ALL THINGS CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Christmas Eve. Don't Miss It!
The calendar shows that the corporate church will have 52 weeks to connect with families and share Jesus during the year. Attendance shows us that Christmas Eve, Easter and Mother's Day are the three most attended services of the year. On Christmas Eve, every seat in the sanctuary becomes occupied with members of the congregation, folks from the community and first time visitors.
Christmas Eve; a unique worship opportunity for families. A unique opportunity for those who are trying to find their way back to church. A unique opportunity for the non believer looking for something to believe in!
Christmas Eve! We need it! Here is why!
Light and Dark!
There is something calming and magical about being in the church at night. Most often we worship during the day. On Christmas Eve the trumpets sound, the Processional Cross makes its way to the chancel , we sing . The candles of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love are lighted. The Christ candle, the tallest candle is lighted .
Joy to the World , The Lord Has Come ! Happy Birthday Jesus!
People. Lots of people!
Here is the church, here is the steeple open the doors and see all of the people. Yes, this fun kids finger poem holds true on Christmas Eve for sure. The phrase " big church" on Christmas Eve means that every pew is filled with " all of the people!" What a joy it is to be part of something really big! Bigger than all of the gifts under the tree. Bigger than the crowd at the mall, Walmart, and Target and bigger than Santa.
The Story
Luke 2 ...is the story. Even if you are in the pew for only Christmas Eve, you know the story. The good news that brings great joy to all people! " Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you!" Luke 2 " 11. As the scripture is read you probably can recite it silently.
Singing
There is nothing better, than singing hymns accompanied with organ, bells and trumpet. Folks sing and are not self conscious of being heard. And of course the singing of Silent Night in the candle light is the icing on the Christmas Eve worship birthday cake!
Singing, the multi vitamins for the soul.
Family Traditions
Worshiping on Christmas Eve as a family creates over the years a treasure chest of memories. Come , Now Is the Time to Worship! Come as you are. Be in community. Be in fellowship. The best gift you can give yourself and your children is the gift of Jesus. It is free! Santa and Rudolf can be part of the night for sure, but when we hold on to the truths of John 3:16 For God so loved us..that he gave to us.... Jesus a real baby boy, a boy that became a man, a man who died for us, a man who rose for us and ascended into heaven and makes a place for us in heaven. We find hope for tomorrow!
We need Christmas Eve. Don't miss it!
Merry Christmas
Belinda Bost, Children's Minister
Concordia Lutheran Church, LCMS
Conover , NC
