The First Congregational Church of Wiscasset invites the community to a traditional Christmas Eve service with carols, reading of the birth narrative and the giving of thanks for the gift of Jesus.

The evening service will be preceded by Christmas instrumental selections from around the world provided by Jeff Grosser, Dewey Harris and Sarah Whitfield beginning at 6:20 p.m.

In the 7 p.m. service, the Christ candle on the advent wreath will be lit and a Christmas message will be given by Pastor Josh Fitterling. Charlie the church mouse will have a special Christmas message for children.

Music by the choir under the direction of organist Linda Adams will include “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly” and “Hope, Love, and Joy to the World.” A vocal and instrumental rendition of “O Holy Night” will be presented by the Whitney family. The service will end in candlelight with the singing of “Silent Night” with a solo by Laura Whitney Brewer.

A second Christmas Eve service will begin at 11:30 p.m. This is a simple service of carols, scripture and a brief Christmas meditation as we gather to ring in Christmas Day. The church bell will be rung as midnight strikes, welcoming the celebration of Christmas!

The First Congregational Church of Wiscasset, UCC, is located at 28 High Street on the Common in Wiscasset. For more information call 882-7544, email fccw@myfairpoint.net or www.uccwiscasset.org