Nelson Community United Church of Christ held a Christmas Eve service at 7p.m. last Tuesday. Pastors for the church are Joyce and Ivan Dean. Musicians for the evening were Beth Dolnicek and Mary Statz. Delighting everyone on Christmas Eve, was the organized worship service.
Starting the service were greetings, announcements and a special time for the children of the congregation. Pastor Joyce taught the children about the little baby Jesus. She explained to the children that Jesus is the first gift of Christmas, and how He came to save us all. Pastor Joyce spoke to the congregation about preparing to hear God's word, and a call to worship. Then The parishioners sang O Come All Ye Faithfull.
Scripture John 1:1-5 was read. Then the assembly listened to a teaching on the service of the nativity. The assembly sang O Come, O Come Emanuel. Mary and Joseph's story was the topic of the next sermon, listening to their plight touched everyone's heart. What Child Is This was sung.
The story of Joseph and Mary in Bethlehem was told, followed by the singing of O Little Town of Bethlehem. People listened to Pastor Joyce speak about the birth of Jesus, and this topic was topped off with a duet by Craig McMahon and Randy Koehler singing Mary Did You Know? Pastor Ivan spoke of the prophecy fulfilled, and then read Isaiah 9:2-7. Joy To The World was sung after his teachings.
The shepherds' story was followed by the singing of Hark the Herald Angels Sing. People listened to Pastor Joyce speak about a night of hope, a Holy night. O Holy Night was sung by all.
An invitation was made by Pastor Joyce, for all to join in The Lord's Supper. This sacred time was filled with the lighting of the candles, praise and thanksgiving. Prayer and dedication followed along with the singing of Silent Night, Holy Night.
Closing the service with songs, were the Benediction Singers; Carson Wehrmen, Layla Fox, Piper Muir, Katherine Hodge, Ansley Wehrmen, Drake Fox, Tatum Lynch, Laynie Muir and McKenna Hodge. The congregation followed by everyone joining in singing Joy to the World.
When the service was complete, people stayed and excitement filled the air. The presence of the Lord filled everyone's hearts to the brim.
Reader Comments(0)