Salvation Army stages ‘uplifting’ Christmas concert in Dublin

The Salvation Army community in Dublin gathered for a special Christmas concert at Dublin’s Pepper Canister Church, with hope as its central theme.

Staff and residents of the church and charity’s six residential Lifehouses in the capital shared a memorable evening of song during its ‘Chorus of Hope’.

Major Jonathon Rouffet compered the concert and between performances, retold the story of Christmas.

Last Friday (5th) evening’s show was co-ordinated by musical director Kieran Gallagher, who had workshopped the show onsite with the Salvation Army individual and family centres throughout November.

“The highlight of the concert was the involvement of the children from our family hubs, who had been practising their carols and actions and came together for a fun-filled performance,” said Erene Williamson, the Salvation Army’s Homeless Services Ireland lead.

“While the pressure and strain of homelessness is a reality for our residents, this was one night where they could all come together and enjoy an uplifting concert.

“Santa Claus made a surprise visit during the children’s performance and danced down the aisle with our family hub chaplain Heather Coles.

“We also had the Lurgan Salvation Army Brass Band accompany all performances and the Dublin City Salvation Army Church (Corps) choir sang a wonderful set led by our church pastor, Amanda Sewell.”

One of the biggest providers of homeless accommodation in the capital, The Salvation Army provides 250,000 bed nights per year in its individual and family homeless centres across Dublin.