Beginning with the lighting of the first candle of the Advent wreath the last weekend of November and the fifth candle at the Candle and Carol service Christmas Eve, the Kirk was filled with the spirit of love and fellowship as the birth of Jesus Christ was celebrated.

The sanctuary was beautifully decorated with greenery and poinsettia. A 17-piece hand-painted nativity scene was admired by everyone as they entered the narthex. Members plucked names from the Giving Tree so children at local charities would receive nice gifts for Christmas.

Hand bells rang out and joyful voices filled the sanctuary December 14 as the Kirk Choir presented its Christmas cantata, “A Festival of Carols.” The musical included over 20 carols, new and old, in unique arrangements with brilliant orchestrations. Nine scripture lessons were interspersed among the choral numbers and solos.

A lovely reception, hosted by the Kirk Fellowship and the Reception committees was served afterward in Hoffius Hall. Everyone was delighted to welcome Sam Pope, former associate pastor, and his wife, Cora Jane, and former church office administrator, Judy Carroll, and her husband Jerry.

The Christmas Eve Candle and Carol service ended with candle lighting in the darkened sanctuary, the singing of Silent Night and members wishing one another “Merry Christmas.”

Sam and Cora Jane Pope

The Fellowship and Reception committees prepared a lovely reception held after the cantata. Members and guests visited with one another and expressed gratitude to all who provided this beautiful time of inspiration and joy.