"But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. " - Philippians 3:20-21
With 23 more days until Christmas, I figure I'd talk to you guys about Christmas Eves at my previous church, St. Paul Lutheran - Catonsville and my current church Catonsville UMC. This isn't a criticism blog, this is how some churches are different than others.
Every Wednesday prior to Christmas eve was an Advent soup supper at St. Paul... we were always involved in that and always went to the services that followed. Typically, you grab yourself about 2 or 3 bowls of soup, and from a certain period of time (For about 25-30 minutes) they will take hymn requests in the sanctuary until 7:30.
My family went to St. Paul for a long time and my personal favorite service was going to the Christmas Eve service. There were 2 services, there was a 7:30pm family service where they typically got the kids got involved and 10:45pm, which was the candlelight service (that if I am not mistaken did have communion involved). Both services were extremely festive, sometimes my grandparents would even join us. The garments and vestments were white and blue and all the candles were lit. The 7:30pm service would always feature the children's choir and 10:45 would feature the "big choir."
Now between services, they would have an "intermission" with refreshments, cookies, and treats, we'd sing happy birthday to Jesus and the congregation would laugh, greet visitors, talk, and have a good old time. By 10:20-30pm, everyone would start making their way up for service 2 which was the "grand" service of them all. Many glorious hymns would be sung and readings would be performed. Of course, there'd be a sermon and Pastor Morthole, would actually make it a funny sermon because it was a time to be happy and joyful. Pastor Stephen would do the same thing.
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While Catonsville UMC used just about the same amount of glitz and glamour that St. Paul brought to the table in terms of services. Catonsville UMC didn't have soup suppers (which is quite alright...) and a party in between. But you know what, Christmas eve for them brings THREE services.
5:30pm is typically for the children and parents.
7:30pm is the contemporary service. Which from what I understand is the longest service (lasts nearly 90 minutes)
10:45pm is what I like to call the "Super Bowl" service. The church is full, the choir sings five songs, and Pastor Mark talks of a humorous sermon typically something about a gift.
The vestments are gold and the atmosphere is festive with lights turned down. Everyone's given a candle for the candlelight portion of the service.
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It doesn't matter what church you go to for a candlelight service. It's a beautiful service nonetheless, it's a festive atmosphere, and always wonderful to be apart of.
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