The Oasis - December 16, 2020
Author: Rev. Eric Dupee
December 17, 2020
December 16, 2020
Rev. Eric Dupee
One of my fondest memories as a kid is worship on Christmas Eve. For me, there has always been something special about crowding into a house of worship, singing carols, hearing the story of the birth of Jesus, and seeing candles light up the darkness. After serving as the Senior Minister at First Parish Church for less than three months, I would like nothing more than to have that experience with the York Community.
On account of the pandemic, we will not crowd into pews and sing carols this year. However, I’m excited about our Christmas Eve offerings. There will be a family oriented virtual worship service available on the First Parish Church website and on the church Facebook page by 5:30pm. There will also be a meditative virtual worship service available by 8:00pm.
For those looking to get out and experience lights and a bit of the Christmas story on Christmas Eve, we invite you to come by and stroll the grounds of the church. Come any time. From 7:00-7:45pm and 9:00-9:45pm, there will be luminaries along walkways, a live tableau in the stable set up on the lawn, and Christmas music emanating from the steps of the church. Come wearing a mask and keeping proper distance. Enjoy the sights and sounds. You might take a family photo at the tableau. Have some time to stroll and reflect on the meaning of Christmas. God is with you wherever you are and in whatever you are experiencing.
A final note on Christmas Eve. Christmas is a time when many like to make a special financial offering to the church. We won’t be “passing the plate” in our normal worship services, but we wanted to provide that opportunity. There will be a box available on the church grounds during the 7:00-7:45pm and 9:00-9:45pm time periods on Christmas Eve to make a financial contribution towards the church’s operating budget if you so choose.
Blessings
Eric
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