Plan Your Visit on Christmas Eve

We know meeting someone for the first time can be intimidating and going to a new church for the first time can be nerve-racking. We want to help make your first experience at First Brethren Church a great one. 

Where to Go

We're on the corner of W Clinton & 2nd St, right beside the Fire Station and just a few blocks away from Main St. Most people take the alley to park in our lot behind the church and come in the side entrance.

What to Expect

​Our Christmas Eve service are meant to carve out a special time for individuals and families of all ages to remember the gift of Jesus' birth. In total, the service is about 60 minutes in length. We will sing some Christmas songs. Song books (hymnals) will be available in the seats, and lyrics will also be projected on the screen so you can sing along. After sharing some songs and readings together, our pastor will share an encouraging message about Jesus.

What About My Kids?

We believe that kids should have always have a blast at church, but this is especially true for our Christmas Eve service. Our time together will feature children's stories, a special object lesson for kids, Christmas songs loved by all ages, and even a special bulletin designed just for them with activities to help them stay engaged during the message.

During our candle-lighting, special battery-operated candles are available for kids to protect little hands.

Communion & Candlelighting

Along with songs and stories, we include two important symbols in our Christmas Eve service - sharing communion and lighting candles. At the last supper, Jesus told his followers that every time they should remember his body and blood given for them every time they had bread and wine. We will remember the gift of Christ's nearness by sharing some bread and grape juice together in prayer.

​In the Gospel of John, we also hear Jesus described as the "light of the world" (Jn 8:12) that "shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (Jn 1:5). We will remember Jesus' light and hope by lighting candles together.

CELEBRATING AT HOME?

​We know that some will be unable to join us in-person this year for a variety of reasons, but that does not mean you have to be disconnected! You will be able to find this year's service streamed on Facebook Live that night.

Alternatively, you and/or your family can use last year's printable guide or video service (below) to lead your own special devotional time at home.