Dear People of Bethlehem,
Merry Christmas! It is hard to believe that the day we celebrate the light of the world entering into our physical world is here! We look forward to having you join us for worship tonight at 5pm.
As always, our Christmas Eve service here at Bethlehem will include Holy Communion and Candle lighting. In addition to regular candles, last year we added the option of battery-operated candles for those who may find it a better option.
As a part of the service this year we also plan to do something a little different from years past. (Fire ban permitting) We plan to process out of the church after lighting our candles and singing Silent Night. We will head out to the courtyard and join together around a bonfire to sign two more carols followed by Joy to the World. We felt that it would be a meaningful ending to our service by ending it out in the world where Christ sends us.
I wanted to share this with you so that you can plan accordingly. The temperature will be about 70 degrees at that time. You are also welcome to remain in the sanctuary if for any reason you do not want, or are not able, to join us outside. I will keep my microphone on so that anyone in the church can hear the final Christmas words tonight.
I know that we all have various plans for Christmas Eve and Day, so if I do not see you tonight, I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas! It has been a joy serving you as your pastor during this last year.
May the light of Christ shine brightly in your hearts and homes this Christmas season and beyond.
Christmas Blessings,
Pastor Brian Weinberger
