Rev. Terry Lippstreu the announced the traditional Christmas Eve service at Houston United Methodist Church is 5 p.m. on Dec. 24, instead of at 7 p.m. as it has been in past years.
This year’s service will be a “Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.” Lippstreau said the service was initially created in 1880 in an attempt to bring a more imaginative approach to Christmas Eve worship.
“The service consists of the reading of nine scripture lessons which tell of the birth of the Messiah,” he said. “Each lesson will be followed by an appropriate musical selection, either congregational singing of a carol or a special performance of other Christmas music appropriate to the readings.”
Lippstreau also said the service will include the celebration of Holy Communion, which he emphasized is open to all believers regardless of religious affiliation or lack of membership in a church. The service will conclude with a candlelighting ceremony.
On Christmas Sunday, Dec. 25, a worship service will be held as usual at 10 a.m.
“I understand that some churches will not be holding services on Christmas morning, so we wanted to be sure that the community knows that visitors are welcome to attend our worship,” Lippstreau said.
The service will include a special Christmas message, and Holy Communion will again be served.