FPC in the Star

Thanks to the Elizabethton Star for a nice write-up about our Christmas/Solstice events:

First Presbyterian sets Christmas events


The Chancel Choir of First Presbyterian Church will perform a special Christmas version of the Messiah during the morning worship service as its annual gift to the congregation on Sunday, Dec. 19.


The church family Christmas dinner will be held on Sunday at 6 p.m. The dinner will feature great food, entertainment and lots of fellowship. Session members are providing meat platters of all sorts. Attending families are asked to take a side dish to feed at least four hungry folks. Those bringing dishes to put on the vegan table are asked to list the ingredients beside the dish for clarification. Entertainment will be provided by the young folks under the leadership of Linda Sorrell and Paul Gabinet.

A yule ceremony will be held on Monday, Dec. 20, at 6:30 p.m. to honor ancestors and celebrate the Solstice. A news release states, "We will light our fire outdoors, unless the weather is really bad, in which case we will be in Martin Hall." Participants are asked to meet at the church at 6:30 p.m. to carpool to the site and dress for the weather. For more information, e-mail 1stpres-eliz [at] embarqmail [dot] com. The news release states, "This year's solstice (Dec. 21) will be especially magical as it coincides with a full moon and a total lunar eclipse later that night!"

A Tidings of Comfort Service will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 21, at 7 p.m. The news release states, "The holiday season isn't all bright and cheerful for some of us. This service is designed to let you know that it's OK to not be 'in the spirit' all the time. This beautiful and reflective service also commemorates the solstice and the transition into winter."

Members of the choir and congregation will go caroling to shut-ins on Wednesday, Dec. 22, at 6 p.m. Participants will meet at the church to get music, an itinerary, and to carpool. For more information, e-mail Deb Ilves at twinpinedeb [at] gmail [dot] com.

A Christmas Eve Service will be held on Friday, Dec. 24, at 10 p.m. The service will feature readings, music, prayer and candlelight to celebrate the birth of Christ, "as well as begin the via creativa, the Divine Creativity within."

Youth are gathering mittens, hats and other cold weather gear, as well as household items, for The Shepherd's Inn. The Tree will be in the Narthex through the holidays. Visit the Web site for a list of other items TSI can use.

The Rev. John Shuck is the pastor.

I am that. Have a Happymerrysolstikwanzamas!