Church of England unveils its first Christmas advert

The Church of England has launched its first national film advert for Christmas.

While John Lewis recruited Elton John for its Christmas campaign and Burberry’s advert stars Naomi Campbell and Matt Smith, the Church of England’s features real parishioners.

The 90-second clip shows church-goers in Hertfordshire taking part in Christmas preparations at local churches.

The advert features a new version of the carol O Little Town of Bethlehem, arranged by composer Will Todd.

The single was recorded by St Martin’s Voices, a choir from St-Martin-in-the-Fields church in central London, and will receive its radio premiere next Sunday on Aled Jones’s show on Classic FM.

Adrian Harris, head of digital for the church, said: “The advert we’ve produced isn’t about buying costly presents, but instead celebrating the ultimate gift – the birth of Jesus Christ.

“Our Follow the Star campaign will see thousands of churches up and down the country displaying stars as a sign of welcome and millions of people will follow the star to gather in churches this Christmas.”

On Friday, Canterbury and Durham cathedrals will have huge stars projected onto them, while The Great British Bake Off contestant Martha Collison has prepared a special star-themed recipe in collaboration with school children.