Christmas Recital & Candlelight Service
Monday, December 24, 2018
6:30 pm
On Christmas Eve in the Sanctuary, we will continue our annual tradition of the gentle, contemplative service known as the “Festival of Lessons and Carols.” This service combines readings from scripture with choral anthems, congregational carols and an appearance by the Holy Family. This year, the Chancel Choir will present three anthems: an arrangement of Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming by Stephen Chatman, a lovely, gentle carol by John Rutter entitled Christmas Night, and Dan Forrest’s stirring setting of See Amid the Winter’s Snow.
It is a time to set aside the hectic pace of our lives during this busy season, and meditate on the true meaning of Christmas. Again continuing an annual tradition, the service concludes with the congregational singing of Silent Night, as each person raises his or her candle to symbolize the light of Christ spreading throughout the world.
The service begins at 6:30 p.m. with the Christmas Recital, in which the talented musicians of our congregation present music celebrating Christmas and the Christ Child. We are so blessed by the musical talent in our church—come let them bless you with their gifts during this holy season! The Candlelight Lessons and Carols will follow at 7:00 p.m. This popular service always fills the Sanctuary, so be sure to arrive early to begin celebrating the birth of Jesus!