really felt quite emotional!” expressed Lady Walmsley, Chair of the SSAFA Carol Concert Committee. “Being able to host a live event of this kind given the current climate was an absolute pleasure, invoking a powerful sense of community in such difficult times. People sang heartily and I enjoyed the evening immensely. I am so thrilled that L3Harris was able to sponsor us.”
The Carol Service will be broadcast via radio by BFBS on Christmas Eve (6pm U.K., 1pm EST), and plans are already in place for next year’s event on Wednesday 7 December 2022.