Christmas
Light in the darkness
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5"
This Christmas, we’re celebrating Light in the Darkness — the hope that shines through even the hardest seasons of life. In a world that often feels uncertain or weary, the story of Jesus reminds us that God’s light still breaks through, bringing joy, peace, and life.
Join us throughout December for our Christmas gatherings and carol services as we share in the wonder of this good news together.
Whether you’re exploring faith, returning to church, or simply looking for a place to belong — you’re invited to experience the light that changes everything.
Events
-
Christmas Series Launch & Kids Christmas Parties
Join us in one of our physical communities or online. See community details below:Musselburgh
The Hollies Day Centre
183 High St, EH21 7DE
10amWest
The Diadem
537-539 Gorgie Road, EH11 3AR
10:15amNorth
Edinburgh College (Granton Campus)
350 W Granton Rd, EH5 1QE
11amLeith
Norton Park Conference Centre
57 Albion Road, EH7 5QY
11amSouth
The Glencorse Centre
4 Firth Road, EH26 0QZ
6pmCity Evening (No kids’ Christmas Party at our City Evening community)
The Diadem
537-539 Gorgie Road, EH11 3AR
5pmOnline
www.cityonahill.org.uk/watch
10:30amThe Children’s Christmas Party will take place during our Church Gathering.
At the start of the service, please stay with your child(ren) as we enjoy some carols and songs together before the children head out to their party.
Adults are warmly invited to remain for the rest of the service while the children celebrate, and then collect them once the party finishes.
-
Join us for an evening of carols as we celebrate the Light in the Darkness — the hope, joy, and peace Jesus brings into our world. Come sing your favourite Christmas songs, reflect on the beauty of the season, and share in a moment of light with our church family.
Times: 4pm & 7pm
Location: 537-539 Gorgie Rd
EH11 3AR -
Our Family Gatherings are designed for the whole family, offering moments of reflection, fun, connection, and joy.
At our family gathering this year, we are going to have a Nativity play. It’s a Nativity play with a difference — because you are the cast!”
All ages are welcome, so come dressed in your Nativity costume — or borrow one when you arrive. It’s going to be a fun, family-filled celebration of Christmas!”
Join us in one of our communities for the play. See community detail below:
Musselburgh
The Hollies Day Centre
183 High St, EH21 7DE
10amWest
The Diadem
537-539 Gorgie Road, EH11 3AR
10:15amNorth (Christmas Brunch only - no nativity)
Ferrywell Youth Project
31-33 Pennywell Road, EH4 4PJ
11amLeith
Norton Park Conference Centre
57 Albion Road, EH7 5QY
11amSouth (No Nativity )
The Glencorse Centre
4 Firth Road, EH26 0QZ
2pmWe continue our Light in the Darkness preaching series online cityonahill.org.uk/watch at 10:30am
-
Come and celebrate Christmas with us in a joyful Nativity Show for all ages!
Whether you’re joining with family, friends, or on your own, everyone is invited to take part as we step into the Christmas story together.
All ages are welcome — come and share in the wonder of the season with our community!
Time: 5pm
Location: 537-539 Gorgie Road, EH11 3AR
-
Celebrate the joy of Christmas morning with our church family! Join us for a special Christmas Day breakfast filled with fellowship, reflection, and community on this wonderful day at 10am.
Sign up here
-
-
Join us for an unforgettable evening of soul-lifting worship, joyful celebration, and inspiring music as we welcome 2026 together!
Programme for the Evening:
Family-friendly ceilidh – 7:00–9:00pm
Bring-your-own supper – 9:00–10:00pm (eat together as a community)
Crossover service – 10:00pm to midnight, as we worship, pray, and step into the New Year
This New Year’s Eve, City on a Hill invites you to our annual celebration — a time to reflect on the eternal hope and victory we have in Jesus, and to joyfully usher in the blessings of the year ahead.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
-
Join us in our six physical communities or online cityonahill.org.uk/watch as we launch our new series, 'Live wise.'
For service times and locations, visit our Communities overview page
Buy a Bed
Supporting Bethany Christian Trust This Christmas
This Christmas, we’re partnering with Bethany Christian Trust to support their Buy a Bed campaign.
The campaign helps fund the Bethany Welcome Centre, which provides emergency accommodation, 24/7 care, daily meals, and support for those facing homelessness.
A £25 Buy a Bed gift card gives someone access to food, warmth, and personalised support to help them move toward stable accommodation through the Rapid Re-accommodation Welcome Centre.
Your gift could mean the difference between someone sleeping rough and having a safe place to stay this winter.
Thank you for your generosity and compassion.
