St Mungo's Opening doors for homeless people

Resounding success of St Mungo's 2009 Carol Service

Royalty, clients, celebrities, donors and staff came together for a magical evening of carol singing, poetry reading and socialising. The event was a sell out this year, and raised over £11,000.

Guest of honour, and newly appointed St Mungo's patron, HRH Duke of Kent and actress Phyllidia Law, were joined by more than 300 guests for our 40th anniversary Christmas Carol Service at St Brides Church, Fleet Street.

St Brides, known as 'The Printers' Church,' was filled with the heavenly sounds of traditional Christmas carols, sung by St Brides Church Choir, and contemporary songs sung by homeless choir, Cardboard Citizens (pictured).

Phyllidia Law, read the poem 'Christmas' by former poet Laureate John Betjeman. About St Mungo's she said:

"As a wandering Celt from Glasgow, I am humbled to discover that St Mungo's is not just a familiar name but an organisation with a huge heart."

Other readings included 'Words of Thanks' a rap style poem, written and performed by St Mungo's client Kevin Lewis (pictured with St Mungo's Chair, Wendy Morris and HRH Duke of Kent) and poems written by St Mungo's clients.

The service was followed by a champagne reception which was held in the church crypt.

"My wife and I would just like to let you and all your colleagues know how much we enjoyed the carol service. We would like you all, including the clients who were brave enough to participate so very well, to know that we are grateful to you all for your efforts and for giving us so much pleasure." St Mungo's supporter

St Mungo's would like to thank everyone involved in making this event a great success!