Published Thursday, 15 December 2011
Just months ago there were violent scenes in the troubled north Belfast district where nights of rioting followed a Twelfth of July parade past the shop-fronts.
But on Thursday evening, local community leaders stood shoulder to shoulder and declared their hope for a better future.
Loyalist community worker Winston Irvine said: "Tonight is a positive form of engagement for an area which has seen so much destruction over the years.
"This represents a very positive step forward."
Former Holy Cross headmistress Anne Taney said: "I think it's very important that we are getting together at Christmas.
"It is a time for goodwill and kindness and forgiveness and all the good things we can hope for in the future."
The event was organised by local churches and took place outside the Ardoyne ambulance station.
Members from all the surrounding communities joined in the festivities, which painted a different image of an area plagued by trouble.
Father Gary Donegan of Holy Cross said: "It has been a fantastic occasion and to see the crowd that has gathered together.
"Initially we were saying it would be a success if a dozen people come out but to see everyone come together is lovely."
Ballysillan Presbyterian's Rev Norman Hamilton said: "I have been here 23 years and it's just lovely to be standing with a good news story at the Ardoyne roundabout.
"It's lovely to do it in this area which is so famous for what happens at other times of the year."
Amid the ongoing parade tensions in Ardoyne, many local people are hoping Thursday night's event can herald a more peaceful future.