Our little church does not have a lot of traditions, but it does have a few. And one of my very favorites is the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. We enjoy it so much that we make it a point to attend every year.
It’s a simple service, held at night…and as the name implies, the only lighting is an array of candles spread throughout the sanctuary. Talking in the building is not allowed during this service. It begins promptly at 6:00 and ends at 7:00.
Handel’s Messiah is played, and between the various sections, our pastor reads scripture pertaining to the birth of Christ. Near the end we take communion together. The service culminates in the Halleluiah Chorus, and then we are asked to quietly leave.
Christmas is a busy time of year, with lots of shopping and cooking and wrapping presents and family visits and so much more. The Candlelight Service is an oasis of calm during this most festive time of year. It allows us to center ourselves and focus on Christ. Our pastor quiets us to remember what…and who…we are celebrating.
How about you? Does your church have traditions that you have come to know and love? Share your favorite at Lifting Her Voice, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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